Chennai, June 27 (IANS) Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay on Saturday announced that veteran filmmaker, actor and screenwriter K. Bhagyaraj would be accorded full state honours during his final rites, describing his death as an irreparable loss to Tamil cinema and the cultural life of the State.

Bhagyaraj, 73, passed away earlier in the day after suffering a heart attack, triggering an outpouring of grief from the film fraternity, political leaders and millions of admirers across Tamil Nadu.

Announcing the state honours, the Chief Minister said the gesture was a mark of the government’s recognition of Bhagyaraj’s extraordinary contribution to Indian cinema over several decades. Vijay also expressed profound sorrow over the veteran filmmaker’s demise, saying Tamil cinema had lost one of its most creative and influential personalities.

In a condolence message, the Chief Minister hailed Bhagyaraj as a rare multi-faceted talent who excelled as a director, actor, screenwriter, dialogue writer, producer and music composer. He said Bhagyaraj carved a unique identity in Tamil cinema through his distinctive storytelling style, natural humour and realistic portrayal of rural life and family relationships.

Vijay noted that Bhagyaraj’s films entertained audiences while reflecting human values and social concerns, making them enduring classics that continue to resonate across generations. He said the filmmaker’s body of work had secured him a permanent place in the hearts of Tamil audiences and would remain an enduring part of the State’s cinematic legacy.

Describing the veteran’s passing as an immense loss, the Chief Minister conveyed his heartfelt sympathies to Bhagyaraj’s family, friends, colleagues and countless fans. He also prayed for the departed soul to rest in peace.

Bhagyaraj was widely regarded as one of the defining creative forces in Tamil cinema. After beginning his career as an assistant director under acclaimed filmmaker Bharathiraja, he made his directorial debut with Suvarillatha Chithirangal in 1979. He went on to script and direct a series of commercially successful and critically acclaimed films that became benchmarks for family entertainment.

Known for his sharp screenplays, memorable dialogues and relatable characters, Bhagyaraj successfully balanced commercial appeal with meaningful storytelling. His contributions earned him several prestigious honours, including Filmfare Awards and Tamil Nadu State Film Awards.

His death has prompted tributes from across the political spectrum and the film industry, with colleagues and admirers remembering him as an innovative storyteller whose influence on Tamil cinema will continue to inspire generations of filmmakers and audiences alike.

–IANS

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