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K. Balachander was born on 9 July 1930 in Nannilam, Madras Presidency, British India. He was a writer and director, known for Ek Duuje Ke Liye (1981), Thaneer Thaneer (1981) and Apoorva Raagangal (1975). He was married to Rajam. He died on 23 December 2014 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.

Vijayakanth, who's affectionately called 'Puratchi Kalaignar' and 'Captain' by his fans and well-wishers, had to face so many challenges and unfriendly situations before he could achieve the fame and popularity he's enjoying to-day in Tamil filmfield. He, whose original name was Vijayaraj, was born on 25th August, at Madurai, Tamilnadu, his parents being Azhagarsamy-Andal. When he was one year old his mother Andal passed away. His parents had three more children. To bring up the one year old baby Vijayakanth and because of the pressure exerted upon Vijayakanth's father by all the family members, the latter (Father of Vijayakanth) married one Rukmani as his second wife. This couple gave birth to 7 children. All these members now live together happily in a joint family. From 1st std. to 5th std. Vijayakanth studied at a particular school. He finished his 6th std. at M.C.High School. He pursued his 7th and 8th std. at Devakottai school. He did his 9th std. at a different school. 10th and 11th std. were studied by him at St. Mary's school. During that period, Vijayakanth was looking after his father's rice-mill business. So he couldn't pursue his studies beyond 11th std. Vijayakanth had some close friends then. One notable friend among them was A.Se. Ibrahim Rawther (who's even now with Vijayakanth as if his own-brother and has also earned the distinction of being one of the leading film producers in cinefield). All these friends in those days used to gather together near Sena's Films, a films distribution company, at Madurai. Marsook, the proprietor-distributor of Sena's Films, used to keenly observe the activities of Vijayakanth. One day he asked Vijayakanth whether the latter was interested in acting in films. Out of pressure from his friends, Vijayakanth agreed to act in films. Subsequently he (Vijayakanth) was booked for acting in the film "Yen Kelvikku Yenna Pathil?". Yet, after some time, he was dropped from the project on the ground that he was not good at Tamil dialogue delivery. This elicited a great passion within his heart that he took a vow to get into cine acting with renewed efforts and to make his career a rewarding success! With this one objective in mind, he knocked at the doors of each and every film company asking for acting chance. But there was not any positive response. Marsook had then distributed so many films directed by M.A.Kaja! Vijayakanth was introduced to Kaja by Marsook. As a result Vijayakanth was booked in "Inikkum Ilamai". This was the first film acted by Vijayakanth. After this, he acted in "Thooraththu Idi Muzhakkam", "Neerottam" and "Agal Vilakku". These films didn't bring great success. Yet Vijayakanth too didn't lose heart. He waited for good opportunity. 'Vadaloor Combines' proprietor Chidambaram saw "Neerottam" at Krishnaveni theatre, T.Nagar, Chennai. Seeing Vijayakanth in action, he started developing some interest in him as he identified some hopeful, positive traits in his (Viyayakanth's) style of acting and personality. He wanted to produce a film by booking Vijayakanth. His wish got materialized through "Sattam Oru Iruttarai". In this project too there arose stiff opposition from some quarters protesting against giving the hero chance to Vijayakanth in the film! Yet, overlooking all these objections, the producer stood firm in his decision and made Vijayakanth the hero! S.A.Chandrasekaran directed this film. When, finally, the film got released, it proved to be a grand success! Subsequently Vijayakanth was booked in 18 new films. While he was doing these films, at a specific period, his cinema market started becoming dull again! At this juncture, the film "Saatchi" was released. Vijayakanth had done the lead role in it. S.A.Chandrasekaran had directed it. P.S.Veerappa had produced it. This film, in it's turn, created a new success record. The following is a popular dialogue written by Kalaignar Karunanidhi: "Veezhvathu Naamaaga Irunthaalum Vazhvathu Thamizhaaga Irukkattum".Vijayakanth picked up these words as his heart-loving golden rule. Whenever he addresses any function or releases some press statement or birth day message, he uses to add the words 'Tamil', 'Tamil', 'Tamil' as one of his most ideal slogans. The recent release "Ulavuththurai" is his 125th film. Upto this film he hasn't so far acted even in a single, other language film. He's the only Tamil actor who has achieved this distinction! Though actor Sarathkumar had already acted in films before, his role in "Pulan Visaranai" in which he teamed with Vijayakanth proved to be one of the great limelights in his acting career. Vijayakanth introduced Mansoor Alikhan to filmfield through his "Captain Prabaharan". He (Vijayakanth) has introduced through his different films, film institute students like R.K.Selvamani, R.Aravintharaj, Ilavarasan and a few others as newface film directors. Many different newface heroines also have got introduced through his films. Though Vijayakanth hasn't acted in other language films, each and every film of him has been dubbed into Telugu language and thus has led to huge revenue collection too!

