Kamal Haasan fondly recalls friendship with late director Bharathiraja on latter's birthday
Chennai, July 17
Actor, producer and parliamentarian Kamal Haasan has penned an emotional post recalling his friendship with one of Tamil cinema's iconic directors Bharathirajaa on the occasion of the latter's birthday on Friday.
Taking to his X timeline, Kamal Haasan, who has worked with Bharathirajaa on a number of films, wrote in Tamil,"Indru nam piranthanaal Vaazhthukalai yaerka anbu nanbar Bharathirajaa nammidaiyae illaiyenninum, avar padaipukkal irrukindrana. Avar paratiya natpai en nenjam negizhndu ninaivukoorugiradhu. (Today, our dear friend Bharathirajaa is not among us to accept our birthday wishes. However, his creations are there. My heart fondly remembers our friendship which he celebrated.)"
For the unaware, legendary director Bharthiraja passed away on June 10 this year, a month before his birthday on July 17.
The Padma Shri Award winner, who was considered to be a trendsetter in Tamil and Indian cinema, had been battling health issues for sometime.
Known for showcasing the rural Tamil lifestyle with flair on screen with his movies, many of which dealt with societal problems, Bharathirajaa, whose opening lines 'En Iniya Tamil Makkale...' are popular in Tamil Nadu to this day, was known for his brilliant direction and his ability to spot new talent.
The ace director, who has won six National Awards, won the Tamil Nadu government's state award for best direction for his very first film, '16 Vayathinile', which featured Kamal Haasan, Rajinikanth and Sridevi in the lead.
Born to Periya Mayathevar and Meenakshi Ammal alias Karuthammal on July 17, 1941 in Alli Nagaram in Theni district, Bharathirajaa was originally named Chinnasamy. The director, who has directed around 44 films in his illustrious career, has delivered several cult classics including the Sivaji Ganesan-starrer 'Mudhal Mariyadhai', 'Mann Vasanai', 'Pudhumai Penn', 'Vedham Pudhithu', 'Kizhakku Cheemaiyile', 'Karuthamma' and 'Naadodi Thendral'.
Apart from directing, Bharathirajaa was also a brilliant actor. He made his debut as an actor in Kallukkul Eeram and then went on to act in a number of movies including Nizhalgal, Dhaavani Kanavugal, Idhayam, Aayudha Ezhuthu, Rettai Suzhi, Pandiya Naadu, Seethakaadhi, Maanaadu, Eeswaran, and Thiruchitrambalam.
— IANS
Reader Comments
I grew up watching Bharathiraja's movies with my family. His ability to portray rural life and social issues was unmatched. Kamal Haasan sharing such a heartfelt message shows the bond they shared. 🙏
While Kamal's tribute is beautiful, I feel Bharathiraja's contribution to Indian cinema is often underappreciated beyond Tamil Nadu. His National Awards and the way he nurtured talents like Kamal and Rajini deserve more recognition. Happy birthday, legend! 🎂
I didn't know Bharathiraja had passed away so recently. Kamal's words 'avar padaipukkal irrukindrana' are so true—his films will live forever. 'Kizhakku Cheemaiyile' is still one of my favorites. 😢
Beautiful to see Kamal Haasan honor his mentor's birthday even after his passing. The Tamil film industry lost a giant in June. His 'En Iniya Tamil Makkale' opening lines will always give me goosebumps. True talent! 🔥
As a film student, Bharathiraja's work is a masterclass in storytelling. His ability to bring rural Tamil Nadu to life is unparalleled. Kamal's tribute captures the essence of their friendship—respectful and heartfelt. Miss you, sir. 🌹
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