The Tamil film industry is mourning the death of the legendary filmmaker Bharathirajawho passed away on Wednesday at the age of 84. The towering figure who changed the face of Tamil cinema with his unique storytelling faced health issues before his death.According to a report in the Economic Times, Bharathiraja had been facing a number of health problems for the past few months. Towards the end of 2025 he was admitted to a hospital in Chennai due to breathing difficulties. He was then under regular medical care and received treatment for various age-related problems.
Lung infection and respiratory complications
It has also been reported that the ‘Meendum Oru Mariyathai’ director had a lung infection and suffered from numerous respiratory problems. Although the filmmaker was responding to treatment, his health was fragile.
Health remained a concern despite treatment
Earlier this year, hospital authorities clarified that he was undergoing treatment for respiratory complications. Several film personalities from Tamil cinema also visited during its revival. It was also said that the veteran filmmaker appeared weak while undergoing treatment. Although he received medical attention, his condition remained a concern among his family, friends and fans.
Personal tragedy
Unfortunately, the veteran filmmaker also suffered a heartbreaking tragedy last year in 2025. His son, Manoj Bharathiraja, who was also a filmmaker, actor and director, died at the age of 48 after suffering a cardiac arrest. The emotional pain of losing her son took a toll on her overall well-being over the past year.Several famous figures in the film industry have expressed their condolences to the filmmaker’s family, remembering him and offering their last farewell. Actor and MP from Andhra Pradesh CM Pawan Kalyan, ChiranjeeviTamil Nadu CM Vijay and others shared emotional messages on hearing the news.
