Tamil actor Manoj Bharathiraja passes away at 48

Dubai: Tamil actor Manoj Bharathiraja passed away on Tuesday evening at the age of 48 after suffering a cardiac arrest. His PRO, Riaz, confirmed the news on X, noting that Manoj had recently returned home after undergoing bypass surgery.

Born in 1976 to veteran filmmaker Bharathiraja and Chandraleela, Manoj made his acting debut in his father’s 1999 film Taj Mahal. Though the film underperformed at the box office, AR Rahman’s timeless music and Bharathiraja’s visual storytelling helped Manoj leave a lasting impression on Tamil audiences.

Despite a career filled with ups and downs, Manoj starred in films like Samudhiram, Kadal Pookkal, Varushamellam Vasantham, and Eera Nilam. Transitioning from lead roles, he later appeared in supporting roles in Vaaimai, Eeswaran, Maanaadu, and Viruman.

In 2023, he made his directorial debut with Margazhi Thingal, featuring his father, Bharathiraja. His last appearance was in the Prime Video series Snakes & Ladders.

Manoj is survived by his wife, actor Nandana, and their daughters, Arshitha and Mathivadhani