(This article is authored by Alar)

The Malayalam film industry lost one of its most talented and versatile directors on Tuesday night, when Siddique passed away at the age of 63. He was undergoing treatment for chronic liver disease and bronchopneumonia at Amrita Hospital in Kochi, where he suffered a massive heart attack and multiorgan failure. He is survived by his wife Sajitha and three daughters.

Siddique was best known for his comedy films, which he often co-directed with his friend and actor Lal. The duo, popularly known as Siddique-Lal, created some of the most memorable and hilarious movies in Malayalam cinema, such as Ramji Rao Speaking, In Harihar Nagar, Vietnam Colony, and Kabooliwala. They also introduced many new faces to the industry, including Mohanlal, Sreenivasan, Mukesh, Jagadish, and Asokan.

Siddique also proved his mettle as a solo director, with blockbuster hits like Hitler, Friends, Chronic Bachelor, and Bodyguard. He ventured into other languages as well, remaking his own films in Hindi and Tamil. His Hindi version of Bodyguard, starring Salman Khan and Kareena Kapoor Khan, was a huge success at the box office. His Tamil film Kavalan, featuring Vijay and Asin, also received positive reviews from the audience.

Siddique’s death has left a huge void in the film fraternity, as well as among his fans and admirers. Many celebrities and dignitaries have expressed their grief and condolences on social media and other platforms. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan praised Siddique’s unique ability to blend serious life issues with humour.

Siddique’s mortal remains were kept at Kadavanthra Rajiv Gandhi Indoor Stadium on Wednesday for public homage. Later, they were taken to his residence in Kochi. He was laid to rest at Ernakulam Central Juma Masjid at 6:30 pm on Wednesday. His funeral was attended by his family members, friends, colleagues, and well-wishers. He will be dearly missed by all who knew him and loved his work.