Tamil Iconic Actors and Actresses The World Will Never See Again
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- Actor
- Sound Department
Nagesh was born on 27 September 1933 in Dharapuram, Tamil Nadu, India. He was an actor, known for Nammavar (1994), Dasavatharam (2008) and Sahasa Veerudu Sagara Kanya (1996). He was married to Regina. He died on 31 January 2009 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.- Actor
- Producer
- Additional Crew
Tamil superstar from a poor family in Tamil Nadu, India. His father worked on the railways.
On the day of his birth his father, Chiniah Pillai, follower of Mahatma Gandhi, was jailed for participating in the Independence movement in Nellikuppam (Tamil Nadu, India). He was frequently in and out of jail, and was raised by his mother, Rajamani Ammal.
He joined theatre groups when he was young. He earned his screen name 'Sivaji' after acting in C.N. Annadurai's play 'Sivaji Kanda Indhu Rajyam', a historical play on the Maratha Emperor Shivaji.
He made his film debut in Parasakthi (1952) as Gunasekharan. He became an icon of the DMK party who made DMK films (founded by C.M. Annadurai).
He entered politics in the mid-50s where he joined the Congress party and then defected to support the opposition Janata Dal.
He is most well know for his mythological and patriotic portrayals, like in his most famous films like Karnan(mythological) and Veerapandiya Kattabomman (patriotic).
His main rival was MGR (M.G. Ramachandran) and together they dominated the Tamil film industry in the 1960s and 70s.- Actor
- Producer
- Director
S.V. Ranga Rao was born on 3 July 1918 in Nuziweedu, Andhra Pradesh, India. He was an actor and producer, known for Chadarangam (1967), Mayabazar (1957) and Bala Bharatam (1972). He was married to Leelavathi. He died on 18 July 1974 in Madras, India.- Saroja Devi B. was born on 7 January 1938 in Bengaluru, Mysore, India. She is an actress, known for Sri Krishnarjuna Yudham (1963), Beti Bete (1964) and Veer Parshuram (1978).
- Actor
- Writer
- Director
J.P. Chandrababu was born on 5 August 1927 in Tuticorin, Tamil Nadu, India. He was an actor and writer, known for Thattungal Thirakkapadum (1966), Nadodi Mannan (1958) and Paava Mannippu (1961). He died on 8 March 1974 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.- Actress
- Director
- Producer
Padmini was born on 12 June 1932 in Thiruvananthapuram, Travancore, British India. She was an actress and director, known for Kaajal (1965), Thillana Mohanambal (1968) and Poove Poochudava (1985). She was married to Dr. K. T. Ramachandran. She died on 24 September 2006 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.- Actress
- Music Department
- Soundtrack
Manorama is a veteran Tamil actress who has acted in more than 1500 films, 1000 stage performances, and a few television serials.She started her acting career as a drama artist, which was more popular those days. She slowly migrated from dramas to cinemas just as most actors did those days. During her initial days in the cine field, she concentrated more on comedy. She was given equally challenging roles alongside the well known comedian Nagesh. They made an excellent pair and received many praiseworthy comedies. Her role in Thillana Mohanambal was much appreciated and noticed even with the presence of great stalwarts like Sivaji Ganesan and Natiya Peroli (Danseuse) Padmini in the movie. Ever since, she was provided with more scope in varied roles in addition to comedy. She took each responsibility with such an ease which made the Tamil industry recognize her immense talent. She has the distinction of having acted with five chief ministers of South India. She was the female lead in the stage plays written, directed and acted by Mr C. N. Annadurai, former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu. She has also acted in stage plays with another Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Dr M Karunanidhi. She has acted in films with Dr M G Ramachandran and Dr Jayalalitha Jayaram who both became Chief Ministers of Tamil Nadu later. She has also acted in Telugu films with Dr N T Rama Rao, who became the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh.- Actor
- Director
- Producer
