Tamil cinema has seen many legendary actors, but only a few have left an indelible mark on the industry. Among them, Ravichandran stands tall as an icon who not only played lead roles with grace but also transitioned into a successful director. Known for his powerful screen presence and versatility, he was celebrated as Kalaingnar Thilagham and Puratchi Kalaignar, titles that reflected his deep impact on Tamil cinema. His journey, filled with determination and resilience, is a true inspiration for aspiring actors and filmmakers.
Early Life and Education of Ravichandran
Born as B. S. Raman on March 30, 1942, in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Ravichandran’s life took a dramatic turn when his family moved to Tiruchirappalli, India, in 1951. He studied at St. Joseph’s College, where he not only excelled in academics but also displayed a passion for performing arts. Even before entering films, he performed in stage plays such as Aanaiyidungal Anna and Udhaya Suriyan. Little did he know that these humble beginnings would lead him to an illustrious cinematic career.
The Grand Entry into Tamil Cinema
Ravichandran’s entry into cinema was nothing short of destiny. In 1963, while visiting Madras, he met director Sridhar, who was searching for a fresh face for his film Kadhalikka Neramillai. His striking personality and acting skills won him the role, and the film became a massive hit when it was released on February 27, 1964. This breakthrough role opened the doors for a series of successful films, establishing him as a leading hero from 1964 to 1979.
Rise to Stardom: A Trailblazer in Tamil Cinema
Ravichandran soon became a household name, known for his charismatic performances. He worked alongside legendary actors like Sivaji Ganesan, MGR, Jayalalithaa, and K. R. Vijaya, cementing his place in Tamil cinema. Some of his most memorable films include:
- Athe Kangal
- Naan
- Mundrezhthu
- Kumarippenn
These films showcased his ability to portray diverse roles, from intense drama to lighthearted romance. His on-screen chemistry with leading heroines of that era made him one of the most sought-after actors of his time.
Transition to Supporting Roles and Direction
After an illustrious run as a lead hero, Ravichandran gracefully transitioned into supporting roles from 1986, proving that his acting prowess knew no bounds. His passion for storytelling led him to venture into film direction. His debut as a director came with Manaseega Kadhal in 1999, where he introduced his son Hamsavardhan as the lead actor. The film, credited under his real name P. S. Raman, received critical acclaim.
He later directed Mandiran, a film that carried a powerful social message. His ability to craft meaningful narratives made him a respected filmmaker, adding yet another feather to his cap.
Personal Life: A Family Rooted in Cinema
Ravichandran’s personal life was as eventful as his cinematic journey. He married Vimala, with whom he had three children: Lavanya, Balaji, and Hamsavardhan. Later, he married Malayalam actress Sheela, and they had a son, George Vishnu. However, after his divorce from Sheela, he reunited with Vimala.
His sons, Hamsavardhan and George Vishnu, followed in his footsteps and pursued acting careers. His granddaughter, Tanya Ravichandran, has also made her mark in the Tamil film industry, continuing the family’s cinematic legacy.
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