R. Parthiban is a veteran Indian actor, director, writer, and producer in Tamil cinema. Known for his experimental storytelling and bold roles, he has won national and state awards for his performances and directorial work. His films often challenge traditional formats, making him one of Kollywood’s most unique creators.
R. Parthiban is a veteran Indian actor, director, writer, and producer in Tamil cinema. Known for his experimental storytelling and bold roles, he has won national and state awards for his performances and directorial work. His films often challenge traditional formats, making him one of Kollywood’s most unique creators.
Parthiban began his career under director K. Bhagyaraj and made his breakthrough with Pudhiya Paadhai (1989), a film he wrote, directed, and starred in. It earned him a National Award for Best Feature Film in Tamil. Over the years, he acted in and directed several impactful films like Housefull, Azhagi, Oththa Seruppu Size 7, and Iravin Nizhal. He is known for daring experiments in cinema, such as making a film with only one on-screen actor (Oththa Seruppu Size 7) and directing India’s first single-shot non-linear film (Iravin Nizhal).Photos
Parthiban Radhakrishnan - Filmography
Total Movies: 2
videos
Personal details
- Alternative names Parthiepan, R. Parthiepan, Parthiban Radhakrishnan, Pudhiya Paadhai Parthiban
- Height 5.74 (175 cm)
- Born October 14, 1958 · Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
- Relatives Keerthana Parthiban (daughter, actress), Abhinaya Parthiban (daughter), Raakhi Parthiban (adopted son)
- Other works
- Producer, Director, Screenwriter, Lyricist, Narrator, Editor (short films), Theatre Artist, Stage Speaker
FAQ
He is best known for acting in and directing bold, experimental Tamil films like Pudhiya Paadhai, Housefull, Oththa Seruppu Size 7, and Iravin Nizhal.
Yes, he has won multiple National Film Awards, Tamil Nadu State Film Awards, and Filmfare Awards for both acting and directing.
Yes, to actress Seetha. They later separated.
Did you know
Trivia
He started his film career as an assistant director to K. Bhagyaraj and worked under him for over 7 years.
Pudhiya Paadhai (1989), which he directed and starred in, was made on a very small budget but went on to win the National Award.
He is famous for his speeches, often filled with clever wordplay and sarcasm, especially during award functions and audio launches.
Oththa Seruppu Size 7 (2019) featured only one on-screen character played by him — a rare feat in Indian cinema.
Iravin Nizhal (2022) entered the Asia Book of Records and India Book of Records for being the world’s first non-linear single-shot film.
Quotes
“Cinema should not just entertain, it should challenge the way we think.”
“Failures are nothing but the sharp edges that sculpt the statue of success.”
“I don't act in films to please others. I make them because they burn inside me.”
Trademarks
Bold, unconventional filmmaking.
Unique use of monologues and voice narration.
Frequent use of first-person storytelling.
Nicknames
Parthiepan
Director Parthiban
Pudhiya Paadhai Parthiban
Kollywood’s Maverick
Salaries
For acting roles: ₹1–2 crore per film (depending on role and production scale).
For writing/directing independent projects: He often self-produces or reinvests profits into filmmaking, prioritizing creativity over commercial payoff.
More Actors to explore
Actors you may like
