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- Bharathiraja Passes Away Live Update: Chiranjeevi, Vijay, Pawan Kalyan, Allu Arjun mourn Tamil cinema legend
THE TIMES OF INDIA | Jun 10, 2026, 17:02:00 IST
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Bharathiraja Passes Away Live Update: Chiranjeevi, Vijay, Pawan Kalyan, Allu Arjun mourn Tamil cinema legend
Veteran filmmaker and actor Bharathiraja passed away in Chennai at the age of 84, leaving behind an extraordinary legacy that helped redefine Tamil cinema. Revered as one of the industry's most influential storytellers, Bharathiraja was known for introducing realistic narratives, rural settings and emotionally rich characters to mainstream cinema.
The news of his death triggered an outpouring of grief from the film fraternity and political leaders. Several prominent personalities paid tribute to the legendary filmmaker, acknowledging his immense contribution to Indian cinema and the lasting impact of his work.
Actor Chiranjeevi remembered Bharathiraja as one of Indian cinema's greatest storytellers. He praised the filmmaker's ability to transform ordinary human experiences into memorable cinematic moments and highlighted the influence his films had on audiences and filmmakers alike. Chiranjeevi also recalled working under Bharathiraja's direction and described him as a passionate and dedicated artist.
Former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin expressed deep sorrow over the filmmaker's passing. He credited Bharathiraja with changing the direction of Tamil cinema and creating a unique style that brought films closer to reality. Stalin also reflected on the director's extensive filmography, noting that many of his works would remain important milestones in Tamil cinema history.
Recognising his remarkable contribution to the arts, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay announced that Bharathiraja would be given full state honours during his final rites. The decision followed requests from members of the film industry, including the Tamil Film Active Producers Association, which highlighted his role in strengthening and supporting the growth of Tamil cinema.
Director Arun Matheswaran also paid an emotional tribute, describing Bharathiraja as a fearless creative force who inspired generations through his work. Reflecting on their personal association, he said the veteran filmmaker had been a mentor and guiding figure in his life.
Throughout his long career, Bharathiraja earned widespread recognition for his ability to tell authentic stories rooted in culture, relationships and social realities. His films broke away from conventional filmmaking styles and introduced a new wave of storytelling that continues to influence contemporary cinema.
While the film industry mourns his loss, Bharathiraja's contribution remains timeless. His movies, artistic vision and commitment to meaningful storytelling have secured his place among the greatest filmmakers in Indian cinema history. His legacy will continue to inspire audiences and filmmakers for many years to come.
The news of his death triggered an outpouring of grief from the film fraternity and political leaders. Several prominent personalities paid tribute to the legendary filmmaker, acknowledging his immense contribution to Indian cinema and the lasting impact of his work.
Actor Chiranjeevi remembered Bharathiraja as one of Indian cinema's greatest storytellers. He praised the filmmaker's ability to transform ordinary human experiences into memorable cinematic moments and highlighted the influence his films had on audiences and filmmakers alike. Chiranjeevi also recalled working under Bharathiraja's direction and described him as a passionate and dedicated artist.
Former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin expressed deep sorrow over the filmmaker's passing. He credited Bharathiraja with changing the direction of Tamil cinema and creating a unique style that brought films closer to reality. Stalin also reflected on the director's extensive filmography, noting that many of his works would remain important milestones in Tamil cinema history.
Recognising his remarkable contribution to the arts, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay announced that Bharathiraja would be given full state honours during his final rites. The decision followed requests from members of the film industry, including the Tamil Film Active Producers Association, which highlighted his role in strengthening and supporting the growth of Tamil cinema.
Director Arun Matheswaran also paid an emotional tribute, describing Bharathiraja as a fearless creative force who inspired generations through his work. Reflecting on their personal association, he said the veteran filmmaker had been a mentor and guiding figure in his life.
Throughout his long career, Bharathiraja earned widespread recognition for his ability to tell authentic stories rooted in culture, relationships and social realities. His films broke away from conventional filmmaking styles and introduced a new wave of storytelling that continues to influence contemporary cinema.
While the film industry mourns his loss, Bharathiraja's contribution remains timeless. His movies, artistic vision and commitment to meaningful storytelling have secured his place among the greatest filmmakers in Indian cinema history. His legacy will continue to inspire audiences and filmmakers for many years to come.
17:02 (IST) Jun 10
A Legacy That Will Endure
As the film fraternity continues to mourn, Bharathiraja's contribution to Indian cinema remains unforgettable. His films reshaped storytelling, inspired generations and brought authenticity to the screen. Though the legendary filmmaker is no longer among us, his work will continue to influence artists and audiences for years to come.
