Chennai: Veteran Tamil film producer K Rajan died at the age of 85 after allegedly jumping into the Adyar river in Chennai.
News18 Tamil Nadu confirmed his death, as more details are awaited.
The tragic news triggered an outpouring of grief from members of the Kollywood fraternity, many of whom remembered him for his long-standing contribution to Tamil cinema.
Khushbu Sundar wrote on her X account: “Terrible news. Deeply shocked to hear about the demise of our beloved member of film fraternity, producer K.Rajan Sir. He passing away by suicide is extremely saddening. Very respectful person and a man who never hesitated to call a spade a spade. Very very upsetting. May his soul rest in peace.”
Terrible news. Deeply shocked to hear about the demise of our beloved member of film fraternity, producer K.Rajan Sir. He passing away by suicide is extremely saddening. Very respectful person and a man who never hesitated to call a spade a spade. Very very upsetting.
May his… pic.twitter.com/75GXFHu9uM— KhushbuSundar (@khushsundar) May 17, 2026
Actor Vishal wrote, “Just heard the news of k Rajan sir’s demise. Shocking to hear that he committed suicide. A bold speaker. Been the president of the distributor an association. Sad to hear this news. May his soul rest in peace.”
Hailing his legacy as a producer, R Sarath Kumar wrote, “The tragic incident of Mr. K. Rajan, a renowned producer in the Tamil film industry, taking his own life has caused immense shock and sorrow. From 1980 onwards, the unexpected end of this veteran producer, who had firmly established himself in Tamil cinema, will be a great loss to the Tamil film world. I convey my deepest condolences to his family, who are grieving his passing, as well as to his relatives, friends, and the entire Tamil film fraternity. I pray for the peaceful repose of his soul.”
Director Seenu Ramasamy wrote, “Deeply saddened by the passing of veteran producer K. Rajan sir. The Tamil film industry has lost a bold and fearless voice. Heartfelt condolences to his family.”
K Rajan began his journey in the Tamil film industry as a producer with the 1983 film ‘Brammacharigal’, featuring Suresh in the lead role.
He later turned director with ‘Namma Ooru Mariamma’ in 1991, starring Nizhalgal Ravi and Sarathkumar.
Over the course of a career spanning more than four decades, Rajan worked on several films including Doubles, Aval Paavam and Ninaikkatha Naalillai.
He is survived by his son Prabhukanth, who is also an actor.