M.G. Ramachandran (1917-1987), popularly known as MGR, dominated like no other, the films and politics of India's Tamil Nadu state. A charismatic actor and philanthropist, he commanded the idolatrous adulation of millions of Tamilians and became Tamil Nadu's chief minister. His achievements in 3 fields, namely films, philanthropy and politics were remarkable considering his humble origins in Sri Lanka. Raised in poverty by a widowed single mother, he had nothing more than his good looks when he got his first break in "Sati Lilavati", a Tamil film of the late 1930s. In the 1940s and 50s, the Tamil film industry was being transformed by screenwriters like Annadurai, Karunanidhi and others belonging to the Dravidian movement. MGR starred in many of the movies they helped make. Annadurai became his mentor and MGR joined the DMK, Annadurai's new Dravidian party. His films made MGR a matinee idol among Tamilians. He also started monetarily helping people in need, sowing the seeds for his reputation as a philanthropist. When Annadurai died as Tamil Nadu's chief minister, MGR's rival Karunanidhi assumed office. MGR accused him of defalcation and was kicked out of the DMK. In 1977, MGR's ADMK (later renamed AIADMK) party was swept into power. In his first term, MGR cleaned up corruption and carried out reforms like having an income limit for backward class people to be eligible for the reserved seats in government colleges and jobs. His reforms proved unpopular, so MGR became another corrupt Indian politician having learned not to rock the boat. Tamil Nadu stagnated during the rest of his reign. Yet his mesmerized legions of fans continued to vote him into power. His death in 1987 created a power vacuum that soon brought his old nemesis, the corrupt Karunanidhi, back into power. MGR was a complex man who triumphed over poverty and tried to improve the lot of the people who revered him. However, in the end, he was a god that failed.- Actress
- Producer
Sowcar Janaki, born as Sankaramanchi Janaki, is a revered and iconic Indian actress with a career that spans over seven decades. she made her debut in the Telugu film industry at the age of 18 with "Shavukaru" in 1949, marking the beginning of an illustrious journey in the world of cinema.
Interestingly, Sowcar Janaki ventured into acting post-marriage, defying conventions and proving that it is never too late to pursue one's passion. Her versatile performances across various languages, including Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Hindi, and Malayalam, have left an indelible mark on the Indian film industry.
Sowcar Janaki rose to stardom between 1949 and 1975, portraying lead roles in numerous successful films. Collaborating with acclaimed directors like Dada Mirasee and K. Balachandar, she showcased her acting prowess and established herself as a powerhouse performer. Some of her notable works during this period include "Valayapathy," "Rojulu Marayi," "Naan Kanda Sorgam," "Pallum Pazhamum," "Puthiya Paravai," and "Iru Kodugal."
Beyond the silver screen, Sowcar Janaki actively engaged in stage performances, participating in over 300 shows. Her versatility extended to the radio, where she demonstrated her talents as a radio artist in her early years. Noteworthy milestones in her career include her Malayalam debut in "Schoolmaster" (1964) and her Hindi film, "Teen Bahuraniyan."
After 1975, Sowcar Janaki gracefully transitioned into supporting roles, earning widespread acclaim for her performances in films like "Cinema Paithiyam," "Thee," "Thillu Mullu," "Vetri Vizha," and "Kaanche." Her contributions were not limited to acting; she served as a jury member for the National Indian Films Awards committee and chaired the state Telugu Films Awards committee.
Janaki's dedication to the arts extended beyond the screen, as she actively participated in drama troupes, performing in live shows from 1960 to 1995. Her collaborations with co-star Sreekanth in both films and dramas added another dimension to her illustrious career.
Renowned for her enduring on-screen partnerships, Sowcar Janaki shared a special rapport with actors like Sreekanth, Gemini Ganeshan, and Shivaji Ganeshan, particularly cherishing her experiences with the legendary Sivaji Ganesan. Her association with him was characterized by mutual admiration and collaborative efforts to enhance their performances.
