"Will Not Even Forgive Balu Mahendra's Spirit," Former Wife Mounika Breaks Silence

Balu Mahendra, a prominent cinematographer and director in Indian cinema, continues to be celebrated for his remarkable talent behind the camera. Born in Tamil Eelam, he honed his skills at the prestigious Pune Film Institute before embarking on his career as a cinematographer. Known for his ability to make even ordinary individuals look extraordinary, Balu Mahendra's work has garnered praise from audiences and critics alike.

In addition to his prowess as a cinematographer, Balu Mahendra ventured into the realm of directing. He made his directorial debut in Kannada cinema with the film Kokila, featuring acclaimed actor Kamal Haasan in the lead role. Following this success, he made his directorial debut in Tamil with Ariyatha Kolamangal. Balumakendra's subsequent films, including Moodpani, Veedu, Sandhya Ragam, Thimthi Prai, Mhamu, Satilelavati, Itu Eka Kanakalam, continue to be regarded as cinematic masterpieces.

While he enjoyed widespread acclaim, Balumakendra was not immune to criticism. He was married to Akila and had a son named Shanki. However, he fell in love with actress Shobha and married her. Tragically, Shobha took her own life, with many asserting that it was suicide rather than murder. Balumakendra later entered into a relationship with actress Mounika, and they lived together for over a decade.

Balumakendra passed away in 2014, leaving unanswered questions surrounding his personal life. When Mounika attempted to see his body, director Bala opposed her presence. However, after the intervention of filmmaker Bharathiraja and others, Mounika was granted the opportunity to bid her final farewell to Balu Mahendra.

In a candid interview, Mounika revealed, "When he broke up with me, Balu Mahendra wrote a letter expressing his reluctance to burden me in his old age. However, old age alone cannot be the reason for our separation. He ended our relationship out of fear that something might happen to him. It was a grave mistake, one that I can never forgive even his spirit for, even in his afterlife. The absence of an explanation still lingers, leaving us and perplexed."