Get to know Cheran Pandiyan, a prominent figure in the Tamil film industry, through this comprehensive biography. From his humble beginnings to his impactful career, discover the multifaceted life and achievements of this renowned actor, director, writer, and producer.
Wiki/Biography
Cheran was born on December 12, 1965, (age 57 in 2022), in Pazhayoorpatti near Madurai, Tamil Nadu. His passion for acting blossomed during childhood, leading him to participate in school dramas and plays. He gained widespread recognition for his remarkable role as Senthil Kumar in the 2004 Tamil film “Autograph.”
His early career involved working as a production manager and assistant director. He made his directorial debut with “Bharathi Kannamma” in 1997, showcasing his talent behind the camera. He transitioned into acting with “Porkkaalam,” further diversifying his contributions to the film industry.
Physical Appearance
Cheran’s striking physical attributes include:
- Height (approx.): 5′ 8″
- Weight (approx.): 65 kg
- Hair Colour: Black
- Eye Colour: Dark Brown
Family & Caste
Cheran hails from a Hindu family belonging to the Scheduled Caste community. His father, Pandian, worked as a projector operator, and his mother, Kamala, was a primary school teacher. He has two sisters. Cheran is married to Selvarani, and they have two daughters, Dhamini and Nivedha Priyadarshini (a film producer).
Career
Cheran’s journey in the film industry began as a production manager and assistant director, working on notable films like “Puriyaadha Pudhir” and “Mahanadi.” He served as an assistant/associate director for approximately eleven films before his directorial debut. Beyond directing, he established himself as a successful actor, writer, and producer.
His role as both actor and director in “Porkkaalam” marked a significant turning point. The success of “Autograph,” which he directed, wrote, and produced, solidified his position in the industry, even achieving a four-time screening at the Montreal World Film Festival.
Cheran’s production credits include “Autograph” (2004), “Azhagai Irukkirai Bayamai Irukkirathu” (2006), “Aadum Koothu” (2007), “Muran” (2011), and “JK Enum Nanbanin Vaazhkai” (2015). In 2014, he founded “C2H” (Cinema2Home) to combat copyright infringement within the Tamil film industry. His appearance as a contestant in Bigg Boss (Tamil) season 3 in 2019 broadened his public profile.
Controversy
Cheran’s career has also been marked by controversies. In 2013, his daughter Dhamini filed a complaint against him, alleging threats related to her relationship. In 2016, he sparked debate with comments about Sri Lankan Tamils and unauthorized film copies. A 2017 letter saw him publicly criticize Vishal, the General Secretary of the Nadigar Sangam, citing alleged disrespect and power struggles.
Awards
Cheran’s accomplishments have been widely recognized through numerous prestigious awards, highlighting his significant contributions to Tamil cinema:
| Award | Film | Year |
|---|---|---|
| National Film Award for Best Film on Other Social Issues | Vetri Kodi Kattu | 2000 |
| National Film Award for Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment | Autograph | 2004 |
| National Film Award for Best Film on Family Welfare | Thavamai Thavamirundhu | 2005 |
| Tamil Nadu Progressive Writers Association Award for Best Writer and Director | Thavamai Thavamirundhu | 2005 |
| National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Tamil | Aadum Koothu | 2007 |
| Filmfare Award for Best Director – Tamil | Bharathi Kannamma, Desiya Geetham, Pandavar Bhoomi, Autograph | Various Years |
| Filmfare Award for Best Film – Tamil | Autograph | 2004 |
Facts
Here are some interesting facts about Cheran:
- His hobbies include writing and listening to music.
- He admires singers Sathyan and G. V. Prakash Kumar.
- Participating in the Montreal World Film Festival was a significant personal achievement.
- He prefers Hogenakkal Waterfalls in India to Niagara Falls in Canada.
- He has also given a speech at the Washington Tamil Sangam.
- To hone his acting skills, he practiced by rehearsing dialogues in front of a mirror, drawing inspiration from the legendary Sivaji Ganesan.
