Renowned Kollywood actor-director Bharathiraja’s son, Manoj Bharathiraja, passed away at the age of 48. Manoj breathed his last at his residence in Chetpet in Chennai at around 4 pm on Tuesday. Manoj is survived by his wife Ashwathi, alias Nandana, and two daughters, Arshitha and Mathivathani.
Manoj Bharathiraja reportedly underwent a bypass surgery a few days ago. Leaving his family members and the film industry heartbroken, he passed away at his home while recuperating from the surgery. Manoj’s sudden demise has left the Tamil film industry in shock. Several celebrities, fans, and well-wishers are taking to social media and extending their heartfelt condolences to Manoj’s family members.
Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin poured in his tributes on Manoj’s passing. “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, and Varushamellam Vasantham, creating a mark for himself. He also tried his hand at directing,” the CM tweeted.
Popular Tamil stars such as Sarathkumar, Khushboo Sundar, director Venkat Prabhu, director Halitha Shameem, and several others fondly remembered Manoj and condoled Bharathiraja and his family members on Manoj’s death.
Manoj made his silver screen debut with the 1999 love story, Taj Mahal. The film had a soundtrack composed by AR Rahman. Manoj also sang the ‘Eechi Elumichi’ song in the film’s music album. He also directed the 2023 film, Margazhi Thingal. He played key roles in movies like Alli Arjuna, Varushamellam Vasantham, Maha Nadigan, Simbu’s Maanaadu, and Karthi’s Viruman. He was last seen in Prime Video’s Snakes and Ladders.