Vijay Sethupathi, often hailed as “Makkal Selvan” (People’s Treasure), has carved a unique niche for himself in the Tamil film industry. Known for his versatility, unconventional choices, and effortless acting, he has emerged as one of the most respected and beloved actors in Indian cinema. This article delves into his life, career, and personal achievements in detail.
Personal Details
| Full Name | Vijaya Gurunatha Sethupathi Kalimuthu |
| Stage Name | Vijay Sethupathi |
| Date of Birth | January 16, 1978 |
| Place of Birth | Rajapalayam, Tamil Nadu, India |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Occupation | Actor, Producer, Screenwriter |
| Years Active | 2004–present |
| Spouse | Jessy Sethupathi (m. 2003) |
| Children | Surya Sethupathi, Shreeja Sethupathi |
Biography
Early Life and Age
Vijay Sethupathi was born on January 16, 1978, in Rajapalayam, Tamil Nadu. He grew up in a modest family and attended MGR Higher Secondary School in Kodambakkam, Chennai. After completing his schooling, he pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Commerce from Dhanraj Baid Jain College in Chennai. Despite a typical upbringing, his journey to stardom was anything but ordinary.
Post his graduation, Vijay Sethupathi moved to Dubai to work as an accountant, driven by the need to support his family. However, his heart was not in his job, and he often felt unfulfilled. During this period, he developed an interest in acting and decided to return to India to pursue his passion.
Career
Early Struggles
Vijay Sethupathi’s early years in the film industry were fraught with struggles. He began his career in 2004 with minor roles and appearances as an extra in films. His persistence and dedication eventually paid off when he started getting small but significant roles in television serials and short films. His performance in the short film “Kaaka Muttai” caught the attention of the industry and marked the beginning of his rise to fame.
Breakthrough and Rise to Fame
Vijay Sethupathi’s breakthrough came in 2010 with the film “Thenmerku Paruvakaatru,” directed by Seenu Ramasamy. His portrayal of a shepherd earned him critical acclaim and set the stage for his future successes. The film won three National Film Awards, further boosting his profile.
In 2012, he starred in “Pizza,” a horror thriller directed by Karthik Subbaraj. The film was a massive hit, and Sethupathi’s performance was highly praised. This was followed by another successful film, “Naduvula Konjam Pakkatha Kaanom,” a comedy-drama that showcased his versatility and comedic timing.
Versatility and Critical Acclaim
Vijay Sethupathi quickly became known for his ability to effortlessly switch between different genres and roles. He played a variety of characters, from a rustic villager in “Sundarapandian” (2012) to a struggling middle-aged man in “Soodhu Kavvum” (2013). His performance in “Soodhu Kavvum” was particularly notable for its humor and depth.
In 2015, he delivered another stellar performance in “Naanum Rowdy Dhaan,” directed by Vignesh Shivan. His role as a gangster with a heart of gold won him numerous accolades and further established him as a versatile actor. The same year, he starred in “Orange Mittai,” a film he also produced and co-wrote, showcasing his multifaceted talents.
Continued Success and Experimentation
Vijay Sethupathi continued to experiment with different roles and genres. In 2016, he starred in “Sethupathi,” playing a tough cop, and “Kadhalum Kadanthu Pogum,” a romantic comedy. Both films were commercial successes and highlighted his range as an actor.
His role in “Aandavan Kattalai” (2016), a comedy-drama directed by M. Manikandan, received critical acclaim for its social message and Sethupathi’s nuanced performance. In 2017, he starred in “Vikram Vedha,” a neo-noir thriller alongside R. Madhavan. His portrayal of Vedha, a charismatic gangster, was widely praised and earned him several awards.
Recent Works and Impact
In recent years, Vijay Sethupathi has continued to deliver memorable performances in films like “96” (2018), a romantic drama that became a critical and commercial hit, and “Super Deluxe” (2019), where his role as a transgender woman was lauded for its sensitivity and depth.
His work in “Master” (2021), where he played the antagonist opposite Thalapathy Vijay, showcased his ability to hold his own against other leading stars. His performances have not only entertained audiences but also brought attention to various social issues, making him a socially conscious artist.
Spouse
Vijay Sethupathi married Jessy in 2003, and the couple has two children, Surya and Shreeja. Despite his busy schedule, Sethupathi is known to be a devoted family man. He often credits his wife and family for their unwavering support throughout his career.
Conclusion
Vijay Sethupathi’s journey from a struggling actor to one of the most respected stars in Tamil cinema is a testament to his talent, perseverance, and ability to connect with audiences. His versatility and willingness to take on unconventional roles have set him apart in an industry often driven by stereotypes. As he continues to push the boundaries of his craft, Vijay Sethupathi remains a true inspiration for aspiring actors and a beloved figure in Indian cinema.
FAQ
Q: What is Vijay Sethupathi’s real name?
A: Vijay Sethupathi’s real name is Vijaya Gurunatha Sethupathi Kalimuthu.
Q: When did Vijay Sethupathi make his acting debut?
A: Vijay Sethupathi began his acting career with minor roles in 2004, but his significant breakthrough came with the film “Thenmerku Paruvakaatru” in 2010.
Q: Has Vijay Sethupathi won any awards?
A: Yes, Vijay Sethupathi has won several awards, including the Tamil Nadu State Film Award and Filmfare Awards South.
Q: Who is Vijay Sethupathi’s spouse?
A: Vijay Sethupathi is married to Jessy Sethupathi. They got married in 2003.
Q: Does Vijay Sethupathi have any children?
A: Yes, Vijay Sethupathi has two children, Surya Sethupathi and Shreeja Sethupathi.
Q: What are some notable films of Vijay Sethupathi?
A: Some notable films of Vijay Sethupathi include “Pizza,” “Naduvula Konjam Pakkatha Kaanom,” “Soodhu Kavvum,” “Naanum Rowdy Dhaan,” “Vikram Vedha,” “96,” and “Super Deluxe.”
Q: What was Vijay Sethupathi’s role in “Vikram Vedha”?
A: In “Vikram Vedha,” Vijay Sethupathi played the role of Vedha, a charismatic gangster, opposite R. Madhavan.
Q: Has Vijay Sethupathi worked in other capacities in the film industry?
A: Yes, Vijay Sethupathi has also worked as a producer and screenwriter, showcasing his multifaceted talent in the industry.
