Tamil Actor-Director Manoj Bharathiraja Passes Away at 48

The Tamil film industry was left in mourning on March 25, as news broke of the sudden passing of actor-director Manoj Bharathiraja at the age of 48. The son of legendary filmmaker Bharathiraja suffered a fatal heart attack at his residence in Chetpet, Chennai. Reports indicate that he had recently undergone bypass surgery.

Manoj is survived by his wife, Ashwathi (also known as Nandana), and their two daughters, Arshitha and Mathivathani. Details regarding his final rites are yet to be officially announced. The tragic news has led to an outpouring of tributes from the film fraternity and political leaders.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin expressed his condolences on social media, acknowledging Manoj's contributions to cinema. Recalling his debut in Taj Mahal (1999), which was directed by his father, Stalin praised his work in films like Samuthiram, Alli Arjuna, and Varushamellam Vasantham.

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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 Ilaiyaraaja also shared his sorrow, calling Manoj’s passing an unimaginable loss for his dear friend, Bharathiraja.

"I was shocked to hear the passing of Manoj Kumar, son of my dear friend, Bharathiraja," he said. "I am at a loss of words. Such a tragedy shouldn't have happened 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."

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Actor-politician Sarathkumar, who played Manoj’s brother in Samuthiram, took to social media to express his grief and offer his condolences while filmmaker Venkat Prabhu shared a throwback picture with Manoj and their friends, struggling to process the loss.

Khushbu Sundar, actress and politician, called Manoj’s demise painful and shocking. “His untimely demise pains. He was just 48 yrs,” she wrote.

Director Halitha Shameem also reminisced about Manoj’s distinctive voice, expressing regret that she never got the chance to collaborate with him musically.

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Manoj Bharathiraja made his acting debut in 1999 with Taj Mahal. He went on to star in films like Alli Arjuna, Varushamellam Vasantham, Maha Nadigan, and more, proving his acting prowess.

In addition to acting, Manoj harboured a passion for direction, dabbled in singing (Eechi Elumichi in Taj Mahal) and was most recently seen in Prime Video’s Snakes and Ladders.