Ananya Lohia , Chennai - Veteran Tamil filmmaker, actor and writer K Bhagyaraj passed away in Chennai today after suffering a heart attack. He was 73. A celebrated figure in Tamil cinema, Bhagyaraj was known for his unique blend of humour and socially relevant storytelling that earned him a loyal audience across generations.

Bhagyaraj is survived by his wife, former actress Poornima Bhagyaraj, son Shanthanu Bhagyaraj and daughter Saranya Bhagyaraj. He remained active in public life until his final days and had recently attended the wedding celebrations of Khushbu Sundar's daughter in Goa. Beginning his career as an assistant director, Bhagyaraj rose to prominence through his work as a writer, actor and filmmaker. Bhagyaraj grew up admiring two very different icons, MG Ramachandran and Rajesh Khanna which player a very important role in his career in very unexpected ways decades later.

He made his directorial debut with Suvarilladha Chiththirangal in 1979 and went on to deliver several memorable films, including Mundhanai Mudichu, Chinna Veedu, Darling Darling Darling, Sundara Kandam and Enga Chinna Rasa. Often writing, directing and starring in his own films, Bhagyaraj carved a niche with stories centred on ordinary people, witty dialogues and relatable humour. He also introduced actresses Urvashi and Kalpana to Tamil cinema and saw many of his successful films remade in Hindi. He also won the filmfare Award for best actor in Tamil.

With a career spanning over four decades, Bhagyaraj leaves behind a rich cinematic legacy that shaped Tamil cinema in the 1980s and beyond. His storytelling, humour and contribution to the industry will continue to be remembered by filmmakers and audiences alike.