Bharathiraja
Known for DirectingBorn 1941-07-17 — died 2026-06-10Theni, Tamil Nadu, India
Periyamayathevar Bharathiraja was an Indian film director, producer, screenwriter, and actor who worked mainly in the Tamil film industry. Making his debut in 1977 with 16 Vayathinile, he was known for realistic and sensitive portrayals of rural life in his films and popularly referred to as Iyakkunar Imayam. Bharathiraja had won six National Film Awards, four Filmfare Awards South, six Tamil Nadu State Film Awards and a Nandi Award. He also directed films in Telugu and Hindi. The Government of India honoured him with the Padma Shri award, India's fourth-highest civilian honour, in 2004 for his contribution to the film industry.
Known for
Maharaja
2024 · as Gopal Thatha
Kizhakke Pogum Rail
1978 · as Station Master (uncredited)
Thudarum
2025 · as Stunt Master Palani Swamy
Kodi Parakuthu
1989 · as GD (voice)
Alaigal Oyivadhilai
1981 · as David (voice)
Karuththamma
1994 · as Self
Mann Vasanai
1983 · as Mookkaiyan (voice)
Kuttram Kuttrame
2022 · as Retd. DSP. Muthukaruppan
Vaathi
2023 · as Villager
Vedham Pudhithu
1987 · as Widowed Forest Ranger (voice)
Valli Mayil
Niram Maaratha Pookkal
1979 · as Vijayan (voice)
Dhavani Kanavugal
1984 · as Self
Kallukul Eeram
1980 · as Self
Padai Veeran
2018 · as Krishnan
Kurangu Bommai
2017 · as Sundaram
Ninaithathu Yaaro
2014 · as Self
Idhayam
1991 · as Self