India, June 10 -- Filmmaker Bharathiraja, who was known for his unique storytelling and portrayal of rural life and inspiring generations of filmmakers and artists, passed away in Chennai on Wednesday. He was 84.

A recipient of India's fourth-highest civilian award, the Padma Shri, six national, four Filmfare, and six Tamil Nadu film awards, Bharathiraja is survived by his wife, Chandraleela, and their daughter, Janani. His son, Manoj, passed away at 48 in March 2025.

Born Chinnasamy on July 17, 1941, in Theni, Bharathirajaa, a screenwriter and director, shot to fame with films such as "16 Vayathinile", with icon actor Kamal Haasan playing the lead role and superstar Rajinikanth as the antagonist.

Bharathirajaa directed over 40 films i...