Vadivelu

Kumaravadivel Natarajan, born on September 12, 1960, and known professionally as Vadivelu, is a legendary Indian actor, comedian, and occasional playback singer who has become an indelible part of Tamil cinema’s cultural fabric. Before entering films, he worked in his father’s glass-cutting business in Madurai.

Vadivelu’s journey to stardom began in 1988, but his major breakthrough came in 1991 with “En Rasavin Manasile”, after a chance meeting with filmmaker Rajkiran on a train to Chennai. His first standout solo comedy track came in director Shankar’s “Kadhalan” (1994), and from there he became one of the two dominant comedians in Kollywood alongside Vivek through the 2000s. His physical comedy, impeccable timing, and iconic dialogues made him a phenomenon — memes and clips from his films remain some of the most shared content on Tamil social media to this day.

His first leading role in “Imsai Arasan 23rd Pulikesi” (2006) was both a critical and commercial hit. Other landmark performances include “Chandramukhi” (2005), “Winner” (2003), and “Marudhamalai” (2007). Vadivelu has won the Tamil Nadu State Film Award for Best Comedian five times for “Kaalam Maari Pochu” (1996), “Vetri Kodi Kattu” (2000), “Thavasi” (2001), “Imsai Arasan 23m Pulikesi” (2006), and “Kathavarayan” (2008), and the Filmfare Award for Best Comedian twice. With over 290 film credits, he is one of the most prolific and beloved performers in Tamil cinema history.