Legendary Tamil director Bharathiraja passes away
Chennai, June 10
One of Tamil cinema's iconic directors Bharathirajaa passed away here on Wednesday. He was 84.
The veteran director, who is considered to be a trendsetter in Tamil and Indian cinema, had been battling health issues for some time now.
Known for showcasing the rural Tamil lifestyle with flair on screen with his movies, many of which dealt with societal problems, Bharathiraja, 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 was honoured with the Padma Shri, has won several state and National Awards. In fact, he 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 'Nadodi Thendral'.
Apart from directing, Bharathiraja 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.
Bharathiraja was also the person responsible for introducing a number of iconic directors and actors in Tamil cinema. Some of those whom he introduced include K Bhagyaraj, Radhika, Manivannan, Nepoleon, Nizhalgal Ravi, Aruna, Vijayshanthi, Usha, Goundamani, Karthik, Revathi, Radha and Thyagarajan.
Condolence messages are pouring in for the veteran director, who has left an indelible mark on Tamil and Indian cinema.
Actress Khushbu Sundar, who was among the first to express her grief on the demise of the great director, took to her X timeline to share her condolence message.
She said, "Devastated to know that our most beloved, loved and respected Director, the legendary #BharathiRaaja avl is no longer with us. His demise is a gloomy cloud in Tamil cinema. His films have been bench marks and shall continue to be the actual school of film making. He leaves behind a huge legacy for every cinema lover. He always said let's do a film with me in 2 pigtails. That shall remain an unfulfilled dream. Will miss you a lot Sir. Rest in peace. Om Shanti #BharathiRaaja
#eniniyaiyakkunare."
— IANS
Reader Comments
Heartbreaking news. As a Tamil girl who grew up watching his films, I feel like I've lost a family member. His movies taught us about love, sacrifice, and the beauty of village life. 'Karuthamma' and 'Vedham Pudhithu' were ahead of their time. Thank you for giving us Kamal, Rajini, and so many talents. You'll forever be in our hearts. 🙏
A true pioneer who showed the world the soul of Tamil Nadu. His films had the perfect blend of art and commerce. Sivaji Ganesan's performance in 'Mudhal Mariyadhai' under his direction was legendary. He made us proud with his Padma Shri. Will miss his unique vision. Rest in peace, Bharathiraja sir.
Honestly, while I respect his immense contribution, I wish more of his later films had the same magic as his earlier masterpieces. '16 Vayathinile' set a benchmark that was hard to surpass. But his role in shaping Tamil cinema's golden era is undeniable. A true legend.
Can't believe he's gone. Saw 'Nadodi Thendral' last week only. What a movie! He introduced so many stars - Revathi, Radhika, Karthik - the list goes on. He gave a platform to rural actors and actresses. Tamil cinema owes him so much. Om Shanti 🙏🌟
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