S.J. Surya: A Versatile Force in Tamil Cinema
S.J. Surya, born Justin Selvaraj Samanasu Pandian on July 20, 1968, in Vasudevanallur, Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu, is a prominent figure in the Tamil film industry. Known for his multifaceted talents, Surya is an accomplished actor, director, screenwriter, composer, producer, and music director. He is celebrated for his versatile acting skills and his willingness to make bold and unconventional choices in his career.
Early Life and Education
Surya was born to Sammanasu Pandian and Anandham and has an older sister named Selvi and an older brother named Victor. He pursued a BA in Sociology from Loyola College, Chennai.
Acting Debut and Early Roles
Surya made his acting debut in 1988 with an uncredited role as a villager in the film “Nethiyadi.” He continued to appear in small roles, including a bull trainer in “Kizhakku Cheemayile” and an auto driver in “Aasai.” In 2000, he played a minor role in the Vijay-starrer “Kushi.” His breakthrough as a leading actor came with the 2004 film “New,” where he played a young man framed for a crime he did not commit. This role established him as a star in the Tamil film industry.
Directorial Success and Career Breakthrough
Surya honed his skills as an assistant director under Vasanth and Sabapathy before making his directorial debut with the critically and commercially successful film “Vaali” in 1999, starring Ajith Kumar. This success launched his career as a director. Surya’s acting career took off with a guest appearance in the 2004 film “Naani” and a full-fledged breakthrough in the 2005 film “New.”
Notable Performances and Awards
Surya continued to impress with his performances in films like “Anbe Aaruyire” (2005), “Kalvanin Kadhali” (2006), and “Thirumagan” (2007). His role as a ruthless villain in the 2017 film “Spyder” showcased his range and earned him the Vijay Award for Best Villain.
Recent Projects and Experimentation
In recent years, Surya has starred in a variety of genres, including action films like “Mersal” (2017) and “Maanaadu” (2021), as well as dramas like “Nenjam Marappathillai” (2021) and “Kadamaiyai Sei” (2022). He also directed the critically acclaimed film “Isai” in 2015.
Legacy and Future
S.J. Surya is a true artist who is not afraid to take risks. His versatility and bold choices have made him a force to be reckoned with in the Tamil film industry. As he continues to entertain and amaze audiences, Surya’s legacy as a multifaceted talent is sure to endure for many years to come.
Physical Status & More
- Height (approx.):
- in centimeters: 178 cm
- in meters: 1.78 m
- in feet inches: 5’ 10”
- Weight (approx.):
- in kilograms: 65 kg
- in pounds: 143 lbs
- Body Measurements (approx.):
- Chest: 38 inches
- Waist: 32 inches
- Biceps: 12 inches
- Eye Colour: Dark Brown
- Hair Colour: Black
Personal Life
- Date of Birth: July 20, 1968 (Saturday)
- Age (as of 2023): 55 Years
- Birth Place: Vasudevanallur, Tirunelveli district, Tamil Nadu, India
- Zodiac Sign/Sun Sign: Cancer
- Nationality: Indian
- Hometown: Vasudevanallur, Tirunelveli district, Tamil Nadu, India
- School: The Indian High School, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
- College: Loyola College, Chennai, Tamil Nadu
- Education Qualification: Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Sociology
Career Debut
- Tamil Film: Nethiyadi (1988)
- Telugu Film: Kushi (2001)
- Bollywood Film: Khushi (2003)
- Tamil Directorial: Vaali (1999)
- Telugu Directorial: Kushi (2001)
- Bollywood Directorial: Khushi (2003)
- Tamil Screenwriting: Vaali (1999)
- Telugu Screenwriting: Kushi (2001)
- Bollywood Screenwriting: Khushi (2003)
- Tamil Production: New (2004)
Family
- Father: Sammanasu Pandian
- Mother: Anandham
- Brother: Victor (Elder)
- Sister: Selvi (Elder)
Religion
- Hinduism
Hobbies
- Reading
- Writing
- Travelling
Favourite Things
- Favourite Sport: Cricket
- Favourite Colours: Blue, White
- Favourite Director: Vasanth
Personal Relationships
- Marital Status: Unmarried
- Affairs/Girlfriends: Not Known
- Wife/Spouse: N/A
- Children:
- Son: N/A
- Daughter: N/A
S.J. Surya is a multifaceted talent in the Tamil film industry, known for his versatility in acting, directing, screenwriting, composing, producing, and music directing. His extensive career and personal background highlight his dedication and passion for cinema.
