- By Aanchal Sharma
- Mon, 27 Feb 2023 10:09 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
Malayalam film director Joseph Manu James passed away on February 24 after undergoing treatment for hepatitis for several days. The filmmaker was 41.
The news comes just days before the release of Joseph Manu James debut directorial film, Nancy Rani. The filmmaker was a child actor in the industry and worked in the 2004 film, I Am Curious, which was directed by Sabu James.
Manu James worked as an assistant director in several Malayalam, Kannada, and Hindi films. The filmmaker’s last rites were held on February 26 in Ernakulam, Kerala.
Actor Ahaana Krishna, who plays the lead role in Manu James’ film Nancy Rani, took to her social media account to mourn the demise of the filmmaker. Taking to her Instagram story, the actor wrote, “Rest in peace Manu! This shouldn't have happened to you!”
Aju Varghese, who also stars in Nancy Rani, took to his social media account and wrote, “Gone too soon brother.”
Joseph Manu James is survived by his wife Naina, and siblings Minna and Philip.
An official statement by the family of Joseph Manu James on Facebook mourned the untimely demise of the Mollywood filmmaker. The post read, Words can't express how saddened and devastated we are to hear the unexpected death of our dear Manu ♥️ Manu.. Your Dream movie ‘Nancy Rani’ location memories and happy times we had together can never be replaced.”
“Our hearts breaking for you…May your soul RIP🙏 My thoughts and prayers with grieving family n friends 🙏🙏 Joseph Manu James🙏🙏 #nancyrani,” the Facebook post continued. The family also posted several pictured of Manu James from the sets of his film Nancy Rani.
Nancy Rani went into pre-production in the year 2020 and stars Lal, Sreenivasan, Ahaana Krishna, Sunny Wayne, Aju Varghese, Arjun Ashokan, and Leena in pivotal roles. The film was still in production and the release date of the film is just days away.
