Film and political personalities in Tamil Nadu expressed condolences to the actor-director. Of. Bhagyaraj passed away at the age of 73 After suffering a heart attack on Saturday (June 27, 2026).
Tamil Nadu Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar wrote on Twitter, “The demise of veteran Tamil film director and writer Thiru K. Bhagyaraj is a great loss to the world of cinema.”
Announcing that Bhagyaraj would be cremated with full state honours, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay said in a post on Twitter: “Through films that reflect unique storytelling, humorous performances and deep emotions of rural life and family relationships, Thiru. K. Bhagyaraj has carved an everlasting place in the hearts of the Tamil people. His contribution to the Tamil film industry is immeasurable.”
“Each of his works will forever remain as timeless memories that entertain while speaking of humanity and social values. His demise is an irreparable loss to Tamil cinema. I express my deepest condolences and sympathies to his bereaved family, relatives, friends, members of the film industry and fans. I pray that his soul rests in peace at the divine feet of God,” Mr Vijay wrote.
Also read: Bhagyaraj’s death live updates
‘A realistic hero’
Former Chief Minister and DMK President MK Stalin mentioned famous Tamil film director and actor Bharathiraja who died earlier this monthSaid: “Within just a few weeks of the teacher’s demise, the Tamil film industry has now lost its student too!”
“In Indian cinema, as the emperor of unfinished scripts, as a realistic hero who enthralled everyone, as a writer endowed with the ability to navigate complex situations with concise dialogues, and as an extraordinary director who triumphed in every aspect, Bhagyaraj left his mark,” Mr. Stalin said in a post on X.
Expressing shock and grief over his demise, AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami praised Bhagyaraj as a multidimensional personality and unique screenwriter. He reminded that the relationship between AIADMK founder and former chief minister MG Ramachandran and Bhagyaraj was based on mutual affection.
Union Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting and Parliamentary Affairs L. Murugan said: “Recently Completed its historic journey of 50 years Highly praised in the film industry and especially by film fraternity members and fans, his demise is an irreparable loss to the Tamil film industry.
DMK MP Thamizhachi Thangapandian expressed his condolences on his demise through his various works including Bhagyaraj. Mundnai Mudichu, Idhu Namma Potato, Thavani KanavugalAnd Thural Ninnu PochchuMade a distinct identity for himself in Tamil cinema. MP Kanimozhi Karunanidhi said that through his hugely popular films, he left an indelible mark on Tamil cinema and made significant contributions to the industry in a career spanning five decades.
BJP state president Nainar Nagenthran expressed his condolences, saying, “His works even today serve as exemplary lessons on how a film script should be structured. By combining simple narratives, humour, family sentiments and engaging screenplays in his distinctive style, he has gifted Tamil cinema with timeless creations that will endure for countless generations.”
Former state president of BJP K. Annamalai said that Bhagyaraj’s demise is a big shock and deeply saddened. “Through his films, he earned the immense affection of the people of Tamil Nadu. He was also known for his simplicity and humility,” he said in a post on X.
‘Big personality’
Thol, MP and founder-president of VCK. Thirumavalavan described Bhagyaraj as a great personality in the world of cinema. He said, “AIADMK founder and former Chief Minister MG Ramachandran called him his ‘film successor’. He earned the reputation of being one of the finest screenwriters. Many will look forward to his films.”
MP D. Ravikumar expressed his condolences, saying, “Even in films made primarily for commercial entertainment, he consistently expressed ideas that encouraged social reform. Death has snatched him away suddenly. The void created by his demise in Tamil cinema can never truly be filled.”
DMDK MLA Premalatha Vijayakanth said that Bhagyaraj “and our party’s founder-president Captain Vijayakanth have had a long-standing relationship of love and friendship. In particular, the memories of working with both of them in the film ‘Sokthangam’ are forever unforgettable. Bhagyaraj’s friendship and contribution to Captain’s artistic journey will always be remembered.”
‘Enthusiastic MGR fan’
All India Puratchi Thalaivar Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam (AIPTMMK) general secretary VK Sasikala said in a post that Bhagyaraj has received many awards. Apart from being an “ardent admirer” of MG Ramachandran, Mr Bhagyaraj also had respect for Jayalalithaa, Ms Sasikala said, recalling the period when both of them were in politics together.
