Aval Appadithan director Rudhraiya dies

Popular filmmaker C Rudhraiya who won accolades for his film Aval Appadithan, died late on Tuesday night in Chennai. He was 67. According to a family source, Rudhraiya breathed his last in a private hospital.

Popular filmmaker C Rudhraiya who was acclaimed for his film Aval Appadithan died late on Tuesday night in Chennai. 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)," said the source.

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 on Wednesday, is survived by his wife Ganga, son Dileeban and daughter Ganga.