Shaji N. Karun is an Indian film director and cinematographer known for his exceptional contributions to Malayalam cinema. He was born on January 1, 1952, in the Kollam district of Kerala, India. He completed his schooling in Palkulangara H.S. and obtained his bachelor's degree from University College, Thiruvananthapuram.

Shaji N. Karun pursued his passion for filmmaking by attending the Film and Television Institute of India, where he earned a diploma in cinematography. His diploma film, "Genesis" (1974), directed by Rahul Dasgupta, garnered several awards and marked the beginning of his career. He achieved a gold medal upon graduation in 1974.

After completing his education, Shaji N. Karun worked on a contract basis for institutions such as ISRO Ahmedabad, Mumbai TV, and the Madras Film Industry. In 1975, he played a vital role in the establishment of the Kerala State Film Development Corporation (KSFDC), working alongside the founder Chairman P R S Pillai and Managing Director G. Vivekanandan. Their efforts aimed to revitalize the film industry in Kerala, which was previously centered in Madras (now Chennai).

Shaji N. Karun's involvement with KSFDC and renowned Malayalam filmmakers led to significant achievements and contributions to the Malayalam cinema industry on a national and international level. In 1998, he became the chairman of the Kerala State Chalachitra Academy, the first academy for film and television in India. During his tenure, he initiated the International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK) as a competitive festival, and it was recognized by the FIAPF (International Federation of Film Producers Associations).

Shaji N. Karun's directorial debut film, "Piravi" (1988), received critical acclaim and won the Caméra d'Or - Mention d'honneur at the 1989 Cannes Film Festival. He has directed several award-winning films, including "Swaham" (1994), "Vanaprastham" (1999), and "Kutty Srank" (2009). His debut film "Piravi" also earned him the National Award for Best Director.

In his personal life, Shaji N. Karun is married to Anasuya Warrier, the daughter of Dr. P. K. R. Warrier. They have two sons named Anil and Appu. Throughout his career, he has collaborated with notable filmmakers such as G. Aravindan, K. G. George, and M. T. Vasudevan Nair as a cinematographer.

Shaji N. Karun's contributions to the film industry extend beyond his filmmaking career. He has served in advisory capacities for the Government of India and Kerala, participating in policy decisions. His advisory role in the 20th International Film Festival of Kerala in 2015 was widely regarded as one of the best editions of the festival. In August 2018, he was appointed as the 8th President of Purogamana Kala Sahitya Sangham (Progressive Arts & Literary Organization), an association for art and literature.

On May 31, 2019, Shaji N. Karun was appointed as the Chairman of the Kerala State Film Development Corporation. He assumed the position on June 17, 2019. More information about his work and career can be found on his personal website