In 2016, Sowcar Janaki emerged as the actress with the longest career span, surpassing many of her contemporaries. Her legacy continues to inspire generations, solidifying her place as a true icon in Indian cinema. Sowcar Janaki's unparalleled dedication and longevity in the industry stand as a testament to her remarkable contributions and influence in shaping the Indian film landscape.- Actor
- Director
- Producer
Known as one of the "big three" of South Indian Cinema of yesteryear (the other two being M.G. Ramchandran, and Sivaji Ganesan), Ramaswamy Ganesan had acted in several box-office hits between 1950 and 1978 as the lead hero. Born on November 16, 1919, he was a graduate from an orthodox Brahmin family, and had begun his career as a Lecturer in the Madras Christian College, but subsequently began to work with Gemini Studios as an Executive from 1947, hence he was referred to as "Gemini" Ganesan. He became a movie film hero by the age of 30 in a movie made by AVM Productions, and would soon attain star status.
Fondly referred to as the "King of Romance", he was paired with a number of top-rated heroines of his times, including Vyjantimala, Saroja Devi, Sowkar Janaki, and Devika. He ended up getting married to Savithri, another top heroine.
He was the proud father of one son and seven daughters. One of his daughters is Bollywood mega-star Rekha, and a second daughter named Ji Ji also a movie actress in two Tamil films. One of his other daughter is a well-known Chennai-based gynecologist, Kamala Selvaraj.
Unlike the other big two, Ganesan never tried his hand in politics, and continued doing films in Hindi, Tamil, Telegu, Malyalam, and Kannada languages, even after his prime, after which he did father roles up until the late 1990s. The total number of movies he acted in come to around 200 in all different languages.
A Padmasree recipient in 1971, Ganesan also won the Kalaimamani, MGR Gold Medal, and Screen Life Time Achievement awards.
After several months of bad health, he passed away on Tuesday 22 March 2005 at his home. He was 84 years of age.- M.N. Nambiar was born on 7 March 1919 in Kannur, Malabar, British India. He was an actor, known for Nadodi Mannan (1958), Ulagam Sutrum Valiban (1973) and Marmayogi (1951). He was married to Rukmani Devi . He died on 19 November 2008 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.
- Actress
- Director
- Producer
Savitri, also known as Savitri Ganesan, was an Indian film actress, director, producer, singer and race car enthusiast who predominantly worked in Telugu and Tamil cinema. She also worked in Malayalam, Hindi, and Kannada movies. Starring in more than 250 films. "Mahanati" (i.e.,) Greatest of all actresses by the Telugu Cinema and famously referred to as the "Nadigaiyar Thilagam" (i.e.,) Doyenne of all actresses by the Tamil Cinema. Her performance in the 1957 Telugu Epic film "Mayabazar" skyrocketed her to stardom.
Savitri was born on 6 December 1934 in a Telugu family in Chirravuru, Guntur district of present-day Andhra Pradesh.Her father died when she was six months old, after which her mother took Savitri and an older sibling, Maruti to live with an aunt and uncle. Her uncle, Kommareddy Venkataramaiah enrolled her in classes when she began to show a talent for dance.
Savitri acted in dance dramas as a child, including some work with a theatre company run by Jaggayya. She made an unsuccessful speculative trip to find film work in Madras at the age of 14 when she was deemed to be too young to play heroine roles, but in 1950 was cast as the female lead in Samsaram. That role did not become actuality because she became too excited, necessitating numerous retakes and eventually her replacement in the part. She was given a minor speaking role in the film and in the next year had two more minor roles, in Roopavati and Patala Bhairavi, before getting her big break as the second heroine in Pelli Chesi Choodu. She, later on, was propelled to stardom with critically acclaimed roles in blockbusters such as Devadasu and Missamma.
Savitri won several awards for her performance. She also received the prestigious Rashtrapathi Award. In 2011, the Government of India issued a postage stamp in commemoration of Savitri.
