Legendary Tamil filmmaker Bharathiraja, known for his influential contributions to Tamil cinema and portrayal of rural life, will be laid to rest with full state honors at his farmhouse near Vathalagundu in Theni district on Thursday. Bharathiraja passed away in Chennai due to age-related health issues, leading to an outpouring of grief from the film industry, political figures, and fans nationwide.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay visited Bharathiraja’s residence in Chennai to pay his respects by placing a wreath on the filmmaker’s mortal remains. He also met with the bereaved family to offer condolences and announced that the director’s final rites would be conducted with full state honors.
Numerous political leaders, actors, filmmakers, and the public gathered at Bharathiraja’s residence to pay homage to the veteran director. Personalities like DMK leader M.K. Stalin, actors Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan, music maestro Ilaiyaraaja, and directors S.A. Chandrasekhar and K. Bhagyaraj were among those who paid their respects.
Vairamuthu, a poet-lyricist, confirmed that Bharathiraja’s burial would take place at his farmhouse near Vathalagundu, where he had spent much of his time in recent years. The South Indian Film Employees Federation (FEFSI) announced the suspension of all film shooting activities in Tamil Nadu on Thursday as a mark of respect for the late director.
