Tamil filmmaker Bharathiraja stable, responding to treatment for breathlessness: Hospital
What's the story
Legendary Tamil filmmaker Bharathiraja (84) was recently admitted to a Chennai hospital after he complained of breathlessness. The hospital has now issued a statement saying his condition is stable and he is under observation. The director is "receiving appropriate medical care in the intensive care unit," per the hospital.
Health update
Hospital statement on Bharathiraja's health
As reported by Cinema Express, the hospital's statement read, "Mr Bharathiraja, renowned movie director, is presently admitted at MGM Healthcare, Aminjikkarai, following complaints of breathlessness." "His clinical condition is stable, and he continues to be under close monitoring by our team of medical experts. With appropriate support, his vital parameters remain within normal limits."
Emotional turmoil
Bharathiraja's recent health issues and personal loss
Bharathiraja had been living with his daughter in Malaysia for treatment for a few months before returning to Chennai. He has also been dealing with the emotional trauma of losing his son, actor-director Manoj Bharathiraja, who passed away in March 2025 due to a cardiac arrest. In an interview, Bharathiraja's brother Jayaraj Periyamayathevar revealed that the director has been unable to cope with this loss.
Career highlights
Bharathiraja's contributions to Tamil cinema
Bharathiraja is known for directing critically acclaimed films like 16 Vayathinile (1977), Kizhakke Pogum Rail (1978), Sigappu Rojakkal (1978), Nizhalgal (1980), Alaigal Oivathillai (1981), Tik Tik Tik (1981), Oru Kaidhiyin Diary (1985), Mudhal Mariyathai (1985) and Kizhakku Cheemayile (1993). He last directed Meendum Oru Mariyathai in 2020 and has also acted in films, with his latest appearance being in Tharun Moorthy's Mohanlal-Shobana starrer Thudarum. He was honored with the Padma Shri in 2004.