Basic Information
Name - Thomas Burleigh Kurishingal
Nationality - Indian
Born - 1 September 1932, Fort Kochi, Kochi
Died - 16 December 2024 (age 92 years)
Children - Taniya Berly, Tamina Berly, Tarun Berly
Parents - Annie Berly, Kurishingal K. J. Berly
Biography
Thomas Berly Kurishingal was born on September 1, 1932, in Fort Cochin, Madras Presidency, during British India. He came from a family deeply involved in India바카라™s independence movement. His father, Kurishingal K. J. Burleigh, was an activist, and his mother, Annie Burleigh, led protests, including a notable satyagraha against toddy shops in Fort Cochin.
Berly바카라™s journey into the world of cinema began at an early age. In 1953, at just 21 years old, he made his debut in the Malayalam film Thiramala, becoming one of the youngest heroes in the industry. Keen to hone his craft, Berly later pursued an acting course at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). During his time in the United States, he acted in small roles in a few English movies and television series. One of his notable appearances was in the Hollywood film Never So Few (1959). He also produced an English children바카라™s movie, Maya.
Berly had a wide range of interests beyond acting. He was skilled in magic, playing the violin, and creating Madeleine instrumental music. He was also a talented painter, and his artwork Galiyan was showcased at international festivals.
In 1969, Berly returned to India and ventured into the seafood export business, establishing himself as a successful entrepreneur. His passion for cinema, however, remained undiminished. In 1973, he directed the film Ithu Manushyano?, which featured the popular song Sughamoru Bindu Dukhamoru Bindu. More than a decade later, in 1985, he directed another film, Vellarikkaappattanam, starring the legendary actor Prem Nazir.
Career Timeline
As an Actor
1953: Thiramaala 바카라“ Made his debut in the Malayalam film industry as a young hero at the age of 21.
2015: Double Barrel 바카라“ Appeared in this Malayalam movie, marking a unique span in his acting career.
As a Director
1973: Ithu Manushyano? 바카라“ Directed this film featuring the popular song Sughamoru Bindu Dukhamoru Bindu.
1985: Vellarikkaappattanam 바카라“ Directed this movie starring Prem Nazir.
Story Writer
1973: Ithu Manushyano? 바카라“ Provided the story for the film.
1985: Vellarikkaappattanam 바카라“ Contributed the storyline for this movie.
Screenplay Writer
1973: Ithu Manushyano? 바카라“ Wrote the screenplay.
1985: Vellarikkaappattanam 바카라“ Penned the screenplay for the film.
Producer
1973: Ithu Manushyano? 바카라“ Produced this cinematic venture.
1985: Vellarikkaappattanam 바카라“ Took on the role of producer.
Dialogue Writer
1973: Ithu Manushyano? 바카라“ Wrote dialogues for the movie.
Music Contributions
1985: Vellarikkaappattanam 바카라“ Contributed to the lyrics and music for the following songs:
"Mangalangal"
"Romaancham Poothirangum"
"Hemantha Kalam"
Multimedia
Gallery
Videos/Interviews:
Fun Facts/Trivia
Despite his global recognition, he remains grounded and continues to teach English literature at a local college in Kottayam. His passion for education reflects his humble nature and commitment to sharing knowledge. Additionally, he is fluent in five languages: English, Malayalam, Hindi, Tamil, and French, showcasing his remarkable linguistic abilities and cultural versatility.
Impact/Legacy
Thomas Berly Kurishingal바카라™s legacy is one of versatility, creativity, and cultural contribution. As a pioneering figure in the Malayalam film industry, he broke new ground as a young hero and later showcased his talents as a director, writer, and producer, leaving behind timeless works like Ithu Manushyano? and Vellarikkaappattanam. Beyond cinema, Berly's ventures into painting, music, and entrepreneurship reflect his multifaceted personality and enduring curiosity. His art, including the internationally celebrated painting Galiyan, and his foray into Hollywood demonstrated his global outlook, while his writings, such as Beyond Heart and Sacred Savage, cemented his role as a literary figure. Berly's contributions to the arts, coupled with his diverse interests, have inspired future generations to embrace creativity and passion across multiple disciplines, making his impact resonate far beyond the realms of cinema and art.
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