Tamil filmmaker Bharathiraja died in Chennai on June 10 at the age of 84 after a prolonged illness. Stars of his debut film, 16 Vayathile (1977), Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan, visited his residence in Neelankarai to pay their last respects.
Speaking to the media afterwards, both actors spoke of their long association, with Rajinikanth candidly remarking about how the director never thought he was a good actor.
Rajinikanth admits Bharathiraja never thought he was a good actor
Rajinikanth might be a superstar today, but Bharathiraja did not think he was good at acting. “He was my friend for nearly 50 years,” said Rajinikanth, getting emotional and recalling how Bharathiraja would always speak his mind.
“He was like a child at heart. Whatever he felt, he would say it directly. He used to criticise me too. He would tell me, I like you as a person, but I don't like your acting. That was the kind of honesty he had. Being around him was always joyful. People who speak so openly are very rare,” added the star.
The actor also said he has a personal regret regarding the filmmaker. He revealed that he wanted to meet him in his final days, but was told his health was improving.
“I never got the chance to see him one last time. That is something I will always regret. His passing was not sudden, but I still wish I had met him before he left us,” said Rajinikanth.
Kamal also spoke to the press and said, “The gentleman has gone, but his art will continue to live on. I'm not counting the losses; I'm counting the gains. He was there, and he made films with me. I am very grateful.”
