Life of cinephile: Inspiring story of Malayali director who makes snacks for a living

Pratheesh’s journey into the world of cinema is a story of passion, perseverance, and resilience. Originally from a farming family in Chembakappara, Kattappana, he dreamed of a career in movies. However, his path to realising that dream was anything but smooth. Today, Pratheesh is living in Thodupuzha, working in a hotel making snacks for a living, but his heart remains firmly set on filmmaking.

At 16, after completing his 10th standard, Pratheesh moved to Tamil Nadu in search of work and to pursue his passion for cinema. He arrived at the MGR Central Railway Station in Chennai and immediately made his way to Kodambakkam, the heart of the Tamil film industry. Standing in front of the famous AVM studio, Pratheesh approached a security guard, asking if there was any chance for him to enter the film industry. The response was disappointing: he was advised to seek work in a hotel.

Struggling with hunger and finding work

With limited options and unable to endure hunger, Pratheesh took up a job in a hotel. It was here that he learned the skills of cooking. Even while working in the kitchen, his love for cinema never faded. He continued to chase his dream, interacting with filmmakers who visited the hotel and often asking for opportunities. Pratheesh worked in various roles, including as a unit boy, water boy, and junior artist, slowly immersing himself in the world of cinema.

He spent over four years in Kodambakkam, but with no breakthrough in films, Pratheesh returned home to his parents when they faced health issues. Despite the challenges, his dream of filmmaking stayed alive. 

Making short films and building a career in cinema

In 2017, Pratheesh took a bold step and directed his first short film, Thenmari, with the help of friends. The project was co-produced, and the funds for it were raised from his income working in the hotel. This marked the beginning of his journey as a filmmaker. Since then, he has directed several other short films, including Nerinte Vazhi, Attention Parents, Ammayum Abelum, Bad House, Sneha Bhavanam, and music albums like Thirumunpil, Kattupol Oru Pranayam, and Ithu Njangalude Balyam. All of these works were released on YouTube.

Pratheesh has also written scripts for some of his projects. Now, with several short films and music albums to his credit, Pratheesh is working on his biggest dream: to direct a full-length feature film. 

Pratheesh now lives in Karimannoor with his wife, Manju, and their children Pranav, Parvathy, and Parthip.