You've been acting for more than 25 years. What made you switch to direction?
I've done over 200 films in the four South Indian languages and with almost all the top heroes. In my second innings, I appeared in hits such as Puthu Puthu Arthangal and Agninatchathiram . I thought of trying something different, hence direction. I am directing Nane Ennul Illai in which my son Amaresh Ganesh plays the lead.
Did you start directing films because of your son?
No. My first directorial venture was Pudhiyaragam for which Illaiyaraja scored the music. Then I did “Sivaranjani”, a 200-episode serial for Doordarshan, Chennai. As I believe I have a flair for direction, I am now doing Nane Ennul ….
What made you cast young Amaresh in Nane Ennul … which we know is not a love story?
I deliberately avoided a love story, for I wanted him to showcase his acting skill in his debut film itself. The story is about a young, college boy who comes up in life the hard way.
Do you think direction is a burden compared to acting?
Certainly not. There are two highlights in Nane Ennul… . For the first time in the history of films, a 22-year-old boy not only plays the hero but also scores the music. Another big thing is a mother directing her son.
Which are the five best films of your career?
Ponnuku Thanga Manasu, Sollathan Ninaikirean, Cinema Paithiyam, Vellikizhamai Viradham and Puthuputhu Arthangal .
