Mani Ratnam an Iconic Film Director's Biography & Movies

Quick Info

Born June 2, 1995

Birth Place Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India

Height 5'7'

Fan Score 80

Popularity 80

Roles Producer, Writer, Director

Photos

+2

Known For

Ponniyin Selvan: Part I (...

Director

★ 7.5

Ponniyin Selvan: Part Two...

Director

★ 7.3

Filmography

Ponniyin Selvan: Part Two (2023)

7.3 2023

Director

Ponniyin Selvan: Part I (2022)

7.5 2022

Director

Videos

Mani Ratnam Interview With Baradwaj Rangan

Personal Details

Alternative Names Mani Sir, Maverick Director, Master Craftsman

Relatives None

Did You Know

Trivia

Mani Ratnam started his career as a management consultant before moving into filmmaking.
He introduced A. R. Rahman as a film composer in Roja (1992).
Many of his films feature strong female characters and explore themes of love amid political conflict.

Quotes

Cinema is not just storytelling. It’s also about how you tell the story.

Trademarks

Complex characters with emotional depth.
Realistic and minimalist filmmaking style

Nicknames

Mani Sir
Maverick Director
Master Craftsman

Salaries

Exact salary details are not publicly disclosed, but Mani Ratnam is considered one of the highest-paid directors in Tamil cinema. His per film is between ₹10–20 crore range, depending on the project.

Frequently Asked Questions

01

Who is Mani Ratnam?

Mani Ratnam is an acclaimed Indian filmmaker, screenwriter, and producer, known for revolutionizing Tamil cinema with his unique storytelling style. He has also worked in Hindi and other Indian language films.

02

When was Mani Ratnam born?

He was born on June 2, 1956, in Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India.

03

What are some of Mani Ratnam’s most famous films?

Roja (1992) – Political thriller highlighting Kashmir conflict. Bombay (1995) – Love story set against the backdrop of communal riots. Dil Se (1998) – Romance and terrorism in Northeast India. Alaipayuthey (2000) – Modern romance story about young love and marriage. Guru (2007) – Biographical film inspired by Dhirubhai Ambani’s life.

04

What awards has Mani Ratnam won?

National Film Awards – multiple times for Best Director, Best Feature Film, and Best Screenplay. Filmfare Awards (South & Hindi) – numerous awards including Best Director and Best Screenplay. Honored internationally at film festivals for contributions to Indian cinema.

05

What is Mani Ratnam’s signature style?

Strong visual storytelling combined with powerful music (often collaborating with A.R. Rahman). Integration of social, political, and emotional themes. Pioneered modern Tamil cinema with a blend of realism and commercial appeal.

06

Who are Mani Ratnam’s frequent collaborators?

A.R. Rahman – Music composer (Roja, Bombay, Dil Se, etc.) P.C. Sreeram – Cinematographer S. Ramachandran – Producer Actors like Mohanlal, Arvind Swamy, Nagarjuna, and Madhavan