Prithviraj Sukumaran to Dhanush: Actors who wore many hats; singers, directors, producers and more
“Cinema is a very versatile medium. To be serving that medium, you have to be versatile; you have to know so many things.”Indian cinema has witnessed several actors who have expanded their creative journeys beyond acting. They have directed films, produced projects, written lyrics, sung songs and even contributed to technical aspects of cinema.Here is a look at some of the actors who have built successful careers by taking on multiple responsibilities in cinema.
Kamal Haasan
Kamal Haasan is one of the most loved multi-talented stars in Indian cinema. He has acted in more than 230 films across multiple languages. His achievements extend well beyond acting. Kamal Haasan has directed acclaimed films such as ‘Hey Ram’, ‘Virumaandi’ and ‘Vishwaroopam’. He has also worked as a producer, screenwriter, lyricist, choreographer, editor and assistant director. Trained in advanced makeup techniques by Hollywood makeup legend Michael Westmore, he has consistently pushed the boundaries of character transformation. As a playback singer and lyricist he has contributed to numerous memorable songs including ‘ Kanmani Anbodu Kadhalan’, ‘ Thenpandi Seemaayile’, ‘ Inji Idupazhagi’ and more.Films like ‘Nayakan’, ‘Anbe Sivam’, ‘Dasavathaaram’ and ‘Vishwaroopam’ shows his range as both an actor and filmmaker.
Thalapathy Vijay and Dhanush
Thalapathy Vijay started his career as a child artist before turning out as one of Tamil cinema’s biggest stars. He has delivered several commercial successes that include ‘Ghilli’, ‘Thuppakki’, ‘Mersal’, ‘Master’, ‘Leo’ and more.Vijay has also made a mark as a playback singer with songs such as ‘Google Google’, ‘Verithanam’ and ‘Na Ready’. All of these songs turned out to be trend setters.Tamil actor Dhanush has also established himself as a complete filmmaker and along with acclaimed performances in films like ‘Aadukalam’, ‘Pudhupettai’, ‘Karnan’, ‘Asuran’ and ‘Raanjhanaa’, he has built an inspiring career as a playback singer, lyricist, producer and director. His song ‘Why This Kolaveri Di’ became an international sensation. Dhanush’s directorial films include ‘Pa. Pandi’, ‘Raayan’, ‘Nilavuku En Mel Ennadi Kobam’, ‘Idli Kadai’.
Prithviraj Sukumaran
Prithviraj Sukumaran has consistently taken responsibilities beyond acting. Since making his debut with ‘Nandanam’ in 2002 he has delivered memorable performances in films such as ‘Classmates’, ‘Vaasthavam’, ‘Celluloid’, ‘Ayalum Njanum Thammil’, ‘Ennu Ninte Moideen’, ‘Ezra’, ‘Ayyappanum Koshiyum’, ‘The Goat Life’, ‘Salaar’, and more.He has also built a successful career as a producer and director. His directorial debut, ‘Lucifer’, became a blockbuster and established him as a filmmaker. He has lent his voice as a playback singer for projects including Kettille Kettille” from ‘Pokkiriraja’, ‘Puthiya Mugham’, “Premamennaal”, and more.Prithviraj recently shared his excitement after receiving an encouraging response to ‘Circus’, a song from his latest film ‘I, Nobody’. The track has been composed by Jakes Bejoy with lyrics by Zeeba Tomy. It has attracted attention because it is sung by the actor’s 11-year-old daughter, Alankrita Menon Prithviraj.Expressing his gratitude on X, Prithviraj wrote, “Thank you for the love, reviews and feedback on I, Nobody. ‘Circus’ from I, Nobody, composed by Jakes Bejoy, and written by Zeeba Tomy, is a very special song for us as this is sung by our own little Ally, all of 11 years old!”He also dedicated a heartfelt message to his daughter, adding, “Dear Ally, Mamma and Daada are so so proud of the passion and drive you have cultivated in music and we hope and pray you keep the fire burning forever. Thanks to ‘Jakes uncle’ for trusting her with this incredible track and guiding her through the whole process.”
