Cinematography
Madhu Ambat is an Indian cinematographer with a career spanning over 40 years. He is widely regarded as one of the most prolific cinematographers in Indian cinema. Ambat is known for his exceptional work in films such as "Amaram," "Anjali," and "Makaramanju." He currently resides in Chennai, Tamil Nadu.
Born on March 6, 1949, in Ernakulam, Madhu Ambat is the grandson of Ambat Sivarama Menon. He graduated from the Film Institute of India in Poona in 1973, where he received a gold medal. His father, K. Bhagyanath, a former Professor of English, chose to pursue a career as a full-time magician. Bhagyanath was also an amateur photographer, and he and his wife, Sulochana, believed in following one's passion. Despite initial opposition from relatives, Ambat's parents supported his decision to join the Film Institute, and he proved himself by winning a gold medal. This laid the foundation for his career in cinematography. Ambat has worked as a cinematographer on over 250 films.
Madhu Ambat is a three-time winner of the National Film Award for Best Cinematography. He is a member of the Indian Society of Cinematographers (ISC). Apart from his work in the film industry, Ambat heads the Fantasia Centre for Research and Development of Cinema, a non-profit organization focused on promoting research in cinema and cultivating a film culture.
In 2003, Ambat made his directorial debut with the film "1:1.6 An Ode to Lost Love." Throughout his illustrious career, he has received numerous awards and accolades for his contributions to cinematography.