Radhika Sarathkumar Remembers K Bhagyaraj: A Call for Dignity at Funerals
A Heartfelt Tribute to a Cinematic Legend
Chennai: On Monday, actress and producer Radhika Sarathkumar shared a poignant message on social media, honoring her long-time friend, the renowned director K Bhagyaraj, who passed away recently. Their friendship spanned over five decades, and Radhika emphasized the need for better crowd and media management during funerals.
In her emotional tribute, she expressed, "Saying farewell to 50 years of a unique friendship with a remarkable creator and a talented writer who set significant standards in cinema. He was a man with whom I shared countless laughs and meaningful projects, always supporting my family in his quiet, loyal manner."
Final goodbye,to 50 years of a very special friendship ,a great creator,a evolved writer,a person who drew wonderful boundaries in Cinema,a man I shared many laughs,wonderful work, who stood by my family always in his quiet loyal way. A shocking goodbye, for his family, friends,… pic.twitter.com/8GeRJ5sipP
— Radikaa Sarathkumar (@realradikaa) June 29, 2026
Radhika further lamented, "It’s a shocking farewell for his family, friends, and fans. A moment meant for reflection turned into a spectacle, raising questions about our societal callousness. It’s time for the government and industry to establish protocols that ensure dignity for the departed."
Her remarks come as many close to Bhagyaraj have had to request privacy during their time of mourning.
For those unfamiliar, K Bhagyaraj, a celebrated screenplay writer and director in Tamil cinema, passed away at the age of 73 due to a cardiac arrest. He is survived by his wife, Poornima, and their children, Shanthnu and Saranya.
Sources indicate that Bhagyaraj experienced chest pain after his morning walk and was rushed to a private hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
The news of his passing has cast a shadow over the Tamil film industry, which is still reeling from the loss of another icon, K Bharathirajaa, just weeks prior.
Numerous actors, directors, and industry professionals from across the nation have expressed their sorrow and shock at the sudden loss of this legendary figure in Tamil cinema.