In a statement that his son Manoj Bharathi shared on social media, Bharathiraja, who is known for several cult classics in Tamil, including the Sivaji Ganesan-starrer 'Mudhal Mariyadhai', said, "My dear Tamil people, I am your beloved Bharathiraja. I was admitted to hospital recently due to an health issue, and I am recovering due to the excellent treatment and kind care of doctors and medical staff. I humbly request all my loved ones not to come to see me in person as visitors are not allowed in the hospital. I hope to get well soon and meet you all in person. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to all those who have kindly inquired and prayed for my recovery in person, over the phone and online after hearing the news of my admission to the hospital. See you all soon. With love, Bharathiraja (sic)."