M. Aravind Kumar, popularly known as “DroneMan”, is one of the leading drone cinematographers in the Tamil film industry, renowned for capturing breathtaking aerial visuals. With over a decade of experience, he has worked on more than 300 films, including Jananayagan, Beast, Indian 2, LIK, Vettaiyan, Bison, Viduthalai, and the Telugu film Ranabali.
Known for delivering visually stunning aerial sequences tailored to each film’s narrative, Aravind also provides high-quality drone stock footage for feature films. His innovative work has earned him a distinct identity in the industry as “DroneMan.”
A former student of Loyola College, Aravind was also a Fellow at the South Asian Media School, Lahore, Pakistan. Inspired to share his knowledge with the next generation, he founded DroneMan Academy under ZOO Studios India, where he trains aspiring professionals by emphasizing that drones are not just camera tools, but an integral part of future technology.
Between 2014 and 2017, Aravind worked as the official photographer for several Indian associations in the United States. It was during this period that he developed a deep interest in drone flying. In 2017, encouraged by acclaimed cinematographer Nirav Shah, he began his professional journey as a drone cinematographer in the Tamil film industry.
Over the years, Aravind has conducted drone training programs across schools, colleges, and technology institutions throughout Tamil Nadu. In collaboration with organizations such as EDII MediaDrone, he has provided practical training and inspired hundreds of students to pursue research and innovation in drone technology. Many of his trainees are now working in the film industry as well as in drone research and technology companies.
Beyond training, Aravind has established a state-of-the-art Drone Research Lab in Vandalur, Chennai, enabling students to learn drone design, programming, testing, and AI-based drone applications through hands-on experience. His efforts continue to bridge the gap between education and industry by preparing students with job-ready skills.
Students mentored by Aravind recently won double Silver medals at the first National NIDAR Drone Competition 2025–26. Rather than viewing it as a personal achievement, he considers the victory a recognition of the talent of Tamil Nadu’s youth. Demonstrating his commitment to education, he has decided to reinvest the prize money into the development of the DroneMan Academy laboratory.
From starting his career as a drone cameraman to building one of Tamil Nadu’s leading drone training academies for cinematographers and aspiring drone professionals, M. Aravind Kumar has made a lasting impact on both the film industry and technical education. His dedication to transforming his experience into opportunities for the next generation has made him a respected mentor and innovator.
Recently, DroneMan Academy received a prestigious recognition from the Drone Federation of India, and the achievement was also appreciated by the Government of Tamil Nadu. Looking ahead, the academy is preparing to represent 10 engineering college teams from Tamil Nadu in the upcoming India’s NIDAR 2.0 Drone Competition, continuing its mission of nurturing the next generation of drone innovators.