My First Break: Sathyan

Actor Sathyan.

How it happened

My father, ‘Mathampatti' Sivakumar, has produced five films of which Chinna Thambi Periya Thambi and Thainadu became hits. At that time, I was very small and didn't know much about films. Despite having my father in the industry, I didn't nurture any ambition to act. When I was studying in P.S.G Arts College, Coimbatore, my friends encouraged me to act in movies. After completing BBM, I made my debut as hero in my father's own production titled Ilayavan . The highlight of the movie was the music by Ilaiyaraja.

How it felt

I watched the movie in Woodlands theatre (Chennai) along with the public. Though I was new to the field, the response I got, especially to the comedy scenes, was unbelievable. I was very happy and felt as if I had scaled the Himalayas. Only after some time did I realise that it was only the starting point in my career and that I had to work really hard to reach the top.

How life changed

People began to appreciate my talent. I started getting good roles. My 50th film

Kasethaan Kadavulada is releasing soon. I am acting in nearly a dozen films such as

Vallakottai with Arjun,

Kanda with Karan,

Raudhram with Jeeva,

Mappilai with Dhanush, Thankar Batchan's

Kalavadiya Pozhudhugal ,

Mittai and

Agarathi . I am happy with what I am doing now and would like to continue this way.