16:37 (IST) Jun 10
'I've Lost A Friend, A Mentor And A Father'
Reflecting on their bond, Arun added, "I’ll carry forever the privilege of directing him in my first film. Watching him work, you understood what it meant to love cinema more than anything else in the world. He inspired generations. His films will keep teaching, provoking, and moving us for decades to come. Rest in peace, sir. Thank you for everything Bharathiraja sir. I’ve lost a friend, a mentor and a father."
16:16 (IST) Jun 10
'We've Lost More Than A Filmmaker'
In his tribute, Arun wrote, "We’ve lost more than a filmmaker." He went on to praise Bharathiraja's fearless spirit, creativity and unwavering love for cinema.
16:02 (IST) Jun 10
Arun Matheswaran Pays Tribute
Director Arun Matheswaran also remembered Bharathiraja with an emotional message. He described the veteran filmmaker as much more than a cinema icon.
15:56 (IST) Jun 10
Contributions Beyond Direction
The association highlighted Bharathiraja's contribution not only as a filmmaker but also as a leader who worked for the welfare of producers and artists. Under his leadership, the body expanded significantly.
15:48 (IST) Jun 10
Request From TFAPA
The decision followed a request made by the Tamil Film Active Producers Association. Bharathiraja was among the key figures associated with the organisation's formation in 2020.
15:34 (IST) Jun 10
State Honours Announced
Recognising his immense contribution to cinema, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay announced that Bharathiraja would be accorded full state honours during his funeral.
15:17 (IST) Jun 10
Influence Across Languages
While Bharathiraja's roots were firmly in Tamil cinema, his influence reached audiences across India. His work inspired filmmakers beyond linguistic boundaries.
15:07 (IST) Jun 10
Vishal mourns Bharathiraja's passing
Shocking and sad to hear the news about our legendary filmmaker, Iyakunarimayam Bharathiraja sir passing away and leaving us all this morning.
— Vishal (@VishalKOfficial) June 10, 2026
A visionary who changed the landscape of Tamil cinema forever, he brought the soul of our villages, our people and our emotions to the…
14:25 (IST) Jun 10
Rajinikanth bids an emotional farewell to Bharathiraja
Superstar Rajinikanth became emotional while paying his last respects to his longtime friend, legendary filmmaker Bharathiraja. Speaking about the loss, Rajinikanth revealed that he had hoped to meet Bharathiraja one final time but could not do so before the filmmaker’s passing. The actor, who shared a friendship spanning nearly five decades with Bharathiraja, was visibly moved as he remembered him and paid tribute to his remarkable contribution to Indian cinema.
14:23 (IST) Jun 10
Keerthy Suresh pays her last respects
Actress Keerthy Suresh visited the residence of legendary filmmaker and actor Bharathiraja to pay her final respects. Bharathiraja passed away at the age of 84 after battling prolonged age-related health issues. His demise has left the Indian film industry in mourning, with actors, filmmakers, and fans gathering to honour the iconic director whose contributions to cinema continue to inspire generations.
13:58 (IST) Jun 10
Director Anil Ravipudi recalls growing up watching Bharathiraja’s films
Director Anil Ravipudi took to his social media handle to write, “Deeply saddened by the passing of Bharathiraja Garu. I grew up watching and admiring his films. The simplicity, emotions, and honesty he brought to cinema made him one of the greatest storytellers of our time. Thank you for the memories and inspiration, Sir. My heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones.”
13:47 (IST) Jun 10
Actress Kajal Aggarwal shares her sorrow upon learning the news
Actress Kajal Aggarwal also shared her deepest condolences as she took to her X (formerly Twitter) handle and added a picture of the Tamil cinema legend. Along with it she wrote, “Heartfelt condolences to #bharathiraja sirs family, well wishers and fans. @offBharathiraja om shanti.”
13:35 (IST) Jun 10
Mohanlal remembers Bharathiraja
Veteran actor Mohanlal paid an emotional tribute to legendary filmmaker Bharathiraja by sharing a photograph of him on social media. Remembering their time together in the film ‘Thudarum’, Mohanlal wrote, “A director who found poetry in the soil, truth in silence, and soul in every frame. Sharing screen space with Bharathiraja Sir in Thudarum was an honour I will cherish forever. Rest in peace, Sir. Your legacy will continue to inspire generations, and your presence will be deeply missed.”
13:33 (IST) Jun 10
Allu Arjun pays tribute to Bharathiraja
Actor Allu Arjun expressed his grief over the demise of legendary filmmaker Bharathiraja through a heartfelt social media post. On his X handle, he wrote, “Deeply saddened by the passing of #Bharathiraja garu. A true legend whose vision, storytelling, and contribution to Indian cinema will remain timeless. His legacy will continue to inspire generations of filmmakers and artists. Heartfelt condolences to his family, loved ones, and admirers. Om Shanti.”
