Discover the fascinating life and career of Vijay Sethupathi, a prominent figure in the Tamil film industry. From his humble beginnings to his rise as a celebrated actor, producer, and more, this comprehensive biography explores his journey.
Wiki/Biography
Born as Vijaya Gurunatha Sethupathi on Monday, January 16, 1978, in Rajapalayam, Tamil Nadu, Vijay Sethupathi’s zodiac sign is Capricorn. He completed his schooling at MGR Higher Secondary School in Kodambakkam and Little Angels Mat HR Sec School. He earned a Bachelor of Commerce degree from Dhanraj Baid Jain College in Chennai.
Physical Appearance
- Height (approx.): 5′ 9″
- Weight (approx.): 80 kg
- Body Measurements (approx.): Chest 39″, Waist 33″, Biceps 12″
- Eye Colour: Black
- Hair Colour: Black
Family, Caste & Wife
Vijay’s father, Kalimuthu, was a civil engineer, and his mother’s name is Saraswathi. He has two brothers, Anna and Thambi, and a sister, Thangachi. He met his wife, Jessie, online and they married in 2003. The couple has two children: a son, Surya, and a daughter, Shreeja.
Career
As An Actor
Vijay Sethupathi’s acting journey began in 2004 with the theatre group Koothu-P-Pattarai, initially as an accountant and later as an actor. He started with supporting roles before landing his first lead role in “Thenmerku Paruvakaatru (2010),” thanks to a recommendation from director Suseenthiran. His television debut was in the Tamil serial “Penn (2006).” He’s known for his diverse roles, including a memorable negative role in “Sundarapandian (2012),” and has starred in numerous successful films like Pizza (2012), Idharkuthane Aasaipattai Balakumara (2013), Rummy (2014), Orange Mittai (2015), Sethupathi (2016), Vikram Vedha (2017), 96 (2018), and Super Deluxe (2019).
As A Writer, Singer, Lyricist, Director & Producer
His multifaceted talents extend beyond acting. He’s contributed as a producer, dialogue writer, playback singer, and lyricist, notably in “Orange Mittai (2016),” where he also sang the songs “Orae Oru Oorla” and “Straight Ah Poyee.” He also produced “Junga (2018).”
Controversies
Vijay Sethupathi has faced controversies for his outspoken views. In 2019, his stance on the Sabarimala issue and the caste system drew significant criticism on social media. Later that year, he had to address fake photos circulating online featuring fabricated controversial statements attributed to him.
Awards
His talent has been recognized with numerous awards:
| Award | Film | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Tamil Nadu State Film Awards for Best Villain | Sundarapandian | 2012 |
| Asiavision Awards for Best Actor | Dharma Durai | 2016 |
| Filmfare Awards South – Best Actor | Pizza | 2012 |
| Filmfare Awards South – Best Actor (Tamil) | Vikram Vedha | 2017 |
| National Film Award – Best Supporting Actor | Super Deluxe | 67th National Film Awards |
Favourite Things
- Actors: Prabhu Deva, Rajinikanth, Dhanush
- Films: Madagascar Series, Mullum Malarum (1978), Johnny (1980), 16 Vayathinile (1977)
- Directors: M. Manikandan, Mani Ratnam
Facts
Vijay Sethupathi’s love for animated films, especially the Madagascar series, is well-known. The nickname “Makkal Selvan” (a person dear to the people) was bestowed upon him by director Seenu Ramasamy after an incident involving shared tamarind rice during a film shoot. His career path was far from planned; he initially pursued accounting and various other jobs before eventually finding success in the film industry.
