Actor-director Manoj Bharathiraja dies at 48 in Chennai
Actor-director Manoj Bharathiraja, son of legendary filmmaker and actor Bharathiraja, died at his residence in Chetpet, Chennai on March 25.
Reports suggest that he underwent bypass surgery a few days ago. At around 4 pm on Tuesday, he died at his home. He was 48 years old.
Manoj is survived by his wife, Ashwathi alias Nandana, and two daughters, Arshitha and Mathivathani. More details regarding his final rites are still awaited.
The sudden passing of Manoj Bharathiraja has sent shockwaves across Tamil Nadu. His followers and colleagues have been expressing their shock and paying tributes on X.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin mourned the death of Manoj Bharathiraja on X. “I am deeply saddened to hear the news of the passing of Mr Manoj Bharathi, son of actor and director Bharathiraja. He made his debut with the film Taj Mahal, directed by his father and went on to act in many films including Samuthiram, Alli Arjuna, Varushamellam Vasantham, creating a mark for himself. He also tried his hand at directing,” his post read.
Renowned music composer Ilaiyaraja also reacted to the untimely demise of Bharathiraja. He said, “I was shocked to hear the passing of Manoj Kumar, son of my dear friend, Bharathiraja. I am at a loss of words. Such a tragedy shouldn’t have happned to Bharathi. But, we are left with no choice but to accept this fate.I pray to God for Manoj’s soul to rest in peace.”
Manoj Bharathiraja made his acting debut in 1999 with Taj Mahal. While the film failed at the box office, songs composed by AR Rahman were appreciated by the audience. He then went on to act in films like Alli Arjuna, Varushamellam Vasantham, Maha Nadigan, among others. Some of his recent works include Venkat Prabhu and Simbu’s Maanaadu and Karthi’s Viruman.
Apart from being an actor, Manoj Bharathiraja has also directed Tamil films. He debuted as a singer in Taj Mahal singing the AR Rahman-composed ‘Eechi Elumichi’.
Manoj Bharathiraja was last seen in Prime Video’s Snakes and Ladders.