A promising cricket career cut short by a devastating eye injury paved the way for an unexpected journey into the world of cinema for [Director's Name], who recently received the National Award for Best Director.

[Director's Name]'s initial ambition was to represent his country on the cricket field. From his school days into his college years, he excelled at the sport, even captaining his institute's team. He played at the state level and was considered an expert in the game. However, fate had other plans. During his college days, a near-fatal incident occurred, leaving him with permanent damage to his left eye. "Once, while playing, I lost my eye," he recounted in a 2012 interview with the Times of India. "I gave it up then".

The injury forced him to abandon his dream of becoming a professional cricketer. While the loss was initially devastating, [Director's Name] found a new path. With friends like Mohanlal and Suresh Kumar, he embarked on a journey into cinema, debuting in the film "Thiranottam" (1978).

Reflecting on the unexpected turn his life took, [Director's Name] expressed gratitude for the way things unfolded. "Guess whatever happens, happens for good, for I became a filmmaker," he stated. "Had I been a cricketer, today I would have retired and be working in a bank". He harbors no regrets about his career shift, remaining an avid cricket lover and ensuring cricket equipment is always available on his film sets for the cast and crew to enjoy during breaks.

[Director's Name] has become one of the most successful and accomplished directors in Malayalam cinema. His work extends beyond his home turf, with significant contributions to Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu film industries. Over a career spanning more than four decades, he has directed numerous blockbusters, with many of his films regarded as timeless comedies.

In September 2024, [Director's Name] had an emotional encounter with former fast bowler Haneef Mohammed, whose delivery caused his eye injury decades prior.

[Director's Name]'s story is a testament to resilience and adaptability, demonstrating how unforeseen circumstances can lead to extraordinary achievements in unexpected fields. From aspiring cricketer to National Award-winning director, his journey is an inspiration to chase dreams, even when the path takes an unforeseen turn.