Actor Manoj Bharathiraja dies at 48

Tamil actor-director Manoj Bharathiraja, son of legendary filmmaker and actor Bharathiraja, died of heart attack at his residence in Chetpet, Chennai on March 25, India Today reported.

Reports suggest that he underwent bypass surgery a few days ago. At around 4 pm on Tuesday, he died at his home. He was 48 years old. Manoj is survived by his wife, Ashwathi alias Nandana, and two daughters, Arshitha and Mathivathani. More details regarding his final rites are still awaited.

The sudden passing of Manoj Bharathiraja has sent shockwaves across Tamil Nadu. His followers and colleagues have been expressing their shock and paying tributes on X.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin mourned the death of Manoj Bharathiraja on X. “I am deeply saddened to hear the news of the passing of Mr Manoj Bharathi, son of actor and director Bharathiraja. He made his debut with the film Taj Mahal, directed by his father and went on to act in many films including Samuthiram, Alli Arjuna, Varushamellam Vasantham, creating a mark for himself. He also tried his hand at directing,” his post read.

Offering his condolences, 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.”