Vijay is an Indian actor who predominantly stars in Tamil-language films. Born on June 22, 1974, in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, he hails from a film-oriented family, naturally inclined him towards acting from a young age. His full name is Joseph Vijay Chandrasekhar, and he is affectionately known as “Thalapathy” (commander) by his fans.
Vijay grew up in Chennai where he pursued his passion for acting and dancing. His early life in Chennai’s bustling cultural environment nurtured his talents and future career aspirations. His father, S. A. Chandrasekhar, is a well-known Tamil film director, and his mother, Shoba Chandrasekhar, is a singer.
Vijay debuted his lead role in Naalaiya Theerpu (1992) at just eighteen, directed by his father. Despite a modest start, Vijay steadily rose to prominence in Tamil cinema through the 1990s with hit films like Poove Unakkaga (1996) and Kadhalukku Mariyadhai (1997). These films established him as a romantic hero, and his charismatic screen presence won him a large fan base.
Over the years, Vijay’s career has been marked by a significant number of blockbuster hits such as Ghilli (2004), Thuppakki (2012), and Mersal (2017). His films are well-known for their energetic dance numbers, powerful performances, and engaging narratives. Vijay’s ability to connect with the audience through various roles, from action heroes to comedic characters, has solidified his status as one of the leading stars in South Indian cinema.
Vijay has received numerous awards for his performances, including the Tamil Nadu State Film Awards and nominations for the Filmfare Awards South. He is also noted for his philanthropic efforts, often discreetly contributing to social causes and charity work.
Aside from his acting career, Vijay is a noted playback singer and has sung several popular songs for his films. His personal life is marked by a devotion to his family, including his wife Sangeetha and their two children.
Vijay maintains a strong presence on social media, sharing updates about his films and occasionally glimpses of his off-screen life. His followers admire him for his on-screen prowess and his simplicity and humility in real life.