Who was Bharathiraja? Renowned Tamil filmmaker dies at 84, was last seen in Mohanlal’s…
Sanjeev Kumar | June 10, 2026 6:23 PM CST
Veteran film director and actor P. Bharathiraja, who shaped the history of Tamil cinema with his realistic stories, passed away in Chennai on Wednesday morning. He was 84 years old and had been battling old age and health ailments for a long time. He breathed his last at his Chennai residence. The Tamil Film Producers Council and family sources confirmed the sad news.
Tamil filmmaker Bharathiraja passes away at 84
According to reports, Bharathiraja had been suffering from age-related health problems for some time. His health deteriorated over the past year, especially after his son and actor Manoj Bharathiraja passed away from cardiac arrest in 2025.
Since this family tragedy, Bharathiraja’s health has been reported to be deteriorating. He was hospitalised in December last year due to respiratory problems and was again hospitalised this year due to his health. After treatment, he was discharged in April.
Where Bharathiraja made his mark in Tamil cinema
Bharathiraja made his directorial debut in 1977 with the film 16 Vayathinile. The film starred Kamal Haasan and Sridevi in the lead roles, with superstar Rajinikanth playing the villain. This film proved to be a milestone in the history of Tamil cinema. At a time when films were made exclusively within walls and studio sets, Bharathiraja took the camera to the real villages, fields, and soil of Tamil Nadu.
How many films did Bharathiraja direct and act in?
Bharathiraja directed over 40 blockbusters, including Kizhakke Pogum Rail, Sigappu Rojakkal, Alaigal Oivathillai, and Muthal Mariyathai. Along with directing, he also delivered stellar performances in films like Aayutha Ezhuthu, Thiruchitrambalam, and Maharaja. His most recent screen appearance was in Mohanlal’s Thudarum, and his unreleased film Pulavar will be his last film as an actor. Over four decades, he directed over 40 films and was known as “Iyakkunar Imayam.”
Bharathiraja has received several national awards, including the Padma Shri in 2004. His contribution to Tamil cinema remains unforgettable, and his realistic storytelling style changed the way films were made in the industry.
