PremiumManoj Bharathiraja dies at 48; Kamal Haasan, Ilaiyaraaja and others pay last respect
Manoj, last seen in the Tamil web series Snakes and Ladders, is survived by his wife and two daughters.
Last Updated: 08.46 AM, Mar 26, 2025
Veteran director Bharathiraja’s son and actor Manoj Bharathiraja's demise came as a shock to the film industry, during the evening hours of Tuesday. Manoj suffered from cardiac arrest and died at the age of 48. Following the unfortunate incident, condolences poured in from the film fraternity, offering support to the bereaved family.
Manoj Bharathiraja dies at 48; Condolences pour in
Actor Manoj Bharathiraja, who was last seen in the 2024 Tamil web series Snakes and Ladders, died during the evening hours of Tuesday after suffering cardiac arrest. He was 48 at the time of his death and is survived by his wife and two daughters. The final rites of the actor took place at his residence in Chennai, with many members of the film fraternity pouring in their condolences.
Music composer Ilaiyaraaja was the first to send his condolences. Ilaiyaraaja, who has worked closely with Bharathiraja, said that he is shocked by the demise and that he is saddened by the turn of events. He prayed that Manoj's soul would rest in peace and hoped that the bereaved family would find strength during these difficult times.
“Extremely shocked to hear that Manoj is not among us anymore. His untimely demise pains. He was just 48 yrs. May God give the strength to his father Thiru #Bharathiraaja avl and his family to overcome this unbearable painful loss. You will be missed Manoj. Rest in peace,” wrote actor Khushbu.
Others from the film and political fraternity also took to social media to share their last respects to Manoj.
Where to watch Manoj Bharathiraja’s debut film Taj Mahal on OTT
Manoj Bharathiraja made his acting debut with the 1999 film Taj Mahal, which was directed by his father Bharathiraja. The film stars Manoj, and Riya Sen in their debuts, along with Revathi, Radhika, and Ranjitha. AR Rahman scored the music. Taj Mahal is available for streaming on SunNXT and OTTplay Premium at discounted prices. The film revolves around two lovers who come from communities which are in constant conflict.