Chennai– The South Indian film industry is mourning the loss of veteran Tamil actor Rajesh, who passed away on Thursday at the age of 75. Known for his versatility and commanding screen presence, Rajesh acted in more than 150 films across Tamil, Malayalam, Telugu, and other South Indian languages over a career spanning five decades.
The veteran actor breathed his last at his residence in Ramapuram, Chennai. His body has been placed there for public viewing, allowing fans and members of the film fraternity to pay their final respects.
Rajesh is survived by his daughter Divya and son Deepak. His wife, Joan Sylvia, passed away earlier.
Born on December 20, 1949, in Mannargudi in Tamil Nadu’s Tiruvarur district, Rajesh began his professional life as a schoolteacher. However, his deep passion for acting eventually led him to leave the classroom behind and pursue a career in cinema—a decision that would shape the legacy of one of South India’s most respected actors.
He made his screen debut in 1974 with Aval Oru Thodarkathai, a critically acclaimed film directed by the legendary K. Balachander. His breakout as a leading man came with Kanni Paruvathile (1979), produced by Rajkannu, which cemented his place in the industry.
Rajesh’s career was marked by his ability to portray a wide range of characters—from romantic leads to morally complex antagonists and deeply emotional supporting roles. He was admired for his expressive acting, nuanced performances, and smooth transition between hero, character actor, and even antagonist.
In addition to his acting career, Rajesh was a talented dubbing artist, known for his rich, emotive voice that added gravitas to many roles. His contributions extended beyond the screen, as he worked with some of the most revered directors and actors in South Indian cinema.
His collaborations with director K. Balachander were particularly noteworthy. In Achamillai Achamillai, Rajesh delivered a standout performance that showcased his ability to portray political and psychological complexity. He also shared the screen with Kamal Haasan in several acclaimed films including Sathya, Mahanadhi, and Virumaandi, leaving a lasting impact with his compelling character portrayals.
Colleagues, fans, and members of the industry remember Rajesh not only for his cinematic achievements but also for his humility, professionalism, and unwavering dedication to his craft. His passing signifies the end of an era in Tamil cinema, but his legacy will continue to inspire generations of actors and filmmakers. (Source: IANS)
