Manoj Bharathiraja Passes Away : Tamil actor and filmmaker Manoj Bharathiraja, son of veteran director Bharathiraja, passed away on Tuesday (March 25) in Chennai due to cardiac arrest. The 48-year-old actor had recently undergone bypass surgery and was recuperating at his home when he suffered the fatal attack. His sudden demise has left the Tamil film industry in shock.
Manoj made his acting debut in the 1999 Tamil film Taj Mahal, directed by his father. Though the film did not perform well at the box office, its music by AR Rahman made it memorable. He went on to act in films like Samudhiram, Kadal Pookkal, Varushamellam Vasantham, and Eera Nilam.
Later, he transitioned into supporting roles in movies such as Vaaimai, Eeswaran, Maanaadu, and Viruman. In 2023, he made his directorial debut with Margazhi Thingal, starring Bharathiraja.
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Tamil Film Industry and Political Leaders Mourn His Loss
Several celebrities and political leaders have condoled Manoj’s demise. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin expressed shock and extended his sympathies to Bharathiraja and the family. “His untimely demise is heartbreaking. My deepest condolences to his family and friends,” Stalin said.
Actor Suriya visited Bharathiraja’s residence to pay his last respects. A video showed Suriya consoling the veteran director, holding his hands as Bharathiraja appeared visibly devastated. Actor Vijay also paid tribute, along with Kamal Haasan, who called Manoj’s passing a tragic loss.
Music composer Ilaiyaraaja, Tamil Manila Congress President G.K. Vasan, Tamil Nadu BJP President K. Annamalai, and actor-politician Khushbu Sundar also expressed their condolences. “Extremely shocked to hear that Manoj is not among us anymore. May God give his family strength,” Khushbu wrote on social media.
Manoj Bharathiraja is survived by his wife, actor Nandana, and their two daughters, Arshitha and Mathivadhani. His funeral is expected to take place in Chennai, with the film fraternity gathering to bid him a final farewell.
