Origins & Early Life

Tunde Kelani (born February 26, 1946), popularly known as TK, is a Nigerian filmmaker. In a career spanning more than four decades, TK specialises in producing movies that promote Nigeria's cultural heritage, particularly that of the Yoruba. He is also known for his screen adaptations of Nigerian novels and plays. These include Koseegbe, O le ku, Thunder Bolt: Magun, The Narrow Path, White Handkerchief, Maami and Dazzling Mirage.

Pivotal Works & Achievements

Tunde Kelani was born in Lagos. At the age of five, he was sent to live with his grandparents at Abeokuta in Ogun State. He attended the Oke-Ona Primary School in Ikija, Abeokuta, and Abeokuta Grammar School for his secondary education. His grandfather was a chief, the Balogun of Ijaiye Kukudi, one who provided the young Kelani a deep exposure to Yoruba literature, religion, philosophy and arts. He was especially influenced by Yoruba theatre and in secondary school saw many Yoruba classics, including The Palm-Wine Drinkard, Oba Koso, Kurunmi, and works by the playwright Herbert Ogunde.

Enduring Legacy & Impact

From his early student days he was also interested in photography and became an apprentice photographer after completing secondary school. He then trained at...

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