Tamil cinema bid farewell to one of its finest storytellers on Saturday as tributes poured in for veteran filmmaker K. Bhagyaraj, with actors and members of the film fraternity remembering his unparalleled contribution to cinema as a screenwriter, director and actor.

A steady stream of people visited his residence in Chennai since morning to pay their respects. Actors Rajinikanth, Radhika Sarathkumar, Sarathkumar, Suhasini, Parthiban, K.R. Vijaya, Nalini, Dhanush, Ambika, Jayaram, Pandiarajan, Prabhu, Goundamani, Senthil, Sathyaraj, Nasser, Sneha, and directors Maniratnam, K.S. Ravikumar, P. Vasu and Lokesh Kanagaraj were among several film personalities who paid their homage.

Actor Rajinikanth said his sudden demise has caused immense sorrow and shock. He has given many successful films through his extraordinary talent and creativity in the Tamil film industry for 50 years and earned an indelible place in the hearts of Tamil people. Actor and Makkal Needhi Maiam chief Kamal Hassan recollected that he was introduced to Bhagyaraj 50 years ago. “Tamil cinema has lost two Rajas in the same month,” he said.

Many actors, who had interacted with Bhagyaraj at actor Khushbu Sundar’s daughter’s wedding just days earlier, expressed disbelief over his sudden demise. Actor Suhasini recalled that he had happily attended the wedding a few days ago.

Calling Bhagyaraj a close family friend, actor Sarathkumar said the news of his demise was painful as they had been chatting only two days ago at the wedding. Celebrated as the ‘king of screenplay’, he has carved a permanent place in the hearts of audience through timeless classics. With his distinctive blend of humour and emotion, he beautifully portrayed the lives of ordinary people, family relationships, and social realities in his films.

Actor Chiranjeevi, who had met Bhagyaraj at the wedding in Goa, said they spent time sharing jokes and taking pictures. A brilliant filmmaker, exceptional screenplay writer, and fine actor, his contribution to Indian cinema will always be remembered, he said in his social media post.

Veteran music director Ilayaraja expressed his condolences through a video post as he was on an international music tour.

Many also passed on their condolences on ‘X’. Venkatesh Daggubati said the work of Bhagyaraj transcended languages and touched the hearts of millions. “I feel fortunate to have been a part of films like Sundarakanda and Abbaigaru, which were born from his remarkable storytelling. Indian cinema has lost one of its finest filmmakers,” he said. Actor and producer Mohan Babu said over the years, they have travelled together through many phases of cinematic journey, sharing countless memories, conversations and moments of laughter.

Film producer Boney Kapoor said Indian cinema has lost one of its finest storytellers, and he has lost a dear friend. “A true genius, you redefined storytelling with your exceptional creativity, wit, and deep understanding of human emotions. Your films like Mouna Geethangal, Thooral Ninnu Pochchu, Andha 7 Naatkal, Enga Chinna Rasa and their remakes Ek Hi Bhool, Woh Saat Din, Mohabbat, Beta etc have entertained millions while leaving a lasting impact on Indian cinema,” he said. Actor Simran said he was a visionary filmmaker, brilliant storyteller, and exceptional actor. He brought laughter, warmth, and meaningful social messages through his work.