Legendary filmmaker Bharathiraja passed away on June 10 at the age of 84. Credited with transforming Tamil cinema by moving storytelling away from studio sets to realistic rural areas, he was a pioneering force in Indian cinema. Known for his iconic opening line, “Yen Iniya Tamil Makkale,” delivered in his distinctive voice, he left behind a lasting legacy. Bharathiraja made his directorial debut with 16 Vayathinile, starring Sridevi, Kamal Haasan, and Rajinikanth, a film that went on to become a cult classic and continues to be talked about even today. Here’s a look at his relationship with Rajinikanth who worked in the film.