PM Modi pays tribute to Bharathiraja, calls him "towering figure" of Indian cinema
New Delhi, June 11
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday paid tribute to legendary filmmaker Bharathiraja, remembering him as a towering figure of Indian cinema whose work transformed Tamil filmmaking and beautifully captured the essence of rural life.
PM Modi took to his X account to extend his condolences to the director's family and countless admirers, and recalled the lasting impact Bharathiraja had on Indian cinema through his storytelling and memorable films.
Remembering the filmmaker as a "towering figure" who reached the highest levels of success in the film industry, Modi also praised the way Bharathiraja portrayed village life on screen.
"Mr. Bharathiraja's passing brings immense sorrow. He provided works that transformed Tamil cinema and stood as a towering figure who reached the pinnacle in the film industry. In particular, the way he depicted rural life is highly commendable. In this sorrowful moment, all my thoughts are joined with his family members and fans. Om Shanti," Modi wrote on X.
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Meanwhile, the final rites of legendary filmmaker Bharathiraja will be held on Thursday in his hometown of Theni with full state honours.
Authorities have made elaborate arrangements for the cremation, which is scheduled to take place at 3 p.m.
Bharathiraja made his directorial debut with the acclaimed film 16 Vayathinile in 1977 and went on to become one of Tamil cinema's most influential filmmakers. Over a career spanning more than four decades, he directed over 40 films and earned the title of 'Iyakkunar Immayam' for his remarkable contribution to cinema.
Some of his most celebrated films include 'Kizhake Pogum Rail,' 'Sigappu Rojakkal,' 'Alaigal Oivathillai,' 'Kaadhal Oviyam' and 'Mudhal Mariyathai,' many of which are regarded as classics today.
His final directorial work was 'Paravai Kootil Vaazhum Maangal,' a segment from Prime Video's anthology series Modern Love Chennai.
Apart from directing, Bharathiraja also enjoyed a successful acting career. His most recent screen appearance was in Mohanlal-starrer 'Thudarum.' His unreleased film 'Pulavar' will mark his final appearance as an actor. Over the years, he also featured in films such as 'Aayutha Ezhuthu,' 'Pandianadu,' 'Eeswaran,' 'Thiruchitrambalam' and 'Maharaja.'
— ANI
Reader Comments
Sad day for Tamil cinema lovers. Bharathiraja was not just a director but a poet who painted village life with his camera. His films felt like home. Om Shanti to a legend. 💔
While I respect Bharathiraja's work, I wish PM Modi would also acknowledge the struggles of regional filmmakers more often. But yes, the man was a giant. "Sigappu Rojakkal" was ahead of its time.
Even as someone from the US, I've watched a few of Bharathiraja's films. The way he captured raw human emotions and rural aesthetics was universal. A true artist. Rest in peace, sir.
"Iyakkunar Immayam" indeed! He mentored so many talents like Mani Ratnam. His legacy will live on through his films. Sad that he won't see his final film release. 😢
Bharathiraja was the voice of the soil. His films showed the beauty and struggles of village life without glamourising poverty. A rare talent who stayed true to his roots. State honours are fitting.
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