Condolences poured in from film and political personalities in Tamil Nadu for actor-director K. Bhagyaraj, who passed away at age 73 following a heart attack on Saturday (June 27, 2026).

“The passing away of veteran Tamil film director and writer Thiru. K. Bhagyaraj is a great loss to the world of cinema,” wrote Tamil Nadu Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar on X. “His unique storytelling, creative brilliance, and immense contribution to Tamil cinema have earned him a special place in the hearts of audiences. His legacy will continue to inspire generations of filmmakers and film lovers. I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and countless admirers. May his soul rest in peace,” he said.

Announcing that Bhagyaraj will be laid to rest with full State honours, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay, in a post on X, said: “Through films that reflect unique storytelling, humour-infused performances, and the profound emotions of rural life and family relationships, Thiru. K. Bhagyaraj has carved an everlasting place in the hearts of Tamil people. His contributions to the Tamil film world are immeasurable.”

“Each of his creations will endure forever as timeless memories that entertain while speaking to humanity and social values. His demise is an irreplaceable loss to Tamil cinema. I convey my deepest condolences and sympathies to his grieving family, relatives, friends, members of the film industry, and fans. I pray that his soul rests in peace at the divine feet of the Lord,” Mr. Vijay wrote.

Also read: Bhagyaraj death LIVE updates

‘A realistic hero’

Former Chief Minister and DMK president M.K. Stalin, referring to legendary Tamil film director and actor Bharathiraja who passed away earlier this month, said: “Within just a few weeks of the teacher’s passing, the Tamil film world has now lost his student as well!”

“In Indian cinema, as the emperor of unfinished screenplays, as the realistic hero who captivated everyone, as a writer endowed with the ability to navigate complex situations with brief dialogues, and as an extraordinary director who triumphed in every aspect, Bhagyaraj made his mark,” Mr. Stalin said in a post on X.

Expressing shock and sadness over his demise, AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami hailed Bhagyaraj as a multifaceted personality and a unique screenplay writer. He recalled that the relationship between AIADMK founder and former Chief Minister M.G. Ramachandran and Bhagyaraj was based on mutual affection.

Union Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting and Parliamentary Affairs L. Murugan said: “Having recently completed his 50-year landmark journey in the film industry and being specially praised by members of the film world and fans alike, his demise is an irreplaceable loss to the Tamil film industry.”

DMK MP Thamizhachi Thangapandian, condoling his death, said Bhagyaraj, through his various creations including Mundhanai Mudichu, Idhu Namma Aalu, Thaavani Kaanavugal, and Thooraal Ninnu Pochchu, carved a niche for himself in Tamil cinema. MP Kanimozhi Karunanidhi said through his immensely popular films, he left an indelible mark on Tamil cinema and made significant contributions to the industry over a career spanning five decades.

BJP State president Nainar Nagenthran, expressing his condolences, said, “His works continue to serve as exemplary lessons even today on how the screenplay of a film should be structured. By seamlessly blending simple narratives, humor, family sentiments, and engaging screenplays in his distinctive style, he has gifted Tamil cinema with timeless creations that will endure for countless generations.”

Former BJP State president K. Annamalai said Mr. Bhagyaraj’s demise has come as a great shock and caused deep sorrow. “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.

‘Towering figure’

MP and VCK founder-president Thol Thirumavalavan described Mr. Bhagyaraj as a towering figure in the world of cinema. “AIADMK founder and former Chief Minister M.G. Ramachandran referred to him as his ‘film heir’. He earned the reputation of being one of the finest screenplay writers. Many would look forward to his films,” he said.

MP D. Ravikumar, expressing his condolences, said: “Even in films made primarily for commercial entertainment, he consistently conveyed ideas that encouraged social reform. Death has snatched him away suddenly. The void created by his passing in Tamil cinema can never truly be filled.”

DMDK MLA Premallatha Vijayakant said Bhagyaraj “and our party founder-president Captain Vijayakanth shared a long-standing bond of love and friendship. In particular, the memories of the two working together in the film ‘Sokathangam’ are unforgettable forever. The friendship and contributions of Bhagyaraj in Captain’s artistic journey will be remembered eternally.”

