Celebrated filmmaker Bharathan was remembered with music, memories and heartfelt tributes at his native place in Wadakkancherry on Thursday as film lovers gathered to celebrate the enduring legacy of one of Malayalam cinema’s finest filmmakers.

The programme, Bharatham Lalitham, organised at the Sree Kerala Varma Public Library, Wadakkanchery, was inaugurated by noted screenwriter and lyricist Shibu Chakravarthy, who fondly recalled his long association with Bharathan.

“Friendship with Bharathan was like a journey through the Himalayas. It was aesthetically enriching, but sustaining that friendship demanded extraordinary commitment,” said Mr. Chakravarthy, who collaborated with the filmmaker on several acclaimed films.

Xavier Chittilappilly, MLA, was the chief guest. He announced that an open-air auditorium, named Haritha Sauhrida Open Air Auditorium, would be built at the library using funds from the current financial year’s development allocation.

Actor Jayaraj Warrier presented Bharathan Smrithi, a musical tribute featuring some of the most memorable songs from Bharathan’s films. The audience joined in the singing, turning the programme into a collective remembrance of the filmmaker’s cinematic and musical legacy.

“Even after 28 years, not only Bharathan’s films but also the unforgettable songs they gave us continue to resonate with audiences,” Mr. Warrier said.

The event also paid tribute to late actor KPAC Lalitha, Bharathan’s wife. Bharathan Foundation convener Marath Vijayan delivered the memorial address, recalling her remarkable contribution to Malayalam cinema. Library president V. Murali presided over the function.

Published - July 30, 2026 08:44 pm IST