Veteran Tamil cinema director Bharathiraja remains under medical care in a Chennai hospital, with doctors confirming that his health condition is now stable. The acclaimed filmmaker was admitted to MGM Healthcare in Aminjikkarai, Chennai, on December 27 after experiencing breathlessness.
Official Medical Bulletin Provides Reassurance
In an official statement, the hospital addressed public concern and dispelled baseless rumours about the director's health. The bulletin clarified that the 82-year-old icon is receiving appropriate care in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).
The statement read, "Mr Bharathiraja is presently admitted... following complaints of breathlessness. His clinical condition is stable, and he continues to be under close monitoring by our team of medical experts. With appropriate support, his vital parameters remain within normal limits. He is responding satisfactorily to the ongoing treatment."
The hospital has assured that further updates will be provided as necessary.
A Difficult Emotional Phase Following Personal Loss
The director's hospitalisation comes during an emotionally challenging period in his life. Bharathiraja has been grappling with the profound loss of his son, actor-director Manoj Bharathiraja, who passed away in March 2025 at the age of 48 after suffering a cardiac arrest.
In a recent interview, the filmmaker's brother, Jayaraj Periyamayathevar, revealed the depth of his sibling's grief. "Anna has been unwell for a few months now. He has not been able to cope with the loss of his son," he shared. "He often looks at Manoj's photos and breaks down. We even took him to Malaysia, hoping a change of place would console and heal him. But even there, his thoughts kept returning to his late son."
According to reports, Bharathiraja had been staying with his daughter in Malaysia for treatment in recent months and had returned to Chennai shortly before his hospitalisation.
A Legacy That Defined Tamil Cinema
Bharathiraja is celebrated as one of the most influential figures in Tamil cinema history. He pioneered the 'new wave' in the 1970s, moving storytelling to rural landscapes with raw realism. His iconic filmography includes groundbreaking works that reshaped the industry:
- 16 Vayathinile (1977) - A landmark film that launched several careers.
- Kizhakke Pogum Rail (1978) and Sigappu Rojakkal (1978).
- Nizhalgal (1980) and Alaigal Oivathillai (1981).
- Mudhal Mariyathai (1985) and Kizhakku Cheemayile (1993).
His last directorial venture was Meendum Oru Mariyathai in 2020. In recent years, he has also taken on acting roles, with his latest appearance in the 2025 film Thudarum, starring Mohanlal and Shobana.
The film fraternity and countless fans across Tamil Nadu and beyond continue to wish the legendary director a speedy and complete recovery, hoping to see him back in good health soon.
