National Award-winning singer Bhavatharini, the daughter of renowned musician Ilaiyaraaja, passed away on Thursday, January 25, succumbing to cancer at the age of 47 while receiving treatment in Sri Lanka around 5:20 pm.
Bhavatharini, known for her soulful renditions, contributed to memorable songs like ‘Mayil Pola Ponnu Onnu’ in Bharathi and ‘Oliyile Therivathu Thevathaya’ in Azhagi. She is survived by her husband, and her brothers, Karthik Raja and Yuvan Shankar Raja.
Actor-filmmaker Revathy, who collaborated with Bhavatharini on the film ‘Mitr, My Friend,’ expressed her deep sorrow on Instagram. Revathy shared a heartfelt note, recalling their association and the moments spent working on the 2002 film, which featured Shobana and had Bhavatharini as the music composer.
In her Instagram post, Revathy expressed her sadness, “Deeply saddened that Bhavatharini Ilaiyaraaja has left us… my heart goes out to her father #ilayaraja sir.” Revathy remembered Bhavatharini’s musical contribution to ‘Mitr, My Friend,’ saying, “She will always remain a part of me and my films. RIP my dear Bhavata.”
Revathy also shared some memories, stating, “So many memories are flooding in about Bhavatharini… Just felt like sharing that Bhavata got Hariharanji, Bombay Jayshree, Vasundara, and Sunita Sarathy to sing in Mitr my friend. The way she would communicate to each of them was with such confidence.” She also recalled a poignant moment when Ilaiyaraaja attended the film’s screening to support his daughter’s work.
Musicians and film stars from across the country are paying tribute to Bhavatharini, expressing their disbelief and condolences at her untimely passing. The industry mourns the loss of a talented artist, and heartfelt messages continue to pour in for the grieving Ilaiyaraaja family.
