'Bodyguard' director Siddique Ismail dies after cardiac arrest

Ace Malayalam director Siddique Ismail died due to cardiac arrest in Kochi on August 8.

The director who was in his late 60s was hospitalised in July following a liver ailment. Siddique experienced a heart attack and was subsequently placed on Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) support.

Siddique's remains will be kept at the stadium and later at his residence for people to pay homage before his last rites are held. His funeral will be held at 6 pm on August 9.

Siddique made his entry into the film industry by assisting the legendary filmmaker Fazil. He and his friend Lal were spotted by Fazil during their performances with the Cochin Kalabhavan’s mimicry troupe. Starting their directorial journey as the ‘Siddique-Lal’ duo, they marked their debut with the timeless comedy ‘Ramji Rao Speaking’ (1989), which was funded by Fazil.

Siddique directed iconic films like ‘In Harihar Nagar’ (1990), ‘Godfather’ (1991), ‘Vietnam Colony’ (1992), ‘Kabooliwala’ (1993), and ‘Hitler’ (1996).

Some of Siddique Ismail’s popular solo directorials include ‘Hitler’, ‘Friends’, ‘Chronic Bachelor’, and ‘Bodyguard’. He also directed the Hindi remake of ‘Bodyguard’, starring Salman Khan.

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

Celebrities in Kerala took to social media to mourn the demise of the filmmaker. 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 took to Instagram and wrote, ‘Thank you for the endless moments of happiness you’ve gifted us. Rest in peace sir. #LegendOfLaughter.

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