Vijay Sethupathi, fondly called “Makkal Selvan” (People’s Treasure), is a renowned Indian actor and producer who has left a remarkable mark on Tamil cinema through his diverse acting skills and unique selection of roles.
Vijay Sethupathi, fondly called “Makkal Selvan” (People’s Treasure), is a renowned Indian actor and producer who has left a remarkable mark on Tamil cinema through his diverse acting skills and unique selection of roles.
Born as Vijaya Gurunatha Sethupathi Kalimuthu on January 16, 1978, in Rajapalayam, Tamil Nadu, he moved to Chennai during his school years. He attended MGR Higher Secondary School in Kodambakkam and later graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce degree from Dhanraj Baid Jain College, Chennai. Before venturing into acting, Sethupathi worked various jobs, including as an accountant in Dubai.Vijay Sethupathi's full name is Vijaya Gurunatha Sethupathi Kalimuthu.
He was given the title “Makkal Selvan” (People’s Treasure) by director Seenu Ramasamy, recognizing his humility, talent, and connection with the common people.
Yes, he has acted in Telugu, Malayalam, and Hindi films, including the Bollywood film "Mumbaikar" and Shah Rukh Khan’s "Jawan" (2023).
Yes, he is also a producer, lyricist, playback singer, and has hosted the Tamil TV show “Namma Ooru Hero.”
Yes, he won the National Film Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in the film "Super Deluxe" (2019), where he played a transgender character.
Before becoming an actor, Vijay Sethupathi worked as an accountant in Dubai.
He appeared in over a dozen uncredited background roles before his breakthrough.
He owns a production company named Vijay Sethupathi Productions.
He is one of the few Tamil actors to portray a transgender character with critical acclaim (in Super Deluxe).
He studied B.Com at Dhanraj Baid Jain College in Chennai.
"I don’t act to impress, I act to express."
Portraying realistic, unconventional characters
Minimalist acting style with natural dialogue delivery
Makkal Selvan (People’s Treasure)
VJS
Vijay Sethu
Charges approximately ₹8–15 crore per film (varies based on the project and language)
For big-budget multilingual films like “Jawan”, his salary reportedly exceeded ₹20 crore
Actors you may like