Balu Mahendra was born on 20 May 1939 in Sri Lanka. He was a cinematographer and director, known for Moondram Pirai (1982), Kokila (1977) and Sandhya Raagam (1989). He was married to Ahileshwari. He died on 13 February 2014 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.

Padmini was born on 12 June 1932 in Thiruvananthapuram, Travancore, British India. She was an actress and director, known for Thillana Mohanambal (1968), Kaajal (1965) and Poove Poochudava (1985). She was married to Dr. K. T. Ramachandran. She died on 24 September 2006 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.

Tamil superstar from a poor family in Tamil Nadu, India. His father worked on the railways.

On the day of his birth his father, Chiniah Pillai, follower of Mahatma Gandhi, was jailed for participating in the Independence movement in Nellikuppam (Tamil Nadu, India). He was frequently in and out of jail, and was raised by his mother, Rajamani Ammal.

He joined theatre groups when he was young. He earned his screen name 'Sivaji' after acting in C.N. Annadurai's play 'Sivaji Kanda Indhu Rajyam', a historical play on the Maratha Emperor Shivaji.

He made his film debut in Parasakthi (1952) as Gunasekharan. He became an icon of the DMK party who made DMK films (founded by C.M. Annadurai).

He entered politics in the mid-50s where he joined the Congress party and then defected to support the opposition Janata Dal.

He is most well know for his mythological and patriotic portrayals, like in his most famous films like Karnan(mythological) and Veerapandiya Kattabomman (patriotic).

His main rival was MGR (M.G. Ramachandran) and together they dominated the Tamil film industry in the 1960s and 70s.

Manivannan was born on 31 July 1954 in Sulur, Madras State, India. He was an actor and director, known for Jallikkattu (1987), Nooravathu Naal (1984) and Pudhu Manithan (1991). He was married to Sengamalam. He died on 15 June 2013 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.

Manorama is a veteran Tamil actress who has acted in more than 1500 films, 1000 stage performances, and a few television serials.She started her acting career as a drama artist, which was more popular those days. She slowly migrated from dramas to cinemas just as most actors did those days. During her initial days in the cine field, she concentrated more on comedy. She was given equally challenging roles alongside the well known comedian Nagesh. They made an excellent pair and received many praiseworthy comedies. Her role in Thillana Mohanambal was much appreciated and noticed even with the presence of great stalwarts like Sivaji Ganesan and Natiya Peroli (Danseuse) Padmini in the movie. Ever since, she was provided with more scope in varied roles in addition to comedy. She took each responsibility with such an ease which made the Tamil industry recognize her immense talent. She has the distinction of having acted with five chief ministers of South India. She was the female lead in the stage plays written, directed and acted by Mr C. N. Annadurai, former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu. She has also acted in stage plays with another Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Dr M Karunanidhi. She has acted in films with Dr M G Ramachandran and Dr Jayalalitha Jayaram who both became Chief Ministers of Tamil Nadu later. She has also acted in Telugu films with Dr N T Rama Rao, who became the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh.

Raghuvaran was born on 10 December 1958 in Kollankod, Palakkad, Kerala, India. He was an actor, known for Mudhalvan (1999), Amarkalam (1999) and Sivaji (2007). He was married to Rohini. He died on 19 March 2008 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.

Nagesh was born on 27 September 1933 in Dharapuram, Tamil Nadu, India. He was an actor and director, known for Nammavar (1994), Dasavatharam (2008) and Paartha Gnabagam Illayo (1985). He was married to Regina. He died on 31 January 2009 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.

Cochin Hanifa was born on 22 April 1951 in Kochi, Travancore-Cochin, India. He was an actor and writer, known for Enthiran (2010), Paasa Paravaigal (1988) and Moonnu Masangalkku Munpu (1986). He was married to Fasila. He died on 2 February 2010 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.

Sobhan Babu was born on 14 January 1937 in Krishna District, Andhra Pradesh, India. He was an actor, known for Jeevana Jyoti (1975), Kurukshetra (1977) and Soggadu (1975). He was married to Santha kumari. He died on 20 March 2008 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.

Manobala was born on 8 December 1953 in Balachander, Tamil Nadu, India. He was an actor and director, known for Sathuranga Vettai (2014), Thuppakki (2012) and Vetri Padigal (1991). He was married to Usha Mahadevan. He died on 3 May 2023 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.

