Kamal Haasan and Sripriya, who played lead roles alongside Rajinikanth in director Rudhraiya’s critically acclaimed and widely celebrated debut film Aval Appadithaan, have paid homage to the filmmaker who passed away yesterday at the age of 67. “Just like Bharati will forever be remembered for his poetry, Rudhraiya will forever be remembered for the great film he made. He was a different man in a way. It’s a pity that we mainly remember and herald the commercial successes more than the critical ones. I will remember him for his passion for cinema. He was one of those directors who wouldn’t mind holding a reflector aloft, if it meant that a scene would look better,” says Kamal Haasan.
Actress-turned-director Sripriya says, “It’s unfortunate to lose this unique film-maker who created Aval Appadithan which is highly ahead of its time. It was not only a great film of my career but also one of its kind in the history of Indian cinema. As I am out of country I give my condolence to the family & friends of this all-time great director. Sir may your soul rest in peace.“