Actor-Director Manoj Bharathiraja passes away at 48 due to cardiac arrest

The film industry is mourning the sudden demise of actor and filmmaker Manoj Bharathiraja, who passed away at the age of 48 due to cardiac arrest. The shocking news has left fans and colleagues deeply saddened.
According to News18 Tamil Nadu, Manoj breathed his last on March 25 due to cardiac arrest. Manoj, the son of veteran filmmaker Bharathiraja, made his debut as a lead actor in Taj Mahal, directed by his father. Over the years, he featured in films such as Alli Arjuna, Samudhiram, Eeswaran, and Viruman. Apart from acting, he followed in his father’s footsteps and ventured into filmmaking, directing Margazhi Thingal in 2023.

Before becoming a director, Manoj worked behind the scenes as an assistant director and pursued theatre studies at the University of South Florida. He also assisted his father on projects like Final Cut of Director (2016).

In his personal life, Manoj tied the knot with actress Nandana on November 19 2006. The couple have two daughters, Arthika and Mathivadani. His untimely passing is a great loss to the Tamil film industry, leaving a void that will be hard to fill.
Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin took to his X (formerly Twitter) account to offer condolences, writing, "I am deeply saddened to hear the news of the passing of Mr. Manoj Bharathiraja, son of actor and director Bharathiraja. He made his debut with the film Taj Mahal, directed by his father, and went on to act in many films, including Samuthiram, Alli Arjuna, and Varushamellam Vasantham, leaving a mark for himself. He also tried his hand at directing. His unexpected demise at such a young age is deeply shocking. I express my deepest condolences and offer my comfort to Iyakkunar Imayam Bharathiraja, his family, and his friends in the film industry who are grieving the loss of their beloved son," he added.
Actress Khushbu Sundar wrote, "Extremely shocked to hear that Manoj is no longer with us. His untimely demise pains me. He was just 48 years old. May God give strength to his father, Thiru #Bharathiraja, and his family to overcome this unbearable, painful loss. You will be missed, Manoj." Pawan Kalyan shared his condolences in a heartfelt message, stating, "I am shocked to hear about the sudden passing of Manoj. I pray for his soul to rest in peace. My deepest condolences to Bharathiraja and his family during this difficult time." Film director Venkat Prabhu shared, "Really shocking to hear the news.. can’t believe u r no more my brother #manoj gone toooo soon… deepest condolences to @offBharathiraja uncle family and friends... may ur soul RIP:"