K Bhagyaraj's final gift: Family donates his eyes as Tamil cinema bids an emotional farewell

Chennai: Veteran actor, filmmaker and screenwriter K Bhagyaraj was cremated with full state honours in Chennai as family, political leaders and members of the Tamil film industry gathered to bid an emotional farewell to one of Tamil cinema's most celebrated storytellers.

Tamil cinema bid an emotional farewell to veteran actor, filmmaker and screenwriter K Bhagyaraj, who was cremated with full state honours in Chennai on Sunday, a day after he died following a cardiac arrest at the age of 73.

Known as the "King of Screenplay", Bhagyaraj left behind a cinematic legacy spanning more than five decades. His death has prompted an outpouring of grief from actors, filmmakers, political leaders and fans across the country.

Bhagyaraj cremated with full state honours

Bhagyaraj's final rites were held at the Besant Nagar electric crematorium in Chennai with full state honours announced by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay in recognition of his immense contribution to Tamil cinema.

His mortal remains were kept at his residence in Nungambakkam, where hundreds of admirers, colleagues and political leaders gathered to pay their last respects.

Among those who visited were Rajinikanth, M.K. Stalin, Radikaa Sarathkumar, Sarathkumar, Nassar, Parthiban, Pandiraj and several other prominent personalities from the film industry.

As a mark of respect, the Tamil film industry cancelled shooting schedules on Sunday.

Trisha recalls their final meeting

Actress Trisha Krishnan shared an emotional tribute on social media, revealing that she had shared a meal with Bhagyaraj just a day before his sudden demise.

In her Instagram Story, she wrote: "RIP dear Bhagyaraj sir. It is hard to believe we were just sharing a meal together yesterday and I hear this heartbreaking news today. All my love and strength to Poornima Maam, Shanthanu, Amlu, Kiki."

Her message reflected the shock felt across the industry, with many remembering Bhagyaraj's warmth and humility during his final public appearances.

 

 

Bhagyaraj had attended actress Khushbu Sundar's daughter Avantika's wedding celebrations in Goa just two days before his death.

 

After sharing wedding moments on social media, Khushbu faced criticism from some users questioning the timing of her posts.

Responding to one such comment, she defended her decision, saying her daughter had just been married and that she shared a close bond with Bhagyaraj's family. She also paid tribute to the filmmaker, remembering the joyful moments they had shared over the years.

As Bhagyaraj's mortal remains were brought home, actress Radikaa Sarathkumar, who accompanied the family from the hospital, made an emotional appeal to the media.

Requesting privacy for the grieving family, she urged photographers to respect the solemn occasion and avoid turning the funeral into a spectacle.

A legacy that changed Tamil cinema

Beginning his career under legendary filmmaker Bharathiraja, Bhagyaraj went on to become one of Tamil cinema's most influential writers and directors.

He directed more than 25 films and acted in over 75, earning acclaim for relatable middle-class stories, memorable characters and innovative screenplays.

Some of his best-known films include Mundhanai Mudichu, Andha 7 Naatkal, Chinna Veedu, Oru Kai Osai, Mouna Geethangal and Enga Chinna Rasa.

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

With state honours, heartfelt tributes and thousands gathering to pay their respects, K Bhagyaraj's final journey reflected the immense impact he had on Tamil cinema. His films and storytelling continue to inspire generations of filmmakers and audiences alike.