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Manivannan was a celebrated Indian actor, director, and writer in the Tamil film industry. Known for his versatility and sharp dialogue delivery, he appeared in over 400 films, often playing villains, comedic roles, or socially conscious characters. As a director, he helmed more than 50 films, including classics like Amaidhi Padai, Pudhu Manithan, and Chinna Thambi Periya Thambi. Born in Sulur, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, Manivannan began his career as a story and dialogue writer before becoming one of the most influential character actors and filmmakers in modern Tamil cinema.
Manivannan was a celebrated Indian actor, director, and writer in the Tamil film industry. Known for his versatility and sharp dialogue delivery, he appeared in over 400 films, often playing villains, comedic roles, or socially conscious characters. As a director, he helmed more than 50 films, including classics like Amaidhi Padai, Pudhu Manithan, and Chinna Thambi Periya Thambi. Born in Sulur, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, Manivannan began his career as a story and dialogue writer before becoming one of the most influential character actors and filmmakers in modern Tamil cinema.
Manivannan was a legendary Indian actor, director, and writer who primarily worked in the Tamil film industry. Born in Sulur, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, he began his career as a story and dialogue writer, collaborating with renowned director Bharathiraja. His talent for storytelling and keen understanding of social issues quickly led him to transition into directing, where he helmed over 50 films, including notable works like Amaidhi Padai, Pudhu Manithan, and Chinna Thambi Periya Thambi. Alongside his directorial ventures, Manivannan became one of Tamil cinema’s most versatile actors, appearing in over 400 films in roles ranging from villains and comedic characters to father and uncle figures, often delivering sharp political and social commentary through his performances. Known for his unique dialogue delivery, impeccable comic timing, and ability to bring depth to supporting roles, he left an indelible mark on the industry. Beyond cinema, Manivannan was also a politically and socially active personality, supporting Tamil cultural causes and engaging with movements such as DMK, MDMK, and Naam Tamilar Katchi. Today, he is remembered as one of Tamil cinema’s most prolific character actors and influential filmmakers, celebrated for blending entertainment with meaningful social and political narratives.
Manivannan was a legendary Indian actor, director, and writer who primarily
worked in the Tamil film industry. Born in Sulur, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, he began his career as a story and dialogue writer, collaborating with renowned director Bharathiraja. His talent for storytelling and keen understanding of social issues quickly led him to transition into directing, where he helmed over 50 films, including notable works like Amaidhi Padai, Pudhu Manithan, and Chinna Thambi Periya Thambi. Alongside his directorial ventures, Manivannan became one of Tamil cinema’s most versatile actors, appearing in over 400 films in roles ranging from villains and comedic characters to father and uncle figures, often delivering sharp political and social commentary through his performances. Known for his unique dialogue delivery, impeccable comic timing, and ability to bring depth to supporting roles, he left an indelible mark on the industry. Beyond cinema, Manivannan was also a politically and socially active personality, supporting Tamil cultural causes and engaging with movements such as DMK, MDMK, and Naam Tamilar Katchi. Today, he is remembered as one of Tamil cinema’s most prolific character actors and influential filmmakers, celebrated for blending entertainment with meaningful social and political narratives.
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Personal details
- Alternative names Mani
- Height 5′ 7″
- Born July 31, 1953 · Sulur, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India
- Spouses
- Sengamalam
- Other works
- Writer, Director, Actor
FAQ
Manivannan was a legendary Tamil actor, director, and writer, known for his versatile roles in over 400 films and directing 50+ Tamil movies.
He directed popular films like Amaidhi Padai, Pudhu Manithan, Chinna Thambi Periya Thambi, and Nagaraja Cholan MA, MLA.
Manivannan is remembered for his character roles, including villains, comedic roles, father or uncle figures, and socially conscious characters.
Yes, he started as a story and dialogue writer, collaborating with director Bharathiraja and contributing to many early Tamil films.
Besides acting, he was a director, writer, and political activist, known for incorporating political satire, social messages, and cultural commentary in his films.
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Trivia
Manivannan started his film career as a story and dialogue writer, particularly for director Bharathiraja.
Directed over 50 films, often exploring political satire and socially relevant themes.
Acted in over 400 Tamil films, known for versatility in villain, comedic, and supporting roles.
He was politically active, supporting DMK, MDMK, and later Naam Tamilar Katchi.
Quotes
“Cinema should reflect society, not just entertain.”
“A good character role is sometimes more impactful than the hero’s role.”
Trademarks
Sharp political and social commentary in films.
Memorable comic timing and dialogue delivery.
Versatility: villain, comedic, and father/uncle roles.
Nicknames
Mani
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