One of the most successful directors in Tamil cinema in recent history, Atlee has carved a niche for himself as a blockbuster filmmaker in less than a decade of his entry into the industry. The swashbuckling director also went on to marry his sweetheart, Priya, in 2014, and have since given many in Tamil Nadu major couple goals. Having said that, the young filmmaker took to his Instagram page on Saturday night to pen an emotional note after his wife, Priya's grandfather, Kaliyaraj, passed away due to cardiac arrest. He was 82. 

In his note, Atlee shared that Kaliyaraj never really liked being called 'Thatha' and was the reason why he used to address him as 'bro'. He stated that the day started as any normal day after which he and Priya received a phone call informing them about his passing away due to cardiac arrest. He also compared the veteran to acclaimed yesteryear Tamil actor Nagesh's character, Subbuni, as depicted in the film, Minnale. 

Atlee also shared that he had spoken to Kaliyaraj last week and they had a beautiful conversation. Always a well-wisher, a friend and an experienced guide in their lives, the hit director said he is heartbroken, while adding that no one can replace him in their lives. He further said that the day has made him and the entire family realize many things - that there is an end for everything. Informing fans and followers to share their love and happiness till they live with each other, he added that every day is a gift from God and once again shared his words of love for Mr. Kaliyaraj. Below is Atlee's emotional post: 

"@priyaatlee Thatha passed away today
He doesn’t like to be called Thatha so I always call him bro. Today It was like a regular day for me & Priya. we got up and started our day suddenly we received a call from Aunty in morning we were broken to know tat he is no more due to cardiac arrest. He is 82, even last week we both had a beautiful conversation.. he loved me so much he has always been a well wisher, friend and experienced guide (minalae Subini Thatha type) miss u bro can’t believe ur no more. I’m heartbroken.
Our family has lost the pillar &
A young friend love u bro
kaliyaraj , no one can replace u in our lives , will miss u ... this dae has made us realize alot of things in life... it’s tym to realize there is an end for everything... so share ur love and happiness till u live... everyday is a gift from god... love u bro...".

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

@priyaatlee Thatha passed away today He doesn’t like to be called Thatha so I always call him bro. Today It was like a regular day for me & Priya. we got up and started our day suddenly we received a call from Aunty in morning we were broken to know tat he is no more due to cardiac arrest. He is 82, even last week we both had a beautiful conversation.. he loved me so much he has always been a well wisher, friend and experienced guide (minalae Subini Thatha type) miss u bro can’t believe ur no more. I’m heartbroken. Our family has lost the pillar & A young friend love u bro kaliyaraj , no one can replace u in our lives , will miss u ... this dae has made us realize alot of things in life... it’s tym to realize there is an end for everything... so share ur love and happiness till u live... everyday is a gift from god... love u bro...😰❤️

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