Suriya is not only a sought-after actor for filmmakers but also an icon who truly uses his stardom for social welfare.
Published Jul 23, 2024 | 12:08 PM ⚊ Updated Jul 23, 2024 | 10:31 PM
Suriya, awaiting the release of 'Kanguva', turns 49. (Supplied)
Some stars captivate us on-screen, leaving us in awe. A few go beyond that, impressing us off-screen with their personalities. The most impressive thing about Suriya is the lasting sense of goodness he imparts. He is one of those rare stars who will make you feel good about yourself after meeting him.
Suriya’s relatability and rooted authenticity make him shine bright among those few icons who remain strongly embedded in our minds even when we don’t see them for a long time on-screen.
Is there another hero who has maintained his stardom despite a lengthy absence from the big screen, except for the relatively low-profile Etharkkum Thunindhavan in 2022? Yet here we are, waiting to see him dazzle on 35mm (and now IMAX too) for director Siva’s silver screen extravaganza, Kanguva.
The gifted actor Suriya has an instant connection, with every single viewer, inside a movie hall when he appears on-screen. Some people consider him their son, others call him their “anna” (elder brother), but we already know he’s a heartthrob for girls, don’t we?
During an interview, Jyotika said that she finds it hard to fight or even argue with Suriya because his eyes speak volumes and he is so handsome. Having good looks alone won’t give you that drop-dead gorgeous look. Being a good person also helps. Moreover, we also know how well this good man played the role of the ultimate bad guy Rolex in Vikram (2022).
The power couple: Jyotika and Suriya. (X)
Suriya, a top hero for many years, exemplifies a great actor. His versatility in various genres within commercial cinema has endeared him to a broad audience. In Tamil cinema, heroes often take on template roles such as dual roles, police officers, college romances, intense social dramas, political dramas, and pan-Indian epics.
Suriya has excelled in every genre—as father and son in Vaaranam Aayiram (2008), in iconic cop roles in Kaakha Kaakha (2003) and the Singam series, in the flashback scenes of Sillunu Oru Kaadhal (2006), as the dreamer in Soorarai Pottru (2020), as the fierce advocate in Jai Bhim (2021), and soon as the messiah in Kanguva (2024).
Additionally, the new collaboration with Karthik Subbaraj in Suriya 44 has fans eagerly anticipating what the film will offer.
At 49, Suriya appears remarkably youthful and vibrant on-screen, easily portraying characters a decade younger than his age. This youthful appearance, coupled with his acting prowess, opens doors for fresh collaborations with filmmakers who haven’t yet worked with him.
For instance, it would be exciting to see Suriya in the lead role in Su Venkatesan’s Velpari, a project director Shankar has said he will pursue after Game Changer (2024).
This saga is set in Tamil Nadu and the long-awaited collaboration with director Shankar could yield a fresh creative synergy, much like the electrifying climax Suriya and Lokesh Kanagaraj delivered in Vikram. When two fresh minds unite to create a film, the possibilities are endless, and the potential for something extraordinary is exciting for the industry.
Suriya is not only a sought-after actor for filmmakers but also an icon who truly uses his stardom for social welfare. If you happen to run into Suriya, I suggest asking him about his NGO, Agaram, which supports student education. He will surprise you with detailed information about Agaram, as he always has the numbers and student details at his fingertips, without needing any notes. That’s how deeply involved and hands-on he is with Agaram.
He is also the goodwill ambassador for the TANKER (Tamilnad Kidney Research) Foundation
and consistently advocates for awareness and understanding of such important causes.
His fans hold annual blood donation camps for his birthday, and this year, Suriya donated blood at Rajiv Gandhi Government Hospital in Chennai. The event achieved a record turnout of 450 fans donating in honour of their favourite star. Suriya’s ability to spread goodness stems from his innate desire to give back to society. Despite his immense stardom, he maintains a grounded approach.
When you speak with Suriya, his humility is evident in his modest demeanour. He is also candid about his knowledge gaps and is always eager to learn more. Even on topics he’s well-versed in, like his acting process, Suriya speaks with a gentle touch, as if his words were petals falling softly on the grass. Though Suriya may have inherited his gentlemanly traits from his actor-father, Sivakumar, it is his sincerity that defines his gentle communication style.
Suriya in ‘Jai Bhim’. (X)
Suriya can also be a strong voice of protest when necessary, as shown during the issues with Jai Bhim and the NEET controversy. Whether at the state or central level, he has consistently stood up for the greater good of his people.
In his 27-year career, starting with Nerrukku Ner in 1997, Suriya has delivered many memorable performances, with several becoming blockbusters and being remade in other languages, such as Ghajini (2005) and the Singam franchise, both of which were remade in Hindi.
While these films were major successes at the box office, Suriya’s original performances continue to stand out for their believable intensity. It’s impressive how someone who is socially reserved can shine so effortlessly and proficiently on camera as if the role were a perfect fit.
Two of my favourite roles by Suriya are Michael Vasanth from Mani Ratnam’s Aaytha Ezhuthu (2004) and Kamal from Gautham Menon’s segment, Guitar Kambi Mele Nindru, in the Navarasa anthology (2021). As Kamal, Suriya infused a deep, vulnerable charm into a youthful romance. Although this modern tale was overshadowed by other stories in the anthology, many upcoming filmmakers will still cite the Suriya-GVM segment as their favourite.
What more can I add about Suriya’s portrayal of the student-leader Michael Vasanth that isn’t already highlighted on Instagram or X? (formerly, Twitter) His role remains a standout for its coolness and strength. Perhaps, Mani Ratnam will collaborate with Suriya again in a new project—it’s a combination I eagerly anticipate. Suriya’s performance is so naturally subtle and mindful that it instantly brings a smile to your face.
Suriya in ‘Kanguva’ poster. (X)
In an age of grand, pan-Indian multi-starrers, Suriya is poised to make a significant impact with his role in Kanguva. Siva, known for Siruthai (2011), chose Suriya for his most ambitious film to date, confident in Suriya’s dedication, preparation, and willingness to go the extra mile for the lead role.
Kanguva is set to release in ten languages, including Nepalese, where there are about two lakh anbaana fans. The makers of the film are confident it will set new multi-crore box office records for Suriya for several reasons. However, the film’s monumental opening is primarily due to Suriya’s enduring star power and his esteemed place in the industry and our hearts.
This birthday marks the start of several new milestones for Suriya. He has an innate drive to excel in everything he undertakes, and an endless stream of goodness flows into all his endeavours. The coming years hold promise of surpassing his best; thanks to the films we’ll see him in.
Here’s wishing Suriya continued success with his films and Agaram. When a good man succeeds, an entire society benefits alongside him.
(Views expressed are personal)
(Edited by S Subhakeerthana)
(South First is now on WhatsApp and Telegram)
