R.I.P: Salman Khan Starrer Bodyguard Film's Director Siddique Passes Away; Dulquer Salmaan And Others Express Grief (Details Inside)

Renowned filmmaker Siddique Ismail breathed his last on Tuesday in Kochi, following a battle with liver ailment that led to his hospitalization at Amrita Hospital in Kochi last month. The news of his demise comes after he suffered a heart attack on Monday afternoon and was subsequently put on Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) support. Despite medical interventions, Siddique passed away on Tuesday night while receiving treatment.

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The mortal remains of Siddique Ismail will be on display at Kadavanthra’s Rajiv Gandhi Indoor Stadium from 9 am to 11:30 am, and later at his residence to allow people to pay their final respects. The funeral is scheduled for 6 pm on Wednesday.

A luminary in the realm of Malayalam cinema, Siddique embarked on his cinematic journey by assisting the legendary filmmaker Fazil. He and his companion Lal were scouted by Fazil during their performances with the Cochin Kalabhavan’s mimicry troupe.

Their collaborative directorial debut as the ‘Siddique-Lal’ duo was the timeless comedy ‘Ramji Rao Speaking’ (1989), which was backed by Fazil. This marked the start of an extraordinary streak of successes in Malayalam cinema, including timeless classics like ‘In Harihar Nagar’ (1990), ‘Godfather’ (1991), ‘Vietnam Colony’ (1992), ‘Kabooliwala’ (1993), and ‘Hitler’ (1996).

The films created by Siddique and Lal were known for featuring relatable characters, thereby setting an innovative standard for contemporary comedy, even though their collaboration spanned a mere six movies.

Among Siddique Ismail’s individual directorial endeavors, notable ones include ‘Hitler’, ‘Friends’, ‘Chronic Bachelor’, and ‘Bodyguard’. He was at the helm of the Hindi remake of ‘Bodyguard’, with Salman Khan in the lead role. In the Tamil version, also directed by Siddique, titled ‘Kavalan’, Vijay played the protagonist.

Siddique's ultimate directorial work was the 2020 action thriller ‘Big Brother’, starring Mohanlal, Arbaaz Khan, Anoop Menon, and Honey Rose in pivotal roles.

Celebrities in Kerala expressed their condolences on social media over the filmmaker's passing. Dulquer Salmaan wrote on Instagram, “The gentlest soul. The kindest human. A gifted writer/director. The most incredible humor hiding behind his soft demeanour. He gave us some of the most iconic films. Part of our pop culture and referred to in our everyday conversations. This is an immeasurable loss. Prayers and strength to Siddique Sirs family and loved ones.”

Basil Joseph posted on Instagram, “Thank you for the endless moments of happiness you’ve gifted us. Rest in peace sir. #LegendOfLaughter”

Kunchako Boban shared on Instagram, “Bidding adieu to…The Godfather of Humour!!……Siddique Ikka…..We lost one of the greatest Hitmakers and moreover a genuine Human being. The love and respect that he has given for my family be cherished forever. Prayers for his soul and joining the family for their loss.”

While Manju Warrier took to Instagram and wrote, “The moments of laughter you’ve gifted us will always remain. Adieu to one of my favourites! #RIP,” Indrajith shared, “Thank you for the innumerable laughs and onscreen moments. One of the gentlest souls I have ever known. You will be missed. RIP Siddique Sir! “

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Survived by his wife Sajitha and their three children Sumaya, Sara, and Sukoon, Siddique Ismail leaves behind a rich legacy that has deeply influenced the landscape of Malayalam cinema.