
Thyagarajan
Thyagarajan is an Indian actor, best known for Tamil cinema. Thyagarajan began their career in 1982 and has been a prominent figure in the industry for over 44 years. With over 60 credits to their name and an average audience rating of 6.7, Thyagarajan remains one of the most prolific and celebrated talents in the industry. Spanning 40+ years, Thyagarajan's career remains one of the longest and most celebrated in Tamil cinema.
- Born
Biography
Thiagarajan is an Indian actor, director and producer of Tamil films. He is the father of Tamil actor Prashanth.
Personal Info
Career Milestones
Film debut
View film →Highest rated: PT Sir (8.1)
View film →Iconic Roles
Nenjangal
Played a lead role in his own directorial debut, a socially relevant film.
Chekka Chivantha Vaanam
Appeared in a supporting role in this Mani Ratnam-directed multi-starrer crime thriller.
Defining Moments
Directorial Debut
Made his debut as a director with the film 'Nenjangal', which he also acted in.
Return to Acting
Returned to the screen with a notable role in Mani Ratnam's 'Chekka Chivantha Vaanam' after a long hiatus.
Filmography
See all 60 credits →






Career Analytics
Genre Breakdown
Language Distribution
Films by Decade
Top Co-Actors
See all →







Did You Know?
Thyagarajan is the son of veteran Tamil film director and producer A. L. Srinivasan (A.L.S.).
He made his directorial debut with the film 'Nenjangal' in 1982, which also featured him in a lead role.
He is the founder of the film production company 'Sree Rajalakshmi Films'.
Thyagarajan is the father of popular Tamil actor Prashanth.
He has worked predominantly in the Tamil film industry as an actor, director, and producer.
Photos
See all →No photos available.
Family

Child
Prashanth
Legacy & Influence
Thyagarajan, born in 1945, carved a multifaceted career in Tamil cinema as an actor, director, and producer, primarily active from the late 1970s through the 1980s. His legacy is defined by his versatility behind the camera and his role in fostering cinematic talent, most notably as the father and early mentor to actor Prashanth. As an actor, he often appeared in supporting and character roles, contributing to the narrative fabric of films like 'Nenjangal' (1982). His greater impact, however, lies in his directorial and production work. He directed several films, including the notable 'Nalla Naal' (1984), which is remembered for its social themes and strong performances. His production ventures through his banner, Sujatha Cine Arts, provided a platform for various technical and acting talents during a vibrant period in Tamil cinema. While not a perennial box-office star, Thyagarajan's steady work ethic and willingness to take on diverse roles—from acting to directing and producing—demonstrated a deep commitment to the film industry's ecosystem. His career trajectory reflects the path of a dedicated cinema professional who contributed across multiple domains without seeking the limelight, thereby supporting the industry's infrastructure. His most enduring contribution remains his influence on the next generation, both within his family and through the opportunities he created for others, leaving a mark as a reliable and respected figure in the Tamil film community.