Chennai, June 11:
Veteran filmmaker Bharathiraja will be cremated with full state honours today at his farmhouse in Theni district, following his passing on Wednesday in Chennai.
The acclaimed director, known for his landmark contributions to Tamil cinema, was given public homage at his residence in Neelankarai before his mortal remains were taken to his native place for the final rites.
In Chennai, Chief Minister Vijay and DMK leader M. K. Stalin paid their last respects, alongside senior film personalities including Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan.
The final rites are being held in Theni, reflecting the filmmaker’s wish to be laid to rest in his native soil.
The veteran filmmaker was widely regarded as one of the pioneers of realistic storytelling in Tamil cinema, with a career spanning several decades and films that reshaped rural narratives on screen. His works influenced generations of directors and continue to be celebrated for their emotional depth and social relevance.
Large crowds, including fans, industry colleagues, and members of the public, gathered to pay their respects as the final journey proceeded to Theni. The atmosphere remained solemn as admirers recalled his contribution to Indian cinema and bid farewell to the iconic filmmaker
.