Samuthirakani Films -

Samuthirakani’s acting career has arguably eclipsed his directorial fame in recent years. He is currently one of the most sought-after character artists in South India.

Nadodigal or Saattai .

. He portrays a conflicted police inspector in this harrowing crime drama. Subramaniapuram (2008) : A breakthrough performance as the manipulative Kanagu, earning him a Filmfare nomination. Velaiyilla Pattathari (2014) : A fan-favorite role where he plays a relatable, strict-yet-loving father to Dhanush. RRR (2022) : A significant Telugu appearance as Venkateswarulu, the uncle of Sitarama Raju, in this global blockbuster. Writer (2021) : A powerful lead role where he plays a veteran police writer dealing with systemic injustice. Kaantha (2025) : A recent performance as "Ayya" alongside Dulquer Salmaan, praised for its emotional depth. Show more Essential Director Credits As a director, Samuthirakani often infuses his films with strong social messages and philosophical undertones. Naadodigal (2009) : His directorial breakout, focusing on friendship and sacrifice. It was a massive commercial hit and remade in multiple languages. Appa (2016) : A social drama exploring different parenting styles and education, which he also starred in. Vinodhaya Sitham (2021) : A philosophical drama where he plays the personification of "Time". He recently remade this in Telugu as Bro (2023) starring Pawan Kalyan. Saattai (2012) : Although he did not direct this, he played the lead role of a reformist teacher, and the film is often associated with his directorial brand of social messaging. Show more Recent & Upcoming Films Samuthirakani continues to be highly prolific across Tamil and Telugu industries. Year Film Role Status 2024 Indian 2 Varadharajan Released 2024 Siren DSP Nagalingam Released 2025 Ramam Raghavam Dasaradh Ramam Streaming on samuthirakani films

Focus: His iconic screen presence — stern, righteous, emotional. Velaiyilla Pattathari (2014) : A fan-favorite role where