Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay paid his last respects to legendary filmmaker and actor Bharathiraja at his Chennai residence following the veteran director's passing. Describing the loss as an irreplaceable blow to Tamil cinema, CM Vijay also announced that Bharathiraja would be accorded full state honours during his final journey. Bharathiraja, widely regarded as one of the most influential filmmakers in Indian cinema, transformed Tamil filmmaking by bringing rural stories, authentic characters, and realistic storytelling to the big screen. Over a career spanning more than four decades, he directed numerous acclaimed films and introduced several actors, technicians, and filmmakers who went on to shape the industry.