‘Ardent MGR fan’

General secretary of the All India Puratchi Thalaivar Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam (AIPTMMK), V.K. Sasikala, in a post, said that Mr. Bhagyaraj had received several awards. Besides being an “ardent fan” of M.G. Ramachandran, Mr. Bhagyaraj also had respect for Jayalalithaa, Ms. Sasikala said, recalling the period when they were both in politics together.

AMMK general secretary T.T.V. Dhinakaran recalled Mr. Bhagyaraj’s contributions to the film world and said he was a mentor to many young directors.

Tamil Maanila Congress president G.K. Vasan, in his condolence message, hailed Mr. Bhagyaraj’s remarkable contributions as a director, actor, screenwriter, writer, producer, composer, journalist, and politician, noting 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 screenplay. The films he took, the subjects he touched upon, his screenplay was welcomed by audience. Bhagyaraj was the first student of the legendary director K. Bharathiraja and he gave several hit films and touched phenomenal heights.”

‘Tamil cinema lost two Rajas’

Actor and Makkal Needhi Mariam chief Kamal Hassan said “Bhagyaraj’s Raja (to whom I was introduced to 50 years ago) is no more today. Tamil cinema has lost two Rajas within the same month.”

Actor-producer Daggubati Venkatesh said on X: “His work transcended languages and touched the hearts of millions. I feel fortunate to have been a part of films like Sundarakanda and Abbaigaru, which were born from his remarkable storytelling. Indian cinema has lost one of its finest filmmakers.”

Actor Sibi Sathyaraj said the “king of screenplay” is no more. This is a huge loss to the film industry, he said, conveying his deepest condolences to Bhagyaraj’s family, friends, and fans.

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 he was deeply shocked and devastated by Bhagyaraj’s demise. He was “my great friend and support in the film industry for many years,” he said.

Actor Rohini Molleti paid her “heartfelt tributes” to Bhagyaraj and extended her “deepest condolences” to his family. “Whenever we met, he would fondly call me ‘Pavunu’. Sir, when will we ever see a storyteller like you again?” she posted. Actor Harish Kalyan said Bhagyaraj’s films and his writing will “live on in our hearts forever. His legacy of brilliant films and unforgettable performances will continue to guide and inspire us forever.”

Actor Simran described Bhagyaraj as a visionary filmmaker, brilliant storyteller, and exceptional actor. “He brought laughter, warmth, and meaningful social messages through his work. Tamil cinema has lost one of its finest creative minds,” she said.

Actor Chiranjeevi, in a post, said he was deeply shocked and heartbroken beyond words. “Just the day before yesterday, we were together in Goa at Kush’s [Khushbu Sundar’s daughter’s] wedding, laughing, sharing jokes, and taking pictures. Bhagyaraj garu was full of life and joy. To wake up to the news of his passing this morning is simply unbelievable.”

‘Unmatched creativity’

The Tamil Film Active Producers Association expressed profound grief over the passing of Mr. Bhagyaraj. It said his screenplays travelled across languages through remakes. He redefined screenplay writing with his unmatched creativity, wit, and deep understanding of human emotions. His films entertained generations while inspiring countless filmmakers and screenwriters to look at storytelling through a fresh and intelligent lens.

With his distinctive blend of humour and emotion, he beautifully portrayed the lives of ordinary people, family relationships, and social realities. He was a rare artist who made people laugh while also making them think, said actor Sarathkumar.

‘Bond with Malayalam cinema’

Chief Minister of Keralam V.D. Satheesan said he was deeply saddened by the passing of Mr. Bhagyaraj. “Revered 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. Marumakan continues to be fondly remembered by fans in Keralam,” Mr. Satheesan said.

Former Keralam Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said he left a unique mark in the Tamil film world and earned the love of Malayalis through his excellent creations. “His demise is an irreplaceable loss to the film industry and the cultural sector,” he said.