Actor-producer Radikaa Sarathkumar is still struggling to come to terms with the demise of her mentor and legendary filmmaker Bharathiraja. Mourning the profound loss, she shared an emotional note on social media, revealing that she has lost two of the most important pillars in her life—her mother and her guru—within the span of a single year.
"The two people who shaped me are my mother and my guru, Bharathiraja. Within this single year, I have lost both of these pillars of my life. I cannot describe this pain in words. Words fail me. My heart feels heavy," she wrote, stating that their memories and life lessons will continue to guide her in her journey. Radikaa also shared two photos with the filmmaker. The actor was among the first to head to his residence in Neelankarai and stayed with his family for several hours.
In her note, she also thanked those who understood her grief, stood by her and "showered me with their love and support."
The loss is deeply personal for Radikaa because Bharathiraja wasn't just a director she worked with, but was the filmmaker who introduced her to cinema and launched her acting career through Kizhakke Pogum Rail in 1978. Radikaa has repeatedly referred to him as her guru (mentor) and credited him for shaping her as a female lead. They later collaborated on Kizhakku Cheemayile in 1993. Despite their limited film ventures, Radikaa shared a close bond with the filmmaker over the decades. In 2020, Radikaa publicly told Bharathiraja, "I am who I am only because of you," after he congratulated her on completing 42 years in the industry.
Recently, took his time out to watch Radikaa Sarathkumar's latest film Thaai Kizhavi. When the leading actor paid a visit to the veteran, he hailed her performance and said she deserves a National Award for it.
Bharathiraja enjoyed a prolific career over the last five decades, making over 40 films and proving his mettle as a legendary filmmaker whose stories set in villages resonated worldwide. He made his directorial debut with 16 Vayathinile in 1977. His popular works include Sigappu Rojakkal, Alaigal Oivathillai, Kaadhal Oviyam, and Mudhal Mariyathai, among others. His most recent work as a director was a segment from Modern Love Chennai (2023), titled Paravai Kootil Vaazhum Maangal.
Following tributes from the public and numerous members of the film fraternity, Bharathiraja's mortal remains arrived in Theni on Thursday morning. It will be kept for public homage, allowing residents from Theni and nearby areas to pay their last respects. His final rites are scheduled to take place in his hometown at around 3 pm.