While Savitri was married to Gemini Ganesan, the couple separated in the meantime. They had two children together. Savitri passed away in 1981 after slipping into a coma for 19 months; she was suffering from diabetes and hypertension.- Actress
- Music Department
- Director
Bhanumathi Ramakrishna was born on 7 September 1925 in Doddavaram, Madras Presidency, British India. She was an actress and director, known for Laila Majnu (1949), Chandirani (1953) and Chandirani (1953). She was married to P.S. Ramakrishna Rao. She died on 24 December 2005 in Chennai, Tamilnadu, India.- Actor
- Producer
- Actor
- Writer
M.R. Radha was born on 14 April 1907 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India. He was an actor and writer, known for Raktha Kanneeru (2003), Pudhiya Paravai (1964) and Aananda Jothi (1963). He died on 17 September 1979 in Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, India.- Raghuvaran was born on 10 December 1958 in Kollankod, Palakkad, Kerala, India. He was an actor, known for Mudhalvan (1999), Amarkalam (1999) and Anaganaga Oka Roju (1997). He was married to Rohini. He died on 19 March 2008 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.
- Actor
- Music Department
- Composer
Chittor V. Nagaiah was born on 28 March 1904 in Repalle Taluk, Andhra Pradesh, India. He was an actor and composer, known for Thyagayya (1946), Ramadasu (1964) and Naa Illu (1953). He died on 30 December 1973 in Madras, India.- Actor
- Director
N.S. Krishnan was born in 1905 in Nagerkoyil, Travancore, India. He was an actor and director, known for Pelli Koothuru (1951), Rangoon Radha (1956) and Panam (1952). He was married to T.A. Mathuram. He died in 1967 in India.- Kanchana was born on 16 August 1939 in Madras, Madras Presidency, British India. She is an actress, known for Arjun Reddy (2017), Daana Veera Soora Karna (1977) and Alakh Niranjan (1975).
- Actor
- Producer
- Production Manager
K. Balaji was born on 5 August 1934 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India. He was an actor and producer, known for En Rathathin Rathame (1989), Savaal (1981) and Sargam (1979). He died on 2 May 2009 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.- Jaishankar was born on 12 July 1938 in India. He was an actor, known for Vallavan Oruvan (1966), Yaar Nee? (1966) and Nilagiri Express (1968). He died on 3 June 2000 in India.
- Actress
- Music Department
- Additional Crew
Vyjayanthimala was born to actress and dancer Vasundhara Devi in a Tamil-speaking family in Chennai, India, on August 13, 1933.
At the age of 4, she got the rare chance of performing a dance before the Pope. Then at the age of 15, while in her final year at school, she was signed-up by family friend, M.V. Raman, for a role in a Tamil film 'Vazhkai'. This movie was successful at the box office and was re-made in Hindi during 1951 and released as 'Bahaar'.
Since her entry into films from 1949, this actress, who is also proficient in Bharat Natyam, has appeared in approximately 62 movies, the majority of them in the Hindi language. Her career spanned from 1949 through to 1989. She has received a total of five awards for her performances in 'Devdas', 'Sadhna', 'Ganga Jamuna', and 'Sangam', as well as a lifetime achievement award during 1995.
Her dance numbers, such as 'Hothon Pe Aisi Baat Main Dabake Chali Aai...', 'Man Doley Mera Tan Doley...'; 'Chad Gaiyo Paapi Bichua...'; 'Main Ka Karu Ram Mujhey Buddha Mil Gaya' continue to be popular even today. She made waves when she appeared in a fire red swimsuit in 'Sangam'. She also paved the way for other South Indian actresses, like Hema Malini, Rekha, Sridevi, etc. to make a transition to Bollywood. Her career was managed by her grandmother, Yadugiri Devi.
She married Raj Kapoor's personal physician, Dr. Chamanlal Bali after he divorced his first wife and re-located to Chennai, where she gave birth to a son, actor Suchindra Bali.
After quitting films, Vyjantimala took up shrimp farming, opened up a dance academy, even took an active interest in politics, and with the backing of Indira Gandhi's Congress Party was elected Member of Parliament during the 1980s. She chose to quit politics due to principled differences during 1999.
After the passing of her husband, she now resides in Chennai, with her son, who is an aspiring actor in his own right, and has removed herself completely from Bollywood, in particular, and movies in general, though she could have easily continued on for another decade.
One of her hits 'Naya Daur', originally in Black & White, has now been colorized, and re-released.
In 2007, she published her autobiography titled "Bonding," where she revealed that she didn't have an affair with Raj Kapoor, her leading man and director from "Sangam" (1964).
