The Tamil film industry is mourning the loss of legendary filmmaker Bharathiraja, who passed away in the early hours of Wednesday. Fans and prominent figures from the industry have been expressing their sorrow, and actor-turned-politician and Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Vijay, visited Bharathiraja's residence in Neelangarai to pay his last respects.
CM Vijay Pays Last Respects
CM Vijay visited Bharathiraja's residence to pay his final respects and offered homage to the filmmaker. His official message on X (formerly Twitter), loosely translated in English, reads: “The Honorable Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Thiru. S. Joseph Vijay visited the residence of the late director Imayam Thiru. Bharathiraja, who passed away today (10.06.2026) due to ill health, in person and paid his respects by garlanding the body.” His official handle also shared images from his time at the residence, where he can be seen emotional as he paid his final respects to the renowned filmmaker.
Film Personalities Remember the Legend
Several actors, directors, and technicians shared emotional messages remembering the filmmaker and his remarkable work. Music director and actor G V Prakash Kumar expressed his grief and wrote, "Barathiraja sir. Really saddened to hear this. The stalwart who changed cinema and inspired so many film makers."
Actress Gautami also paid tribute and said, "I am deeply saddened at the passing of our Iyakkunar Imayam Barathiraaja sir. He is a true legend in the spectrum of Indian film and has defined an era of Tamil cinema with his timeless classics."
Actress Revathi, who made her entry into Tamil cinema through Bharathiraja, shared a heartfelt message. She wrote, "RIP Bharathiraja Sir - the reason that I am here as an Actor and did the films I did."
About Bharathiraja
Bharathiraja was one of the most respected filmmakers in Indian cinema. He was known for bringing rural Tamil Nadu to the silver screen in a realistic and beautiful way, earning him the title 'Iyakkunar Imayam' (The Himalayan Director). His films, such as 16 Vayathinile, Sigappu Rojakkal, and Kizhakke Pogum Rail, remain classics that defined an era of Tamil cinema.
About the Author
TOI Entertainment Desk: The TOI Entertainment Desk is a dynamic and dedicated team of journalists, working tirelessly to bring the pulse of the entertainment world straight to the readers of The Times of India. No red carpet goes unrolled, no stage goes dark - our team spans the globe, bringing you the latest scoops and insider insights from Bollywood to Hollywood, and every entertainment hotspot in between. We don't just report; we tell tales of stardom and stories untold. Whether it's the rise of a new sensation or the seasoned journey of an industry veteran, the TOI Entertainment Desk is your front-row seat to the fascinating narratives that shape the entertainment landscape. Beyond the breaking news, we present a celebration of culture. We explore the intersections of entertainment with society, politics, and everyday life.
