A pall of gloom descended on Kollywood (Tamil film industry) as one of its most influential storytellers and legendary filmmakers, Bharathiraja, passed away in Chennai following age-related health complications at the age of 84. 

The critically-acclaimed director, who revolutionised Tamil filmmaking with his realistic portrayal of rural life and memorable characters, has left behind a cinematic legacy spanning several decades. Among the many stars he nurtured, few shared a bond as special as Tamil superstar Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan, both of whom showed up at his residence to pay their final respects. 

The director who reshaped Tamil cinema

Bharathiraja made his directorial debut with the iconic film, ‘Vayathinile,’ a 1977-release. The film transformed Kollywood’s landscape, which was headlined by Rajinikanth, Kamal Haasan and Sridevi. It emerged as a box-office blockbuster and remains one of the most celebrated works in the Indian cinema. 

Haasan portrayed the role of Chappani in the movie, a vulnerable and physically challenged villager subjected to ridicule, while Rajinikanth’s character was named Parattaiyan, a menacing village ruffian. Both characters left an indelible mark on the audiences. 

The movie was made on a modest budget of Rs 5 lakh and faced numerous financial impediments during production. However, it ended up being a money-minting affair at the box office. It raked in Rs 10 lakh, ran in theatres for more than 175 days and bagged a silver jubilee status. 

Rajinikanth remembers a mentor

Addressing the media after offering condolences to Bharathiraja’s family, Rajinikanth reflected on his immense contribution to the industry. He said, “Bharathiraja made the industry flourish and gave it new life. Whenever directors, actors, or anyone from the film fraternity faced problems, he would stand up for them, fight for their rights, and help give a solution to their problems.” 

Film fraternity gathers to pay tribute

Haasan, who was visibly emotional, arrived at the filmmaker’s residence along with a large floral wreath and paid his respects to the man who played a pivotal role in shaping his career. Other prominent Tamil actors like Radikaa Sarathkumar, Seeman, Suriya, Sivakumar, Ilaiyaraaja and Sukanya. 

Earlier in the day, actor-politician and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister (CM) C Joseph Vijay visited Bharathiraja’s residence soon after learning of his demise. He expressed profound sorrow and announced that the filmmaker’s last rites would be conducted with full state honours in recognition of his outstanding contribution to Tamil cinema.