Tamil filmmaker Rudhraiya passes away

Tamil filmmaker C. Rudhraiya, who was popular for his critically acclaimed film "Aval Appadithan", passed away here late Tuesday night. He was 67. According to a family source, Rudhraiya breathed his last in a private hospital. "He was suffering from health-related issues. After being briefly hospitalised, he passed away yesterday (Tuesday)," the source told IANS. Rudhraiya also directed the 1980 rural drama "Gramathu Athiyayam". He has only two films to his credit. Released in 1978, "Aval Appadithan", which revolves around three characters, played by superstar Rajinikanth, Kamal Haasan and Sripriya, was much ahead of its time. It touched on themes such as women's liberation, sex and chauvinistic male attitude. Rudhraiya, whose last rites are expected to be performed Wednesday, is survived by his wife Ganga, son Dileeban and daughter Ganga. (Source: IANS)