• Monday, 06 October 2025

Thengai Srinivasan

Born: 1937-10-21
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Last Updated on 06 Oct 2025
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Thengai Srinivasan was a legendary Indian actor and comedian in the Tamil film industry, celebrated for his impeccable comic timing, versatile character roles, and memorable screen presence. He made his cinematic debut with Oru Viral (1965) and rose to fame with iconic films like Thillu Mullu, Kasethan Kadavulada, Ethir Neechal, and Kaliyuga Kannan. Born in Srivaikuntam, Tuticorin District, Tamil Nadu, Srinivasan began his career in theatre before transitioning to cinema, eventually becoming one of the most beloved comic and character actors of his era.

Thengai Srinivasan was a legendary Indian actor and comedian in the Tamil film industry, celebrated for his impeccable comic timing, versatile character roles, and memorable screen presence. He made his cinematic debut with Oru Viral (1965) and rose to fame with iconic films like Thillu Mullu, Kasethan Kadavulada, Ethir Neechal, and Kaliyuga Kannan. Born in Srivaikuntam, Tuticorin District, Tamil Nadu, Srinivasan began his career in theatre before transitioning to cinema, eventually becoming one of the most beloved comic and character actors of his era.

Thengai Srinivasan was a celebrated Indian actor and comedian who primarily worked in the Tamil film industry. Born in Srivaikuntam, Tuticorin District, Tamil Nadu, Srinivasan began his artistic journey in theatre, influenced by his father, who staged local plays. His early stage performances and natural flair for comedy earned him the nickname “Thengai” after a memorable role as a coconut seller. Transitioning from theatre to cinema, he made his film debut with Oru Viral (1965) and gradually became a household name for his impeccable comic timing and versatility in character roles. Over the years, Srinivasan appeared in iconic films like Thillu Mullu, Kasethan Kadavulada, Ethir Neechal, Kaliyuga Kannan, and Bama Vijayam, showcasing his range from slapstick comedy to villainous and lead roles. He also ventured into film production, producing Krishnan Vandhaan in 1987. Widely regarded as one of Tamil cinema’s most beloved comedians and character actors, Thengai Srinivasan left an indelible mark on the industry with his expressive performances, unforgettable dialogues, and enduring popularity among audiences. His legacy continues to inspire actors and comedians in Tamil cinema even decades after his passing in 1987.
Thengai Srinivasan was a celebrated Indian actor and comedian who primarily worked in the Tamil film industry. Born in Srivaikuntam, Tuticorin District, Tamil Nadu, Srinivasan began his artistic journey in theatre, influenced by his father, who staged local plays. His early stage performances and natural flair for comedy earned him the nickname “Thengai” after a memorable role as a coconut seller. Transitioning from theatre to cinema, he made his film debut with Oru Viral (1965) and gradually became a household name for his impeccable comic timing and versatility in character roles. Over the years, Srinivasan appeared in iconic films like Thillu Mullu, Kasethan Kadavulada, Ethir Neechal, Kaliyuga Kannan, and Bama Vijayam, showcasing his range from slapstick comedy to villainous and lead roles. He also ventured into film production, producing Krishnan Vandhaan in 1987. Widely regarded as one of Tamil cinema’s most beloved comedians and character actors, Thengai Srinivasan left an indelible mark on the industry with his expressive performances, unforgettable dialogues, and enduring popularity among audiences. His legacy continues to inspire actors and comedians in Tamil cinema even decades after his passing in 1987.

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Personal details

Alternative names “Thengai” Srinivasan
Height 5′ 7″
Born October 21, 1937 · Srivaikuntam, Tuticorin District, Tamil Nadu, India
Spouses
• Lakshmi Srinivasan
Parents • Rajavel Mudaliar
Relatives Shrutika (Granddaughter)
Other works
Actor, Producer

FAQ

Thengai Srinivasan was a legendary Tamil actor and comedian known for his impeccable comic timing, versatile character roles, and memorable performances in films from the 1960s to the 1980s.

He earned the nickname “Thengai” (meaning coconut in Tamil) after portraying a coconut seller in a stage play. The name stuck and became his screen identity.

He is best known for films like Thillu Mullu, Kasethan Kadavulada, Ethir Neechal, Kaliyuga Kannan, and Bama Vijayam.

Yes, he also produced the film Krishnan Vandhaan (1987) and began his career in theatre, which helped him develop his comic and character-acting skills.

He passed away on 9 November 1987 due to a brain hemorrhage, leaving behind a lasting legacy in Tamil cinema.

Did you know

Trivia

Thengai Srinivasan started his career in theatre before transitioning to films.
He earned the nickname “Thengai” (coconut) after a memorable stage performance as a coconut seller.
Known for his impeccable comic timing and versatility, he played roles ranging from comedy to villainous and lead characters.
He produced the film Krishnan Vandhaan (1987), though it was not commercially successful.

Quotes

“Comedy is not just about laughter; it’s about timing and emotion.”
“A character well-portrayed stays in the audience’s memory forever.”

Trademarks

Signature comic expressions and impeccable timing.
Ability to switch seamlessly between comic, villainous, and lead roles.
Memorable dialogues that became part of popular culture.

Nicknames

Thengai Srinivasan

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