Born in Payyanur, Kerala, K. U. Mohanan has worked as a cinematographer for almost three decades, with his debut movie being Aadhi Haqeeqat, Aadha Fasana in 1990. His notable projects include popular Bollywood films like Don (2006), Aaja Nachle, We Are Family, Talaash, and Fukrey. He also worked as the cinematographer for the 2017 films Raees and Jab Harry Met Sejal. His 2018 releases include Carbon, Andhadhun and Randamoozham.