Santhanam’s Humorous Journey from Nakkal Comedy to Tamil Cinema

Santhanam, a well-known comedian and actor in Tamil cinema, has a rich and diverse background that spans various forms of comedy and entertainment. His journey in the world of comedy began in the troupe called Nungambakkum Boys Kondaatam, where he performed plays and nakkal comedies alongside fellow comedians like MS Bhaskar.

Early Beginnings: Nakkal Comedy

Santhanam's journey into comedy started with the Nungambakkum Boys Kondaatam troupe. This troupe was famous for their theatrical performances and nakkal comedies, which are a form of street comedy prevalent in Tamil Nadu. The troupe members, including Santhanam and MS Bhaskar, performed skits and other comedic acts to entertain the crowds. These early days in comedy laid the foundation for Santhanam's career in the entertainment industry.

Transition to Movies and First Breaks

To generate additional income, Santhanam ventured into the film industry. He made his first appearance as an extra in the movie 'Kadhal Azhivadhillai.' Later, he capitalized on his comedic skills and was chosen by director Ram Bala in 'Lollu Sabha.' In this film, he collaborated with other novice comedians such as Easter Maran, Seshu Manohar, and Swaminathan. Santhanam's performance in 'Lollu Sabha' was notable, and he soon signed a significant five-year contract with Star Vijay, a network dedicated to Tamil television.

Popularity and Major Roles

Santhanam's popularity was further cemented when he appeared in the popular show 'Ragala vs Sagala,' alongside Chinni Jayanth. His first major break in films came in 'Manmadhan,' where he played Simbu's friend. Over the years, Santhanam had small but impactful roles in several films, often as minor comedians, working alongside more prominent comedians like Vivek and Vadivelu in movies such as 'Sillunu Oru Kadhal,' released in 2006.

Solo Career and Collaborations

The turning point in Santhanam's career came with the release of 'Siva Manasula Sakthi,' which marked the beginning of his solo career. This film saw him taking on leading roles as a comedian, emphasizing his comedic skills without relying on a supporting lead. One of the key factors that contributed to this change was the recommendation from comedian Sivakarthikeyan, often seen as a young and up-and-coming talent. Sivakarthikeyan's influence helped Santhanam secure these leading roles in other films as well, including a memorable appearance with Vaalu.

Career Reflection

Reflecting on his extensive career, Santhanam has expressed his preference for not working as a supporting comedian in films with lead heroes. He concluded his solo career with a movie in 2015, bringing an end to his collaborative roles with lead actors. This decision was influenced by the recognition he received as a leading figure in comedy, with a particular mention of the transition between him and his contemporaries like Dhanush, following the success of 'Polladhavan.'

In conclusion, Santhanam's career is a testament to the versatility and enduring popularity of nakkal comedy in Tamil cinema. His journey from the streets to the silver screen showcases the evolution of comedy and talent in the Indian film industry.