Manoj Bharathiraja, Tamil actor-director passes away at 48, tributes pour in
Tamil actor-director Manoj Bharathiraja, son of legendary filmmaker Bharathiraja, passed away at his home in Chetpet, Chennai, on 25 March. He was 48. Reports suggest he had undergone bypass surgery a few days prior. At around 4 pm on Tuesday, he suffered a cardiac arrest. His untimely demise has left the Tamil film industry and fans devastated.
Manoj is survived by his wife, Ashwathi alias Nandana, and their two daughters, Arshitha and Mathivathani. Details regarding his final rites are awaited.
Tributes from the Film Fraternity
The Tamil film industry and Manoj’s admirers have been expressing their grief on social media. Actor-politician Sarathkumar, deeply saddened, wrote on X, «My heart is shattered hearing the death of Manoj Bharathiraja, son of Tamil director Bharathiraja, who is like our family.»
Recalling their time together in the film Samudhiram, he added, «He played many versatile roles and made a mark for himself. To see him pass away shows the precarious state of life.»
Offering his condolences, he wrote, «We have no words to console Bharathiraja and his family. My heartfelt condolences to his family, relatives, friends, and the film industry.»
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Director Venkat Prabhu shared a personal memory, posting a photo with Manoj and writing, «Really shocking to hear the news… Can't believe you are no more, my brother #manoj. Gone too soon. Deepest condolences to @offBharathiraja uncle, family, and friends. May your soul RIP.»
Actor, producer, and politician Khushbu Sundar also expressed her sorrow, stating, «Extremely shocked to hear that Manoj is not among us anymore. His untimely demise pains. He was just 48 years old. May God give the strength to his father Thiru #Bharathiraaja avl and his family