THE CINEMATOGRAPHIC VISION OF K. K. MAHAJAN: A STUDY OF VISUAL EXPERIMENTATION IN INDIAN PARALLEL CINEMA

Abstract

K. K. Mahajan is regarded as one of the most influential cinematographers in the history of Indian cinema. His work played a crucial role in shaping the visual language of the Indian Parallel Cinema movement. Through innovative camera techniques, naturalistic imagery, and experimentation with cinematic form, Mahajan transformed cinematography into a powerful tool of artistic expression. This research paper examines Mahajan’s contribution to Indian cinema through an analysis of selected films and collaborations with major filmmakers such as Mrinal Sen, Mani Kaul, and Kumar Shahani. The study explores how his cinematography contributed to realism, formal experimentation, and the emergence of a new cinematic language in India.

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