13:29 (IST) Jun 10
Composer Santhosh Narayanan remembers Bharathiraja
Music composer Santhosh Narayanan took to his X handle to write, “The absolute legend Thiru Bharathiraja leaves us with an everlasting body of work in cinema that will impact art form forever. I fondly remember his conversations with me appreciating and dissecting the work of many debutant directors back in the day, many of whom are turning out to be legends themselves today. Rest in peace dearest ayya. Our prayers to his grieving family, countless fans and inspired creators.”
13:11 (IST) Jun 10
Bharathiraja’s health battle before his demise
Legendary Tamil filmmaker Bharathiraja passed away at the age of 84 in Chennai. He had been facing health problems for several months and was under medical care. An Economic Times report suggests he suffered from age-related illnesses and had been struggling with his health for a long time. Bharathiraja was famous for bringing village life and simple human stories to the big screen. His death is a huge loss for Tamil cinema, and fans across India are remembering his unforgettable films and legacy.
13:02 (IST) Jun 10
Pawan Kalyan mourn demise
Pawan Kalyan Tweeted, "The passing of the renowned legendary film director and Padma Shri awardee Shri Bharathiraja garu is an irreplaceable loss to the Indian film industry. With his extraordinary films, he not only won the hearts of Tamil cinema audiences but also those of Telugu, Hindi, and Kannada language viewers. Having received 6 National Awards, he left his unique imprint on the Indian film scene. The devotional film *Aaraadhana* that he brought to life with Annayya Megastar @KChiruTweets garu, as well as films like *Seethakoka Chiluka* that won a National Award, have remained eternally etched in the hearts of audiences. As a director who marvelously portrayed rural life and human relationships on screen, Shri Bharathiraja garu will be remembered forever. Losing such a great creative director is an irreplaceable loss to the Indian film industry. Expressing profound grief over Shri Bharathiraja garu's passing, I convey my deepest condolences to his family members and fans. Om Shanti. #Bharathiraja"
12:57 (IST) Jun 10
Bharathiraja Passes Away Live Update: Landmark films remembered
Recalling some of Bharathiraja's finest works, Stalin said, "His creations, including 16 Vayathinile, Kizhakke Pogum Rail, Sigappu Rojakkal, Alaigal Oivathillai, Tick Tick Tick, Muthal Mariyathai, Kadalora Kavithaigal, Vedham Pudhithu, Karuthamma—cannot be overlooked by anyone writing the history of Tamil cinema. Through his creative genius, he directed films in other languages as well, imprinting his mark there too."
12:50 (IST) Jun 10
A unique cinematic voice
Stalin further noted that Bharathiraja developed a distinctive cinematic language of his own. According to him, the filmmaker created an era that remains unmatched in Tamil cinema.
12:43 (IST) Jun 10
Bharathiraja Passes Away Live Update: Tribute from Stalin
In his message, Stalin wrote, "The passing of ‘Director Imayam’ Thiru. Bharathiraja, who reshaped the path of Tamil cinema and created a new direction, brings immense sorrow. I express my deepest condolences on the demise of that great artist, which has become a profound loss to Tamil cinema."
12:42 (IST) Jun 10
Stalin expresses grief
Former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin also paid tribute to the late filmmaker. He described Bharathiraja's passing as a major loss to Tamil cinema.
12:40 (IST) Jun 10
Chiranjeevi's emotional message
He wrote, "Indian cinema has lost one of its greatest storytellers, Bharathiraja garu. He transformed the fragrance of village soil, the beauty of human relationships, the innocence of love, and the emotions of ordinary people into timeless cinematic poetry. His films touched millions of hearts and inspired generations of filmmakers. A recipient of the prestigious Padma Shri and several National Film Awards, Bharathiraja garu’s contribution to Indian cinema is immeasurable. I was fortunate to work under his direction. His passion for cinema, simplicity and dedication to his craft left a lasting impression on me. Though he is no longer with us, his legacy will live on forever through his remarkable films. Rest in peace, “Iyakkunar Imayam” Bharathiraja garu. My heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and admirers. Om Shanti."
12:36 (IST) Jun 10
Bharathiraja Passes Away Live Update: Chiranjeevi remembers Bharathiraja
Among the first prominent voices to react was actor Chiranjeevi. Taking to social media, he shared a heartfelt note celebrating Bharathiraja's contribution to Indian cinema.
12:35 (IST) Jun 10
Bharathiraja Passes Away Live Update: Tributes flood social media
Soon after the news of his demise emerged, tributes began pouring in from actors, filmmakers, politicians and fans. Many remembered him as a visionary whose influence extended far beyond the screen.
12:35 (IST) Jun 10
Legacy beyond films
Apart from directing acclaimed movies, Bharathiraja played a major role in introducing fresh talent. Many actors and technicians who later became stars began their journeys under his guidance.
