At IFFI 2024, Tamil cinema’s beloved star opens up about resilience, fan love, and the life lessons that keep him grounded.
The journey of Sivakarthikeyan, rising from modest origins to establish himself as one of the most prominent figures in Tamil cinema, exemplifies a narrative filled with determination, enthusiasm, and unwavering resolve. During the 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI), he participated in a captivating discussion with actor and politician KhushbuSundar, providing insights into his life, career, and sources of inspiration.
The moment he entered the bustling hall, the atmosphere at Kala Academy in Goa was electric, filled with enthusiastic applause and whistles that echoed throughout the auditorium. The influence of Tamil Superstar Sivakarthikeyan is palpable, resonating strongly both in his cinematic roles and in his public persona.
Sivakartikeyan expressed, “From the very beginning, Cinema has always been my passion and I always wanted to entertain the audience.” “My journey began with television anchoring, providing me the opportunity to explore a career in entertainment, a path I pursued with great enthusiasm.”
In a moment of nostalgia, Sivakarthikeyan shared his experiences from his formative years as a mimicry artist, stating, “I used to mimic my professors in engineering college.” Subsequently, upon offering my apologies, they responded with encouragement, emphasising that this talent ought to be directed appropriately.
The actor disclosed that the sudden loss of his father marked a significant turning point in his life. Following the loss of my father, I found myself on the brink of depression. He expressed that his work provided an escape, stating, “The whistles and claps from my audience became my therapy,” and acknowledged the love and support from his fans as a source of his resilience.

Khushbu Sundar commended his unwavering determination and integrity, referring to them as the most significant anchors in his life. Sivakarthikeyan expressed his sentiments, stating, “I’ve always had the urge to stand out among millions while still feeling connected to the common man.”
“Life presents numerous challenges, yet pursuing one’s passion can serve as a powerful means to navigate and surmount these obstacles. At one point, the thought of surrendering crossed my mind; however, the unwavering support from my audience inspired me to persevere,” he said.
He began his career as a mimicry artist, but his father’s sudden death led to depression. Sivakarthikeyan found solace in his fans’ support and the love he received from them. He transitioned from television to cinema, focusing on significant roles in films like Doctor, Don, and Amaran. He used humor as a shield to navigate the transition and infused joy into audiences.
Sivakarthikeyan advised the younger generation to “sing like a free bird, but always find your way back to your nest.” He believes in maintaining strong roots and providing the best for their children. His journey is a testament to passion, resilience, and the transformative power of dreams.
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