Legendary actor-director Bhagyaraj cremated with full state honours

Chennai, Jun 28 (PTI) Veteran Tamil filmmaker, actor and screenwriter K Bhagyaraj, who passed away following a massive cardiac arrest on June 27, was cremated with full state honours at the Besant Nagar electric crematorium here on Sunday.

The 73-year-old multifaceted artist, celebrated as Tamil cinema’s “King of Screenplay,” breathed his last at a private hospital. He was rushed to the facility after complaining of chest pain following a routine morning walk, but resuscitation efforts failed.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay announced that the final rites would be performed with state honours as a mark of respect for Bhagyaraj’s enduring legacy and immense contribution to the film industry.

The filmmaker’s mortal remains have been kept

at his Nungambakkam residence, drawing a steady stream of mourners.

CM Vijay, superstar Rajinikanth, DMK chief M K Stalin, and several other political leaders and film personalities arrived to pay their floral tributes and offer condolences to the grieving family.

In a show of solidarity and respect for the departed soul, the Tamil film fraternity has cancelled all shooting schedules for Sunday.

Former assistants, colleagues, and protégés, including actor-director Parthiban, director Pandiraj, and actors Radikaa and Sarathkumar, were present at the residence early Sunday to assist the family and coordinate the public homage.

In a career spanning five decades, Bhagyaraj transformed Tamil cinema’s narrative landscape by crafting relatable middle-class stories and tight screenplays. He directed over 25 films and acted in more than 75, leaving behind critically acclaimed classics such as ‘Mundhanai Mudichu’, ‘Andha 7 Naatkal’, and ‘Chinna Veedu’. His passing comes barely a fortnight after the death of his mentor, legendary director Bharathiraja.

He is survived by his wife, actor Poornima Bhagyaraj, son Shanthanu, and daughter Saranya. PTI JR KH