12:35 (IST) Jun 10
A transformative figure
Widely regarded as a pioneer, Bharathiraja changed the visual and storytelling language of Tamil cinema. His films brought realism, rural life and human emotions to the forefront.
12:34 (IST) Jun 10
Bharathiraja Passes Away Live Update: End of an era
Bharathiraja's death marks the end of a remarkable chapter in Indian cinema. For decades, he remained one of the defining creative forces behind Tamil filmmaking.
12:34 (IST) Jun 10
Veteran filmmaker passes away
Tamil cinema lost one of its most influential voices on Wednesday with the passing of veteran filmmaker and actor Bharathiraja. He was 84. The celebrated director breathed his last in Chennai after battling age-related and respiratory health issues.
The Indian film industry is mourning the loss of legendary filmmaker and actor Bharathiraja, who passed away in Chennai at the age of 84. Widely celebrated as one of the most influential directors in Tamil cinema, Bharathiraja leaves behind a remarkable legacy that transformed storytelling and filmmaking in South Indian cinema.
Known for bringing realism to the big screen, Bharathiraja changed the landscape of Tamil cinema by taking stories out of studio settings and placing them in authentic rural environments. His films highlighted village life, human relationships, social issues and emotions with a level of realism that resonated deeply with audiences. Over the decades, he earned a reputation as a visionary storyteller whose work inspired generations of filmmakers.
Following the news of his demise, tributes poured in from across the country. Actors, directors, politicians and fans remembered Bharathiraja not only for his cinematic achievements but also for his lasting impact on Indian cinema. Many described him as a pioneer who introduced a fresh visual language and narrative style that influenced countless filmmakers.
Among those who paid tribute was Chiranjeevi, who praised Bharathiraja's extraordinary contribution to Indian cinema. Remembering his experience of working with the filmmaker, the actor highlighted his passion, simplicity and dedication to the craft of filmmaking. Chiranjeevi noted that Bharathiraja's films captured the beauty of human emotions and everyday life in a way that touched millions of viewers.
Political leaders also acknowledged his immense contribution. Former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin described Bharathiraja as a filmmaker who reshaped Tamil cinema and created a unique cinematic era. He recalled several of the director's iconic films and stated that they would continue to occupy an important place in the history of Tamil cinema.
In recognition of his contributions, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay announced that Bharathiraja would be accorded full state honours during his funeral. The decision came after requests from members of the film fraternity who sought official recognition for the filmmaker's contributions to the industry.
Director Arun Matheswaran also shared an emotional tribute, describing Bharathiraja as more than a filmmaker. He remembered him as a mentor, guide and father figure whose influence extended beyond cinema.
As the industry bids farewell to Bharathiraja, his films continue to stand as a testament to his creative vision. His work remains an enduring source of inspiration, ensuring that his legacy will live on through generations of filmmakers and cinema lovers.
Known for bringing realism to the big screen, Bharathiraja changed the landscape of Tamil cinema by taking stories out of studio settings and placing them in authentic rural environments. His films highlighted village life, human relationships, social issues and emotions with a level of realism that resonated deeply with audiences. Over the decades, he earned a reputation as a visionary storyteller whose work inspired generations of filmmakers.
Following the news of his demise, tributes poured in from across the country. Actors, directors, politicians and fans remembered Bharathiraja not only for his cinematic achievements but also for his lasting impact on Indian cinema. Many described him as a pioneer who introduced a fresh visual language and narrative style that influenced countless filmmakers.
Among those who paid tribute was Chiranjeevi, who praised Bharathiraja's extraordinary contribution to Indian cinema. Remembering his experience of working with the filmmaker, the actor highlighted his passion, simplicity and dedication to the craft of filmmaking. Chiranjeevi noted that Bharathiraja's films captured the beauty of human emotions and everyday life in a way that touched millions of viewers.
Political leaders also acknowledged his immense contribution. Former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin described Bharathiraja as a filmmaker who reshaped Tamil cinema and created a unique cinematic era. He recalled several of the director's iconic films and stated that they would continue to occupy an important place in the history of Tamil cinema.
In recognition of his contributions, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay announced that Bharathiraja would be accorded full state honours during his funeral. The decision came after requests from members of the film fraternity who sought official recognition for the filmmaker's contributions to the industry.
Director Arun Matheswaran also shared an emotional tribute, describing Bharathiraja as more than a filmmaker. He remembered him as a mentor, guide and father figure whose influence extended beyond cinema.
As the industry bids farewell to Bharathiraja, his films continue to stand as a testament to his creative vision. His work remains an enduring source of inspiration, ensuring that his legacy will live on through generations of filmmakers and cinema lovers.
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