Tamil Actor-Director Manoj Bharathiraja Passes Away at 48

The South Indian film industry is mourning the loss of actor-director Manoj Bharathiraja, son of renowned Tamil filmmaker Bharathiraja. Manoj (48) passed away due to a heart attack on Tuesday evening in Chennai. Industry sources revealed that he had undergone heart surgery a few months ago and was recovering, but he suddenly suffered a fatal cardiac arrest. He is survived by his wife Nandana and daughters Arshita and Madivadhani. Manoj entered the film industry in 1999 with the movie Taj Mahal, directed by his father Bharathiraja.

In Taj Mahal, actress Riya Sen played the female lead, with screenplay support from Mani Ratnam and music composed by A.R. Rahman. Manoj gained recognition with films like Kadal Pookal, Alli Arjuna, Viruman, and Maanaadu. In 2023, he transitioned into directing with the movie Margazhi Thingal. After acting for nearly 20 years, he took steps toward direction, featuring his father Bharathiraja, along with Shyam Selvan and Rakshana in key roles. The film’s music was composed by Ilaiyaraaja.

Manoj’s passing has left the Kollywood industry in deep sorrow. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin expressed his condolences, stating that he was shocked by the untimely demise of Manoj Bharathiraja. He conveyed his sympathies to Bharathiraja, Manoj’s family, and his friends in the film industry.