In 2011, her son Suchindra and daughter-in-law Nandini presented her with a grandchild named Swara.- T.A. Madhuram is known for Arasilankumari (1961), Alibabavum 40 Thirudargalum (1941) and Raja Desingu (1960).
- T.S. Balaiah was born on 23 August 1914 in Sundankottai, Udangudi, Thoothukudi District, India. He was an actor, known for Ambikapathy (1937), Velaikkari (1949) and Thillana Mohanambal (1968). He died on 22 August 1972 in T. Nagar, India.
- Actress
- Producer
M.V. Rajamma was born on 10 March 1921 in Agandanahalli, Tamil Nadu, India. She was an actress and producer, known for Thedi Vanda Mappillai (1970), Mayalokam (1945) and Radha Ramana (1943). She died on 24 April 1999 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.- Actress
- Music Department
Kannamba was born on 20 September 1913 in Cuddapah, Andhra Pradesh, India. She was an actress, known for Draupadi Vastrapaharanam (1936), Talliprema (1941) and Todi Kodallu (1957). She was married to Kadaru Nagabhushanam. She died on 7 May 1964 in Chennai, Tamilnadu, India.- Actress
- Producer
Anjali Devi, a veteran actress and producer in Telugu and Tamil cinema, is widely recognized for her iconic portrayal of Sita in "Lava Kusha" and her remarkable roles in films like "Suvarna Sundari" and "Anarkali." In Hindi cinema, she left an indelible mark with performances in movies such as 'Devta,' where she starred opposite Gemini Ganeshan, 'Sati Savitri' alongside Mahipal, and 'Bhakta Prahlad.' The timeless songs picturized on her, including 'Tum gagan ke chandrama ho,' 'jeevan dor tumhi sang bandhi,' and 'kabhi to miloge, jeevan sathi' from 'Sati Savitri,' continue to enjoy popularity.
Born as Anjani Kumar in Peddapuram, East Godavari district, Andhra Pradesh, India, she later settled in Chennai. Initially named Anjani Kumari during her theater days, director C. Pullaiah bestowed upon her the name Anjali Devi. Her journey in the film industry began with a minor role in "Raja Harishchandra" in 1936, followed by her debut as Mohini in "Gollabhama" in 1947, a film that propelled her to stardom. Her first venture as a heroine was in L. V. Prasad's 'Kashtajeevi,' though the film was abandoned after three reels.
Anjali Devi's cinematic career spanned over 350 Telugu films and a handful of Tamil and Kannada films. She married music director P. Adinarayana Rao in 1940, and together, they produced numerous Telugu films under the banner of Anjali Pictures. The iconic milestone in her career was the role of Sita in "Lava Kusha," the first color film in the Telugu industry in 1963.
Aside from her diverse roles as a damsel, angel, dancer, demon, goddess, and traditional woman, she gracefully transitioned into portraying motherly roles in later years. Anjali Devi's granddaughter, Saila Rao, also followed in her footsteps as an actress.
In 1955, she took on the role of a producer with the film "Anarkali," where she played the lead character opposite Akkineni Nageswara Rao as Salim. Over her career, she produced 27 films, including noteworthy ones like "Bhakta Tukaram" and "Chandipriya," featuring Bollywood and Tollywood actress Jayapradha.
Anjali Devi's illustrious career came to a close with films like "Brundavanam" (1992), "Anna Vadina" (1993), and "Police Alludu" (1994), where she shared the screen with Brahmanandam. Her impact on Indian cinema, spanning mythological roles to modern characters, remains a cherished legacy.- Actress
- Producer
K. R. Vijaya, the acclaimed Indian actress, boasts a remarkable career that spans over four decades in the vibrant landscape of South Indian cinema. Born in Kerala, she spent her early years in the sacred town of Palani. Her father, associated with M.K. Radha's drama troupe, envisioned a future for her in acting, a dream that eventually came to fruition.
K. R. Vijaya's journey into the world of entertainment commenced in the 1960s, marked by her debut in the 1963 film "Karpagam," directed by K. S. Gopalakrishnan. The film proved to be a significant break, catapulting her into the limelight. Known for her versatility, she essayed a variety of roles and went on to work with nearly all the stalwarts of South Indian cinema.
