Renowned cinematographer Gnana Shekar V S has been inducted into the Indian Society of Cinematographers (ISC), one of the most prestigious and selective organisations in Indian cinema. This recognition places him in the company of the finest cinematographers in the country, underscoring his exceptional contribution to the art of filmmaking.
Gnana Shekar’s career is marked by his remarkable ability to blend fine arts and filmmaking. Though his first love was painting, he transitioned into cinematography with Vedam, which earned praise for its realistic filmmaking and immersive visuals. In his illustrious career, he has displayed a deep understanding of colour, light, space, through a realistic, artistically expressive style.
While the anthology Vedam had him pay a homage to the French new wave era, bringing in Godard-ian influences and a touch of rusticity in the setting, Kanche, a war drama helped him explore uncharted terrains through a distinctive, classy visual palette, capturing scenes from the World War II with the authenticity of an insider.
If Gautamiputra Satakarni, transporting viewers to the glory and the pomp of the Satavahana dynasty, mirrored the classicality of Italian art, Antariksham 9000 KMPH was a masterclass in creating a visually stunning and emotionally resonant film, raising the bar for technical finesse in Telugu cinema.
Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi, also a historical saga, was no less an achievement for the cinematographer, whose technical artistry uplifted the bravura and the intensity of Jhansi Laxmi Bai’s heroics on the screen.
IB71, a spy thriller, is also widely noted for its pathbreaking visuals, which had an immersive and atmospheric quality, where the cinematographer meticulously recreated the 1971 era. This visual style created a sense of mystery and intrigue, drawing the audience deeper into the world of espionage.
Gnana Shekar also received rave reviews for his documentary Chronicles of a Temple Painter (2014), which won top honours at the IDSFFK (International Documentary and Short Film Festival,Kerala)
With a firm commitment to both his craft, Gnana Shekar V. S. continues to push boundaries, inspiring filmmakers and artists alike. His work, both behind the camera and on the canvas, reflects his dedication to visual storytelling.
Gnana Shekar’s journey from a curious child fascinated by art to an acclaimed cinematographer is a story of passion, dedication, and creative excellence. As a visual storyteller, he hasn’t only stayed true to the vision of his creators, but has also lent an interpretative quality to his frames in an illustrious career spanning over a decade and a half.
His induction into the ISC is a well-deserved recognition that cements his place among the revered cinematographers who’re shaping the future of Indian cinema.
Expressing his happiness on the recognition, the revered technician shares, “I’m very humbled to be inducted into a prestigious forum like the Indian Society of Cinematographers (ISC). I see this honour as a token of responsibility to uphold its standards and will strive to push the bar in visual storytelling in Indian cinema in the times to come. I genuinely thank all the filmmakers, my team who’ve played an integral part of my journey in cinema.”