Actor Manoj Bharathiraja, son of director Bharathiraja, passes away

CHENNAI: Director Bharathiraja's son Manoj Bharathiraja passed away this evening. He was 48 years old. It is reported that he died due to heart attack. He made his debut in 1999 with the film Taj Mahal and has acted in films including Kadal Pookkal, Samudhiram, Alli Arjuna, Viruman, Pallavan and Eera Nilam.

Manoj had taken a break from acting. After a long gap, he again acted as the hero in the film Annakodi, directed by his father Bharathiraja. However, the film did not receive the expected response from the audience. Manoj, who had been acting in a few films from time to time, played an important role in the 2021 film Maanadu. His character in the 2022 film Viruman also gained attention. It was said that Manoj can be expected to do more character roles from then on.

Manoj has worked as an assistant director with director Mani Ratnam before coming to act. He has worked as assistant director in hit films that include Bombay directed by Mani Ratnam and Enthiran by Shankar. In 2023, he directed the film Margazhi Thingal with Bharathiraja, Suseenthiran and newcomers.

48-year-old Manoj Bharti reportedly underwent a heart surgery a few months ago. He passed away due to a heart attack at his residence while resting after surgery. The film industry is gathering to pay tribute to Manoj. His wife is Malayali actress Nandana. They have two children.