Veteran filmmaker K Bhagyaraj cremated with full state honours in Chennai

Chennai: Veteran Tamil filmmaker, actor and screenwriter K Bhagyaraj was cremated with full state honours at the Besant Nagar electric crematorium on Sunday.

The 73-year-old filmmaker, fondly known as the "King of Screenplay" in Tamil cinema, died of a massive cardiac arrest on June 27. He was rushed to a private hospital after experiencing chest pain following his routine morning walk, but doctors were unable to save him.

In recognition of his immense contribution to Tamil cinema, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay announced that Bhagyaraj would be accorded full state honours. His mortal remains were kept at his residence in Nungambakkam, where political leaders, film personalities, colleagues, fans and well-wishers gathered to pay their final respects.

Among those who paid floral tributes were CM Vijay, superstar Rajinikanth, DMK chief M.K. Stalin and several other prominent leaders and members of the film fraternity.

As a mark of respect, the Tamil film industry cancelled all shooting schedules on Sunday. Former assistants, colleagues and proteges, including actor-director Parthiban, director Pandiraj, and actors Radikaa and Sarathkumar, were also present to support the family and coordinate the public homage.

Over a career spanning five decades, Bhagyaraj directed more than 25 films and acted in over 75. Widely admired for his unique storytelling style, he won acclaim for bringing relatable middle-class stories to Tamil cinema. Some of his most celebrated works include Mundhanai Mudichu, Andha 7 Naatkal and Chinna Veedu.

He is survived by his wife, actor Poornima Bhagyaraj, son Shanthanu and daughter Saranya.

PTI