Published on: May 29, 2025 | By Taaza Wire
Veteran Tamil actor Rajesh, a household name in South Indian films for more than half a century, died at the age of 75 in Chennai on May 29, 2025, due to a sudden cardiac arrest. His sudden departure leaves fans, friends, and the entire film fraternity grief-stricken.
A Sudden Goodbye
Rajesh had complained of low blood pressure earlier in the day and was on his way to hospital when he passed away. His body has been preserved at his home in Ramapuram, Chennai, so that fans and well-wishers could pay their last respects.
He is left behind by his daughter Divya and son Deepak. His wife, Joan Sylvia Vanathirayar, died in 2012.
A Career Spanning Five Glorious Decades
Rajesh debuted on the silver screen in 1974 with K. Balachander’s classical Aval Oru Thodarkathai. He soon established himself with his earthy performances and thoughtful screen presence.
With Kannipparuvathile (1979), he played his first lead, and he has appeared in more than 150 films in Tamil, Malayalam, and Telugu cinema.
From being the lead man to moving on to powerful character roles, Rajesh played screen space with the legends Kamal Haasan and Rajinikanth, and starred in cult movies like:
- Sathya
- Mahanadhi
- Virumaandi
- Achamillai Achamillai
- Andha 7 Naatkal
- Payanangal Mudivadhillai
He was last seen in the film Merry Christmas alongside Vijay Sethupathi and Katrina Kaif.
Beyond Acting: A Man of Many Talents
Rajesh was not just an actor. He was a:
- Writer
- Dubbing artist
- Television actor
- Politician
- Real estate businessman
He also served as Chairman of the M.G.R. Film and Television Institute, a Tamil Nadu government-backed institution, for the past two years.
ndustry Reactions: An Outpour of Love
The news of Rajesh’s death triggered a wave of tributes from the film fraternity:
🎙️ Superstar Rajinikanth said on X (Twitter):
“The news of the untimely death of my close friend, actor Rajesh, is shocking to me. It brings immense sadness. He was a wonderful person. May his soul rest in peace.”
🎙️ Actress Radikaa Sarathkumar posted:
“Deeply shocked and sudden to hear of #Rajesh’s unexpected demise. Shared so many movies together and had a deep respect for his wide knowledge of cinema and life. He will be missed.”
🎙️ Producer G. Dhananjeyan added:
“Very sad to read about the passing away of Actor #Rajesh sir, a fine actor and a respected person in the film industry. My heartfelt condolences to the family. Rest in peace sir.”
An Irreplaceable Loss to Indian Cinema
Rajesh’s untimely death leaves a gap that cannot be replaced. His humility, depth of knowledge, and kindly demeanor made him not only a renowned artist but also a revered soul among equals and admirers alike.
From his modest early years to his legendary characters, and then his unobtrusive leadership from the sidelines, Rajesh’s path was that of resilience, adaptability, and elegance.
Final Farewell
As fans queue up to bid farewell to the man who lived so many lives on screen, it is certain that Rajesh’s legacy will live on in his unforgettable performances and the lives he touched.
May his soul rest in eternal peace.
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