Tamil 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.
Offering his condolences, he wrote, “His unexpected demise at a young age is deeply shocking. I express my deepest condolences and comfort to Iyakkunar Imayam Bharathiraja, his family, and friends from the film industry who are grieving the loss of their beloved son.”
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.”
Watch the video here:
Actor-politician Sarathkumar was heartbroken upon hearing the death of Manoj Bharathiraja. His X post in Tamil is loosely translated as, “My heart is shattered hearing the death of Manoj Bharathiraja, son of Tamil director Bharathiraja, who is like our family.”
Recalling the time he played Manoj’s brother in a film titled Samudhiram, he wrote, “He played many versatile roles and made a mark for himself. To see him pass away shows the precarious state of life.”
Sarathkumar expressed his condolences and wrote, “We have no words to console Bharathiraja and his family. My heartfelt condolences to his family, relatives, friends and the film industry.”
Here’s the post:
Director Venkat Prabhu shared a photo with Manoj and his friends on X. “Really shocking to hear the news..can’t believe u r no more my brother #manoj gone tooooo soon..depest condolences to @offBharathiraja unclde family and friends. may ur soul RIP (sic),” his note read.
Actor, producer and politician Khushbu Sundar wrote, “Extremely shocked to hear that Manoj is not among us anymore. His untimely demise pains. He was just 48 yrs. May God give the strength to his father Thiru #Bharathiraaja avl and his family to overcome this unbearable painful loss. You will be missed Manoj. (sic).”
Director Halitha Shameem, in her tribute post, wrote, “Extremely shocked to hear about Manoj Bharathiraja’s passing…He wanted to direct films, he had so much more to offer. ‘Eechi Elumichi’ remains my all-time favorite song. His voice, so unique that I always wished to request him to lend, sing for one of my films. Devastated 🙁 (sic).”
ABOUT MANOJ BHARATHIRAJA
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.
