Malayalam film director Nisar, known for making mainstream movies on small budgets, died on Monday while undergoing treatment in Changanassery, industry sources said. He was 65.

Born in Thrikkodithanam near Changanassery, Nisar made his debut in 1994 with the hit film Sudinam. Over the next two decades, he directed 27 films in Malayalam and Tamil. His last release was `Laughing Apartment Near Girinagar` in 2018.

The directors` union FEFKA paid tribute, saying Nisar stood out for finishing films quickly without compromising on quality.