The Tamil film fraternity is still reeling from the tragic passing of veteran filmmaker-actor K Bhagyaraj. Condolences have been pouring in from all quarters with many actors, filmmakers and noted members in the industry making a beeline to his house to pay their last respects.

CM Vijay, who shares a close bond with Bhagyaraj as well as his son Shanthnu, visited his residence to pay his floral tribute to the veteran. He later hugged a grieving and distraught Shanthnu and consoled him. Shanthnu then thanked Vijay with folded hands. The politician then departed to continue his duties. Vijay has also promised state honours for the veteran's funeral, which is scheduled to take place tomorrow, Sunday, at 1.30 pm.

It was only recently that members of the South Indian Film Writers’ Association, led by veteran actor-director K Bhagyaraj met Vijay after he took oath as the CM. He further quoted lines from the iconic song 'Neenga Nalla Irukkanum' from former late CM MG Ramachandran's 1975 film Idhayakkani while wishing him for a successful tenure.

Bhagyaraj first started out with a small cameo appearance, as a junior artist, in Bharathiraja's debut, 16 Vayathinile (1977) and then briefly appeared in the director's Sigappu Rojakkal (1978) where he also wrote dialogues for it. He served as an assistant director to the late filmmaker before making his directorial debut with Suvarilladha Chiththirangal (1979).

His most notable films include Suvarilladha Chiththirangal (1979), Oru Kai Osai (1980), Mouna Geethangal (1981), Andha 7 Naatkal (1981), Darling, Darling, Darling (1982), Mundhanai Mudichu (1983), Dhavani Kanavugal (1984), Chinna Veedu (1985), Enga Chinna Rasa (1987), and Avasara Police 100 (1990).