Veteran Tamil film star, actor and cinematographer K Bhagyaraj was cremated with full honors at the Besant Nagar Electric Crematorium in Chennai on Sunday, a day after he died of a heart attack. He was 73 years old.On Sunday, Bhagyaraj’s body was taken in a funeral procession through the streets of Chennai to a mortuary. Actors R Parthiban and R Sarathkumar joined his family members to carry the casket during the procession. A floral wreath inscribed with the words, “With Love, Yours, Bhagyaraj,” accompanied the group, along with a photograph of Bhagyaraj and his ex. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MG Ramachandran.Before the cremation, Bhagyaraj was given all the state honors in recognition of his immense contribution to Tamil cinema. His last rites were performed in the presence of family members, colleagues and close friends from the industry.Bhagyaraj’s last visit saw an outpouring of grief from relatives, friends, political leaders and thousands of admirers, who gathered to bid farewell to one of the legendaries of Tamil cinema. His remains were kept at his residence in Nungambakkam on Saturday, where actors, filmmakers, politicians and fans paid their last respects throughout the day.Some of the people who went to his house were Rajinikanth, Kamal Haasan, DhanushSivakarthikeyan, Karthi, R Sarathkumar, Khushbu Sundar, Sundar C, and several other well known Tamil film industry. One of the most touching moments came when Dhanush was seen breaking down while paying his respects, with pictures of the actor struggling to hold back tears going viral on social media.Soon after news of his death broke on Saturday, many people came from the film and political circles. Rajinikanth, Kamal Haasan, Khushbu Sundar, Radhika Sarathkumar, Sivakarthikeyan, Venkat Prabhuand several others remember Bhagyaraj as a visionary artist, talented writer and mentor whose films left an indelible mark on Tamil cinema. Political leaders, including Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin, also expressed their grief, acknowledging that they would forever contribute to the state’s culture.Born in Vellankoil in Erode district, Bhagyaraj built an amazing career that spanned many years. Accomplished as a director, actor, screenwriter, dialogue writer and singer, he is known for his unique storytelling, well-known characters and sharp humor. His legacy continues to inspire generations of filmmakers and audiences alike.