AMMK general secretary TTV Dhinakaran recalled Bhagyaraj’s contribution to the film industry and said that he was a mentor to many young directors.
Tamil Manila Congress President GK Vasan, in his condolence message, lauded Bhagyaraj’s remarkable contributions as a director, actor, screenwriter, author, producer, musician, journalist and politician, and said that his innovative storytelling and lasting impact on Tamil cinema earned him widespread admiration.
Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK) chief coordinator Seeman said: “Bhagyaraj was an encyclopedia in screenplays. The films he took, the subjects he touched upon and his scripts were welcomed by the audience. Bhagyaraj was the first student of the great director K. Bharathiraja and gave many hits and touched unprecedented heights.”
‘Tamil cinema has lost two kings’
Actor and Makkal Needhi Mariam chief Kamal Haasan said, “The king of Bhagyaraj (whom I was introduced to 50 years ago) is no more. Tamil cinema has lost two kings in the same month.”
Actor-producer Daggubati Venkatesh said on X: “His work transcended languages and touched the hearts of millions of people. I feel lucky to be a part of films like his.” Sunderkand And abbaigaruWhich were born out of his remarkable storytelling. Indian cinema has lost one of its finest filmmakers.”
Actor Sibi Sathyaraj said the “King of the Script” is no more. He expressed his deepest condolences to Bhagyaraj’s family, friends and fans, saying it is a great loss to the film industry.
Choreographer, actor and director Raghava Lawrence said he was deeply saddened by the demise of Bhagyaraj. “His contribution to cinema is unforgettable and his work has inspired generations. This is a great loss to the film industry.”
Film producer G. Dhananjheyan said that he was deeply shocked and saddened by the demise of Bhagyaraj. “He was a very good friend and colleague of mine in the film industry for many years,” he said.
Actress Rohini Moleti paid a “heartfelt tribute” to Bhagyaraj and expressed her “deepest condolences” to his family. “Whenever we met, he used to affectionately call me ‘Pavunu’. Sir, when will we see a storyteller like you again?” He posted. Actor Harish Kalyan said that Bhagyaraj’s films and his writings “will always live on in our hearts. His legacy of brilliant films and unforgettable performances will always guide and inspire us.”
Actress Simran described Bhagyaraj as a visionary filmmaker, a brilliant storyteller and an extraordinary actor. He said, “He brought laughter, warmth and meaningful social messages through his work. Tamil cinema has lost one of its finest creative minds.”
Actor Chiranjeevi said in a post that he is deeply shocked and heartbroken beyond words. “Just the day before yesterday, we were together in Goa at Kush’s (Khushboo Sundar’s daughter) wedding, laughing, sharing jokes and taking pictures. Bhagyaraj garu was full of life and happiness. It is absolutely incredible to wake up to the news of his demise this morning.”
‘Outstanding Creativity’
Tamil Film Active Producers Association has expressed deep sorrow on the demise of Bhagyaraj. It states that his scripts travel through remakes into different languages. He redefined screenwriting with his unmatched creativity, intelligence and deep understanding of human emotions. His films have entertained generations and inspired countless filmmakers and screenwriters to look at storytelling from a new and intelligent perspective.
With his distinctive blend of humor and emotion, he beautifully portrayed the lives of common people, family relationships and social realities. Actor Sarathkumar said, he was a rare artiste who could make people laugh as well as think.
‘Connection with Malayalam cinema’
Kerala Chief Minister VD Satheesan said he was deeply saddened by the demise of Bhagyaraj. “Regarded as the ‘Screenplay King’, he redefined storytelling in Tamil cinema with his unique creative vision and unforgettable performances. He also shared a special bond with Malayalam cinema – his memorable role in Mr. Marumkan is still fondly remembered by fans in Keralam,” Mr. Satheesan said.
Former Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said he left a unique mark in the Tamil film industry and earned the love of Malayalees through his excellent works. He said, “His demise is an irreparable loss to the film industry and cultural sector.”
