For Vidaarth, who worked with veteran filmmaker Bharathiraja on Kurangu Bommai (2017), his demise on Wednesday "shocked" and "saddened" him. "I wanted to visit him when he was ailing, but doctors advised us against it, fearing spread of infections. Now, I feel bad about not being able to see him for one last time," the actor says with a heavy heart, in an exclusive interview with Cinema Express.
Vidaarth says Bharathiraja was like a father to him. “More than being an 'Iyakkunar Imayam' or the director who gave me opportunities as an actor, we shared a deep personal bond. He even helped me search for a house three or four years ago,” he recalls.
"There was a man working in his house who was helping me in this regard. When I came to his Bharathiraja's house to enquire about the same, the director asked me what the issue was. When I told him that I was looking for houses, he said he would personally accompany me. He looked at four to five houses and suggested me which would be the best one for me and my family. He would even give keys to his own residence when we go to his hometown," he adds, calling it an "unforgettable moment" in his life.
Recollecting Bharathiraja’s invaluable advice, Vidaarth shares how the veteran filmmaker encouraged him to explore acting opportunities beyond Tamil cinema, even suggesting projects in West Bengal. "He called me a brilliant actor. More than a mentor, he was someone who made sure to remain a part of your life—through both the good and bad moments in life," he notes.
Like everyone else, Vidaarth too was personally affected by Bharathiraja's son Manoj's unprecedented demise in March last year. "Manoj and I were very close. He has stayed in my house and we have also discussed many stories. I couldn't digest his death back then. I was with Bharathiraja sir the whole day. Now, hearing about veteran's demise, I am unable to get out of the shock. I am in disbelief. This is not a formal demise, but has struck grief in our hearts. I have also seen and lived with him up close when we had travelled together. We became so connected during the time," he says.
Calling it a "black day" for cinema, Vidaarth emphasised the director's efforts in bringing films out of the sets and into the countryside. "Each film in Bharathiraja's filmography is unique. He has done it all. His death hits home. He may not be there with us anymore, but his efforts and films will continue to live among us," he adds.
Besides Kurangu Bommai, the duo have also worked together on the unreleased film November 8, Iravu 8 Mani in 2018 which revolves around issues surrounding the aftermath of the demonetisation announcement. "I had completed my portions and even dubbed for it. Director Ram was also set to star, but it remains in the cans," he says, expressing his sadness.
Bharathiraja's health had been deteriorating ever since his son Manoj passed away due to a cardiac arrest at the mere age of 48, back in March 2025.
He made his directorial debut with 16 Vayathinile in 1977. In his five-decade-long career, the veteran was known for bringing Tamil cinema, rooted, rustic and realistic stories, which were mostly set in the villages. Bharathiraja's popular directorials include Kizhake Pogum Rail, 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.
