Awards and Recognitions 2022 South Indian International Movie Awards – Vellam – Best Music Director 2018 Kerala State Film Awards – Aami – Best Background Music 2017 Filmfare Awards South – Maheshinte Prathikaaram – Best Music Director – Malayalam Mirchi Music Awards South – Maheshinte Prathikaaram – Best Music Director Mirchi Music Awards South – Maheshinte Prathikaaram – Best Technical Sound Mixer Mirchi Music Awards South – Maheshinte Prathikaaram – Song of the Year Mirchi Music Awards South – Maheshinte Prathikaaram – Best Vocalist Male Malayalam South Indian International Movie Awards – Maheshinte Prathikaaram – Best Music Director North American Film Awards – Maheshinte Prathikaaram – Best Music Director 2015 Kerala State Film Award – Pathemari, Nee-Na – Best Background Music Asiavision Awards – Pathemari / Kaliyachan – Best Music Director 2014 Kerala State Film Award – Njaan – Best Background Music 2013 Kerala State Film Award – Balyakalasakhi – Best Background Score 2012 National Film Award – Kaliyachan – Best Background Score Kerala State Film Award – Kaliyachan, Ozhimuri – Best Background Score 2011 Asiavision Awards – Salt N' Pepper – Best Music Director 2007 Mullassery Raju Music Award – Arabikkatha – Best Music Director
Bijibal – Music Director, Composer & Playback Singer Bijibal Maniyil, widely known as Bijibal, is one of the most respected and innovative music directors in the Malayalam film industry. Born and raised in Kochi, Kerala, he has established himself as a leading composer known for his fresh soundscapes, emotional depth, and ability to blend classical and contemporary musical elements seamlessly. Early Career Bijibal’s journey into the world of music began through his deep interest in composing and experimenting with new musical forms. Although he had no formal training in classical music initially, his passion and natural talent paved the way for a distinctive musical identity. His entry into the Malayalam film industry came in 2007 with the film “Arabikkatha”, directed by Lal Jose. The soundtrack was an instant hit, marking the arrival of a composer with a unique voice and sensitivity to storytelling through music. Film Career and Notable Works Since his debut, Bijibal has composed music for more than 100 films, creating memorable scores that have become integral to Malayalam cinema’s modern sound. Some of his notable works include: “Arabikkatha” (2007) – Debut film that earned him widespread recognition. “Salt N’ Pepper” (2011) – A musical milestone that brought freshness and urban rhythm to Malayalam film music. “Celluloid” (2013) – The biopic of J.C. Daniel, which won Bijibal the National Film Award for Best Background Score and the Kerala State Film Award. “Kammatipaadam” (2016) – A powerful and haunting background score. “Vellimoonga” (2014), “Maheshinte Prathikaram” (2016), “Thondimuthalum Driksakshiyum” (2017), and “Kumbalangi Nights” (2019) (title theme contribution) are other remarkable works that showcase his versatility. Bijibal’s compositions often combine traditional Kerala folk elements with orchestral and electronic arrangements, creating soundtracks that are emotionally rich and culturally rooted. Awards and Recognition Bijibal has received several awards and honors for his exceptional contributions to Indian cinema: National Film Award (2013) – Best Background Score for Celluloid. Kerala State Film Awards – Multiple wins, including Best Music Director and Best Background Score. Numerous other awards from film critics and associations recognizing his consistent quality and creative approach. Beyond Cinema Apart from films, Bijibal has composed music for documentaries, short films, independent albums, and television projects. His work in documentary films such as “Parethante Paribhavangal” (which won a Kerala State Award) highlights his ability to express deep emotion and realism through minimalistic compositions. He has also created devotional albums, social campaigns, and stage music projects that have received wide appreciation for their originality and depth. In addition, Bijibal occasionally lends his voice as a playback singer, delivering heartfelt renditions that connect instantly with audiences. Musical Style and Legacy Bijibal’s music is characterized by its lyrical simplicity, emotional purity, and deep connection with Kerala’s cultural roots. Whether it’s a soulful melody, a humorous folk tune, or an intense background score, his compositions always enhance the narrative essence of the project. Over the years, Bijibal has emerged not just as a composer, but as a musical storyteller who continues to inspire a new generation of musicians and filmmakers in India.
Typical Work & Skills
Film scoring and background music: He crafts thematic scores that align with the emotional tone of the film—whether dramatic, comedic, or suspenseful.
Song composition and playback singing: He writes and records songs for films (usually Malayalam) and sometimes sings them himself or directs the vocal performance.
Instrumental performance and production: He uses his knowledge of keyboard and violin to shape the texture of his music; he also oversees production elements (arrangements, mixing) to deliver finished scores.
Cross‐media adaptation: Beyond films, he composes for commercials, short films, and other media formats—indicating flexibility and the ability to work across different formats and durations.
Collaboration & creative leadership: As a lead composer in film projects, he coordinates with directors, producers, sound teams, singers, and musicians—to meet creative vision and deadlines.
