KOCHI: Thomas Berly, a multifaceted personality in South Indian cinema and Hollywood, passed away on Monday at the age of 92. He was an actor, director, producer, writer, illustrator, artist, and musician, leaving behind a rich legacy in various creative fields.

Born on September 1, 1932, in Fort Kochi to Kurishingal K.J. Berly and his wife, Thomas embarked on his cinematic journey in 1953 with his debut film Thiramala. Despite taking on significant roles in several films, his early career did not see much commercial success. Determined to make a mark, Thomas moved to Hollywood to explore new opportunities.

Success in Hollywood and Television

After studying Applied Arts at the University of California, Thomas appeared in Hollywood films such as Never So Few (1959), starring Frank Sinatra. He also featured in several cowboy films, including Wanted Dead or Alive, Have Gun, Will Travel, and Gunsmoke.

He wrote the screenplay for Maya and the Elephant, later adapted into the children’s film Maya (English), which was shot at Mehboob Studios in Mumbai.

Return to India 

In 1969, Thomas returned to Mumbai to start a small business with Bollywood actor Dilip Kumar’s brother Aslam Khan. During this period, he began illustrating cartoons for magazines such as Illustrated Weekly, Shankar’s Weekly, and Current.

Thomas wrote and directed Ithu Manushyano (1973) and Vellarikkaappattanam (1983). He also produced these films, further establishing himself as a key figure in the Malayalam film industry.

As an author, he published Beyond Heart (2000), Fragrant Petals (2004), and the cartoon series O Kerala (2007).

After a long hiatus, he made a comeback to acting in Lijo Jose Pellissery’s Double Barrel.