Shafi breathed his last at 12.25 am, according to reports. Actor Vishnu Unnikrishnan shared the news of Shafi's passing on Facebook, writing, "Shafi sir has departed, leaving behind laughter and unforgettable stories that will be cherished forever. Tributes!!" Shafi began his film career as an assistant director under the noted filmmaker Rajasenan. Popular Malayalam director Shafi, known for comedy hits, passed away aged 56 after emergency brain surgery. Shafi directed 18 movies and started as an Reports indicate that Malayalam director Shafi is in critical condition and undergoing treatment in Kochi due to internal bleeding. He was admitted to the hospital on January 16 and is being ... Filmmaker Shafi, known for bringing laughter to Malayali audiences through his popular films, died at a private hospital in Kochi past midnight on Saturday. He was 56. Malayalam filmmaker Shafi dies.