Over the years, K. R. Vijaya has showcased her talents in Telugu, Tamil, and Malayalam language films, amassing an impressive filmography of nearly 400 films. Her notable works include "Karpagam," "Selvam," "Saraswathi Sabadham," "Nenchirukkum Varai," and "Namma Veetu Theivam." She has not only portrayed diverse characters but has also displayed her prowess as a versatile actress.
In 1973, she earned the title of "Punnagai Arasi" in Tiruchirapalli, a testament to her endearing smile, which she credited to her long-time dentist, Dr. Janakiraman. K. R. Vijaya has worked across various Indian languages, starring in 100 films each in Malayalam and Telugu, a few in Kannada, and even one in Hindi titled "Oonche Log," alongside Rajkumar and Feroz Khan.
Throughout her illustrious career, K. R. Vijaya has expressed admiration for actors such as Sivaji Ganesan, MGR, Jai Shankar, and Muthuraman, among others. She holds a special place for actresses like Padmini, Vyjayanthimala, Saroja Devi, and Savithri, whom she considers her favorites.
Beyond the silver screen, K. R. Vijaya has graced the television screens, featuring in the Sun TV teleserial "Raja Rajeswari." Reflecting on her journey, she remains grateful for the opportunities, experiences, and the privilege of working with exceptional directors, co-stars, and technicians.
Nostalgia colors her memories, especially when recalling her debut director, K. S. Gopalakrishnan, who directed her in both her first and 100th films, "Nathaiyil Muthu." The celebratory moments with legends like MGR, Sivaji Ganesan, and Rajkumar etched indelible marks in her career.
As she continues to act, K. R. Vijaya cherishes the blessings life has bestowed upon her and expresses contentment for a fulfilling career in the world of cinema. Her enduring passion for acting remains undiminished, a testament to her dedication and love for the craft.- Actor
- Producer
- Director
V.K. Ramasamy was born in 1926 in India. He was an actor and producer, known for Paayum Puli (1983), Rudhra Thaandavam (1978) and Vikram (1986). He died on 24 December 2002 in India.- Vanisri was born as Ratna Kumari in Nellore, Andhra Pradesh, India in 1948. Her early life was marred with tragic losses: three members of her family, including her father, died of tuberculosis in a span of one month. When her father was dying, he told her mother to give young Ratna and her older sister a good education before marriage. Her mother kept a farm and sold goats milk to support the family. She sent young Ratna and her older sister to Andhra Mahila Sabha in Madras to be educated. While her older sister did well enough to go onto college, Ratna's interest wasn't in her studies, but only in her bharat natyam dancing class. When she was 12 years old, she participated in a dance function at her school. In the audience was a Kannada film director, who thought she resembled actress Savithri Ganesh, then the top female star in South India. He offered Ratna the lead role in his Kannada film, and she took it despite her mother's initial objections. The film became a hit, and she was offered more Kannada and Tamil films. As her visibility grew, Telugu film offers came to but only for small roles. Nevertheless, she took them and acted in her first Telugu film "Bheeshma" (1962). Soon, S.V. Ranga Rao changed her name from Ratna Kumari to Vanisri, an inverse name of his company "Sri Vani Films." She continued with supporting roles and comedy roles in Telugu films, and she finally made an impact in a sister role in "Sukha Dukhalu" (1967), a film written by the important filmmaker K. Balachander. It was a tragedienne role, and she looked beautiful, especially in the song "Idi Mallela velayani." The song became a hit, the film became a hit, and she landed her first heroine role in "Marapurani Katha" (1967). She continued with Tamil and Kannada films and had a hit with the Tamil film "Paal Polave Vaan Meedhile " (1969) and the song "naalai intha velai paarthu" that was picturized on her won a National Award. She was now consistently landing heroine roles in all South Indian films with top leading men. She was confident when she turned down the sister role in "Aatmiyulu" (1969) and opted for the heroine role opposite ANR. The producer and director relented after a couple of months and gave into her, and "Aatmiyulu" became a hit. She became the topmost heroine in the 1970's with more hits like "Dasara bolludu," and Prem Nagar." Around this time, the South Indian film industry was gradually converting from black-and-white to color films, and Vanisri took full advantage of her appearance in color films. She wore bright costumes and applied heavy pancake makeup to cover up her dark complexion. She applied variety of lipsticks and bhindis. She experimented with different hairstyles, and her striking appearance soon caught on and she became the trendy, glamorous star. Even though, she was taken into films because of her facial resemblance to Savitri, she decided she wanted to be a completely different star than her. To do so, she slimmed down, even if the producers had favored a heavier, curvier look. However, her greatest asset was her highly photogenic face, and she was friendly with all her cameramen who made sure she looked her very best onscreen. But, she never sacrificed the substance of her roles for her decorative appearance. She played dramatic roles and title roles, including double roles in "Vani Rani," "Ganga Manga," Iddaru ammayulu" and Secretary. She won acting awards for her superlative performances in "Krishnaveni" and Jeevana Jyothi. Her fame had reached its peak in 1976, when Filmfare magazine decided to do a special feature on the Telugu film industry and put Vanisri on the cover. However, another shift was occurring within the film industry as well as within Vanisri herself. She was working 16 hours a day and working in 14 films a year without any time off. The filmmaker on "Edurelini Manishi" (1975) wanted her to dance and dress more provocatively, and she objected, and although he relented, Vanisri saw the writing on the wall. Newer filmmakers like K. Raghavendra Rao were opting for newer, younger heroines, and he made permanent stars out of three younger heroines: Jaya Prada and Jayasudha in the blockbuster 'Adavi Ramudu' (1977), and 'Sridevi' in "Padaharale Vayausu' (1978). All three were vying for the top spot, the spot that Vanisri had held for nearly a decade. She knew her time was up, and she married her family doctor in 1979 and left films. Even then, she bend society's norms. She was 30, at a time when the average marrying age for a girl was in her early 20's. And she married someone who was slightly younger than her. Nevertheless, it was a lasting marriage, and she gave birth to a daughter Anupama, and son Abinaya Venkatesha Kartik. When she was pregnant with her son, she developed a thyroid problem and gained a lot of weight. Apart from her health problem, she also suffered from a longstanding court battle with her older sister and brother-in-law over property. They had handled her financial affairs when she was in films, and she had no knowledge of how much she earned and how much was spent. After a 12-year battle, the parties all reached a compromise and she and her sister's family reconciled. In 1989, Vanisri returned to films with "Athaku Yamudu Ammayiki Mogodu," where she had a supporting role as an arrogant mother-in-law. The film became a hit, and the audience welcomed her in more senior roles. Although, she continued with such roles, she kept her children away from films, and they both became doctors. Her son Abinaya died in his sleep of cardiac arrest, when he was only 36 years old in 2020. He left behind his wife, also a doctor, and a four-year-old son. Thus, Vanisri's later life was marred with losses, just as early life was. She used her name and money for humanitarian causes, such as contributing to schools and setting up senior center. She is also involved in politics.
- Actress
- Producer
Pandari Bai was born in 1930 in Bhatkal, Karnataka, India. She was an actress and producer, known for Namma Makkalu (1969), Andha Naal (1954) and Parasakthi (1952). She died on 29 January 2003 in Chennai, Tamilnadu, India.- Actor
- Producer
S.V. Subbaiah is known for Kaval Daivam (1969), Maharathi Karna (1944) and Vanjikottai Valiban (1958).- Rajasulochana was born on 15 August 1935 in Bezawada, Madras Presidency, British India. She was an actress, known for Piya Milan (1958), Sri Kalahastiswara Mahatyam (1954) and Rangoon Radha (1956). She was married to Rao C.S.R.. She died on 5 March 2013 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.