J. Mahendran was born on 25 July 1939 in Ilaiyangudi, Madras Presidency, British India. He was a writer and actor, known for Mullum Malarum (1978), Nenjathai Killathe (1980) and Uthiri Pookkal (1979). He died on 2 April 2019 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.

He was primarily known for his work in Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, Malayalam, and Hindi films, singing in an impressive total of 16 languages. According to some sources, he held a Guinness World Record for the most songs recorded by a single singer, with a staggering count of over 50,000 songs across these languages. On February 8, 1981, he achieved a remarkable feat by recording 28 songs in Kannada in a single day, along with an additional 19 songs in Tamil and 16 in Hindi, a milestone recognized as a record as well.

Sujatha, a celebrated South Indian actress, graced the silver screen with her versatile performances in Tamil, Malayalam, Telugu, and Hindi language films. Collaborating frequently with Kamal Haasan, she etched a niche for herself with her restrained and subtle portrayals of varied emotions. Her journey in the film industry began in 1967 with the Malayalam movie "Thabaswini," marking the commencement of a prolific career.

Director K. Balachander introduced Sujatha to the Tamil film industry, casting her as the protagonist in "Aval Oru Thodarkathai." Her foray into Telugu cinema started with the film "Gorintaku," and she went on to act alongside prominent actors of her time, including Kamal Haasan, Rajnikanth, Shobhan Babu, Akkineni Nageswara Rao, and Krishna.

Sujatha's filmography boasts noteworthy performances in films such as Suthradarulu, Pandanti Jeevitham, Prema Tharangalu, Vamshagouravam, Bebbuli, Sandhya, Aasha Jyothi, Guru Sishyulu, Sarkas Ramudu, Guppedu, and Mayadari Krishnudu. Regarded as one of the finest actors in the South Indian cinema industry, she shared a parallel with Hindi actress Smita Patil for her commitment to roles portraying women empowerment.

In 1997, Sujatha received the Nandi Award for Best Supporting Role in the movie "Pelli." Her prowess transcended linguistic boundaries, earning her accolades and recognition in all the languages she graced. The Tamilnadu government honored her with the prestigious "Kalaimamani" award.

Born in Sri Lanka, Sujatha spent her childhood actively participating in school plays before relocating to Kerala at the age of 14. Her acting journey took flight with the Malayalam film "Ernakulam Junction," catching the attention of the legendary Balachander.

Sujatha's personal life included her husband Jayakar, son Sajid, and daughter Divya. Tragically, she succumbed to a cardiac arrest on April 6, 2011, after undergoing treatment for a heart ailment in Chennai. Her legacy endures through her timeless contributions to Indian cinema, and she remains a revered figure in the hearts of film enthusiasts.

Founder of the popular drama troupe 'Crazy Creations' (1973). Which has performed over 5000 plays across Tamil Nadu, most of the themes involving satire and witty dialogue.

In addition to stage plays and TV-series, he has also written number of comedy films, like Michael Madana Kama Rajan, Apoorva Sagodharargal, Avvai Shanmughi and Panchathanthiram. (Starring Kamal Hassan) He has played a small role in each of these films, and he has acted or written dialogue for over 70 films including Arunachalam (starring Rajnikanth).

Sukumari was a legendary Indian actress, widely regarded as one of the most versatile and accomplished artists in the South Indian film industry. She was born in Nagercoil, Travancore, British India (present-day Tamil Nadu, India), as Sukumari Bhimsingh.

With a career spanning over six decades, Sukumari showcased her remarkable talent in more than 2,500 films in various languages, including Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Hindi. She made her acting debut at the age of 10 in the Tamil film "Or Iravu" in 1951, directed by D. Yoganand. Sukumari's dedication and proficiency in multiple languages allowed her to become an indispensable part of the Indian film fraternity.

Known for her exceptional versatility, Sukumari effortlessly portrayed a wide range of characters, from poignant and emotional roles to comedic and character-driven performances. She collaborated with some of the most eminent directors and actors in the industry, earning accolades for her contributions to cinema.

Apart from her work in films, Sukumari also made a mark in the television industry with memorable roles in popular series. Her impeccable acting skills and captivating screen presence earned her numerous awards, including the Kerala State Film Award for Second Best Actress for her performance in the film "Samantha" (1973).

Sukumari's enduring legacy goes beyond her acting prowess; she was also a trained classical dancer and a respected academician. She authored several books on various subjects, showcasing her intellectual depth.

