Mumbai: The Indian film industry mourns the loss of Gangu Ramsay, the veteran cinematographer, filmmaker, and producer renowned for his contributions to the horror genre, who passed away on Sunday at the age of 83.
Gangu Ramsay, along with his brothers, formed the Ramsay Brothers, a banner that left an indelible mark on Indian cinema with iconic films such as ‘Veerana’, ‘Purana Mandir’, ‘Bandh Darwaza’, ‘Tahkhana’, and ‘Purani Haveli’. Their collective efforts shaped the contours of the horror genre in India, captivating audiences with spine-chilling narratives and innovative storytelling.
The journey of the Ramsay Brothers began with Fatehchand U. Ramsay, Gangu Ramsay’s father, who ventured into the world of filmmaking after modest beginnings in Mumbai. Fatehchand, along with his sons, transitioned from running a small electronics shop to producing films, with their initial ventures facing mixed success. However, it was the film ‘Ek Nanhi Munni Ladki Thi’ that sparked their interest in the horror genre, setting the stage for their future endeavors.
The Ramsay Brothers’ breakthrough came with the film ‘Do Gaz Zameen Ke Neeche’, a low-budget horror flick that defied industry norms and garnered widespread acclaim. By employing cost-effective production techniques and leveraging the creative talents within their family, the Ramsays revolutionized the horror genre in India, producing over 30 films that captivated audiences across the nation.
Central to their success was Gangu Ramsay’s innovative use of makeup and camera tricks, which brought their spine-chilling narratives to life on the silver screen.
Despite the challenges posed by a struggling film industry in the 1980s, marked by piracy and economic downturns, the Ramsay Brothers persevered, leaving an indelible legacy that continues to inspire generations of filmmakers. Their contributions not only popularized the horror genre but also provided a beacon of hope for an industry in transition.
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