- Actor
- Director
S.S. Rajendran was born in 1928 in India. He was an actor and director, known for Mani Makudam (1966), Alli (1964) and Sivagangai Seemai (1959). He died on 24 October 2014 in Chennai, India.- Actress
- Producer
Pandari Bai was born in 1930 in Bhatkal, Karnataka, India. She was an actress and producer, known for Namma Makkalu (1969), Andha Naal (1954) and Parasakthi (1952). She died on 29 January 2003 in Chennai, Tamilnadu, India.- Actor
- Producer
- Actress
- Music Department
- Soundtrack
Varalakshmi S. was born on 13 August 1925 in Jaggampeta, Andhra Pradesh, India. She was an actress, known for Chakravarthi Thirumagal (1957), Sri Krishna Pandaveeyam (1966) and Daana Veera Soora Karna (1977). She was married to A L Srinivasan. She died on 22 September 2009 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.- Actor
- Director
- Writer
Major Sundarrajan was born in 1936 in Periyakulam, Tamil Nadu, India. He was an actor and director, known for Nenjalgal (1982), Andha Oru Nimidam (1985) and Oorum Uravum (1982). He died on 28 February 2003 in Madras, Tamil Nadu, India.- Actor
- Costume Designer
- Vivek was born on 19 November 1961 in India. He was an actor, known for Sivaji (2007), Anniyan (2005) and Run (2002). He was married to Arulselvi Vivek. He died on 17 April 2021 in Chennai, India.
- Mayilsamy was born on 2 October 1965 in Sathyamangalam, Erode district, Tamil Nadu. He was an actor, known for 2.0 (2018), Kangalal Kaidhu Sei (2004) and Potta Potti (2011). He died on 19 February 2023.
- Music Artist
- Music Department
- Actor
Malaysia Vasudevan was born in 1943 in Klang, Selangor, Malaysia. He was a music artist and actor, known for Miss Lovely (2012), Vetri Vizha (1989) and Thambikku Entha Ooru (1984). He died on 20 February 2011 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.- Actor
- Director
V.S. Raghavan was born in 1925 in Vembakkam, South Arcot District, Madras Presidency, British India. He was an actor and director, known for Samaya Sanjeevani (1957), Indru Netru Naalai (2015) and Naanum Oru Thozhilaali (1986). He died on 24 January 2015 in Chennai, India.- Actor
- Director
- Writer
Manivannan was born on 31 July 1954 in Sulur, Madras State, India. He was an actor and director, known for Jallikkattu (1987), Aathi (2006) and Pudhu Manithan (1991). He was married to Sengamalam. He died on 15 June 2013 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.- Kalpana was born on 8 July 1943 in Mangalore. She was an actress, known for Sharapanjara (1971), Belli Moda (1967) and Yava Janmada Maithri (1972). She was married to Sachin Bhowmick. She died on 12 May 1979 in Sankeshwar, Karnataka.
- Ramachandran T.R. is known for Thangamalai Rahasyam (1957), Naan Vanangum Daivam (1963) and Dewan Bahadur (1943).
- Actor
- Producer
- Director
V.K. Ramasamy was born in 1926 in India. He was an actor and producer, known for Paayum Puli (1983), Rudhra Thaandavam (1978) and Vikram (1986). He died on 24 December 2002 in India.- Actress
- Director
- Producer
Varalakshmi G. was born on 27 September 1926 in Ongole, Madras Presidency, British India. She was an actress and director, known for Kanna Talli (1953), Moogajeevulu (1968) and Purana Purush. She was married to K.S. Prakash Rao. She died on 25 November 2006 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.- Actor
- Costume Designer
- Actor
- Writer
- Director
Jawar N. Sitaraman was born in Trichy, Tamil Nadu, India. He is known for Kuzhandaiyum Deivamum (1965), Main Chup Rahungi (1962) and Suraj (1966).- T.K. Bhagavathi is known for Alavuddinum Athbutha Vilakkum (1979), Aarilirindhu Aruvathu Varai (1979) and Sivagangai Seemai (1959).
- C.R. Vijayakumari is known for Kadhal Sadugudu (2003), Poove Unakkaga (1996) and Thanga Magan (1983).
- M.S. Draupadi was born on 8 April 1928 in Tirupur, India. She is an actress, known for Ratha Pasam (1954), Thigambara Samiar (1950) and Gumastavin Penn (1941).