The iconic actress left an indelible impact on the South Indian film industry, and her body of work continues to be celebrated by audiences and critics alike. Sukumari's remarkable career came to a close on March 26, 2013, when she passed away at the age of 72. Despite her physical absence, her contributions to Indian cinema and her legacy as a multifaceted artist remain alive through the timeless performances she delivered throughout her illustrious career.

I.V. Sasi was born on 28 March 1948 in Kerala, British India [now India]. He was a director and writer, known for Eeta (1978), Itha Ivide Vare (1977) and Karimpin Poovinakkare (1985). He was married to Seema. He died on 24 October 2017 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.

Mohan Gokhale was an acclaimed Indian actor known for his versatile performances in Hindi and Marathi cinema. With a career spanning over two decades, he left an indelible mark with roles in films like "Saaransh" and "Salim Langde Pe Mat Ro." Gokhale's nuanced portrayals earned him several awards, showcasing his prowess in both mainstream and parallel cinema. His untimely demise at the age of 45 was a loss to the Indian film industry, but his legacy lives on through his memorable contributions to the world of acting.

Visu was born on 1 July 1945 in British India. He was an actor and writer, known for Samsaram Athu Minsaram (1986), Neenga Nalla Irukkanum (1992) and Aadhade Adharam (1976). He was married to Sundhari. He died on 22 March 2020 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.

Delhi Ganesh was born on 1 August 1944 in Thirunelveli, Tamil Nadu, India. He was an actor and producer, known for Pasi (1979), Chennai Express (2013) and Ayan (2009). He died on 9 November 2024 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.

Murali was born on 19 May 1964 in Bangalore, Mysore State, India. He was an actor and producer, known for Vetri kodi kattu (2000), Ajeya (1985) and Namma Veetu Kalyanam (2002). He died on 8 September 2010 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.

C.V. Sridhar was born on 22 July 1933 in Chengalpattu, Tamil Nadu, India. He was a director and writer, known for Nenjil or Aalayam (1962), Kalyana Parisu (1959) and Nazrana (1961). He was married to Devasena. He died on 20 October 2008 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.

Uma Maheshwari was born on 18 August 1981 in Tamil Nadu, India. She was an actress, known for Metti Oli (2002). She was married to Murugan. She died on 17 October 2021 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.

Popularly known as Bapu was born on 15th December,1933 in Narsapur, Andhrapradesh. Before this Bapu met Ramana in Taylor high school in Narasapur where they studied as classmates for three years until second world war ended. Later when their families moved to Madras where they continued their studies, in 1945 All India Radio (Madras) published a children's story Amma maata vinakapothe which was written by Mollapudi Venkataramana for which Bapu worked as a cartoonist making this their first collaboration. Later Bapu was got graduated from University of Madras in B.com B.L in 1953 and 1955 respectively. Bapu became an expert cartoonist and painter own his own with his own style which caught everyone's eyes. Soon when Bapu wanted to make films Ramana also joined him. By the time Bapu became a director Ramana has got some chances as a writer in the industry. Later Bapu debuted with his directorial and written by Ramana Saakshi in 1967 starring Krishna and Vijaya nirmala which became an instant hit. Entire movie was known to be shot in just 17days completely in outdoors which was first of its kind at that time. This director-writer duo went on to make many well known and noted movies like Balaraju katha, Sampoorna ramayanam, Andala ramudu, Muthyala muggu, Seetha kalyanam, Bhaktha kannappa, Gorantha deepam, Manavoori pandavulu, Tyagayya, Manthrigaari viyyankudu, Pelli pustakam, Mister pellaam. Bapu and Ramana are known for their friendship in Telugu film industry even today. While they collaborated for Srirama Rajyam in 2011 Ramana passed away in the film making and soon after the film's release Bapu also passed away making this film their last one. Bapu has received 2 National film awards, 3 Filmfare awards, 7 state Nandi awards and prestigious Raghupathi Venkaiah award from the Government of Andhra Pradesh. Bapu's direction with simplistic and cultural aspects in his films is widely appreciated. Especially his way of showing lead actresses with 'Telugu thanam' is considered undeniably the best. Bapu also widely known for his paintings of characters of epics like ramayana and Mahabharata. Both Bapu and Ramana collaborated for some popular books namely Budugu, Kothi kommachi, Bommalu geeyandi. Bapu who is especially fond Lord Rama has drawn a numerous portraits of him which are unique in field of line drawing. He also received a Life time achievement award from Indian institute of cartoonists. He has designed and illustrated a number of books of puranas and folklore for which he received government awards. Bapu is also known for introducing a whole new font in Telugu which is known to be used even today.