Veteran actor Sivakumar has shared his thoughts on how his family dynamics have evolved, acknowledging his son, Suriya, as the current guiding force. In a recent interview with Cinema Express, Sivakumar expressed that Suriya now leads the family, a transition that marks a new chapter in their lives.
Sivakumar fondly recalled the years he spent nurturing and guiding Suriya, from his education to his early career. He proudly recounted how Suriya initially worked in another job before eventually becoming a celebrated hero in Tamil cinema. Sivakumar debuted in Tamil cinema in 1965 with the movie Kaakum Karangal and has acted as the lead in 195 movies.
"For many years, I looked after the family, but now, he guides it," Sivakumar stated. "Now we are all under his guidance, and moving ahead with his leadership". This declaration highlights the respect and confidence Sivakumar has in Suriya's ability to lead and make decisions for the family's well-being.
Suriya, born Saravanan Sivakumar on July 23, 1975, is not only a leading actor but also a film producer in the Tamil film industry. He is the elder son of Sivakumar and Lakshmi, and his younger brother Karthi is also a well-known actor. Suriya is married to actress Jyothika, and they have two children, a daughter named Diya and a son named Dev.
Suriya's journey to stardom began with his debut in Nerrukku Ner (1997). His breakthrough role came with Nandha (2001), followed by his first major commercial success with Kaakha Kaakha (2003). Over the years, he has delivered numerous award-winning performances in films such as Pithamagan (2003), Perazhagan (2004), and Ghajini (2005). His roles in Ayan (2009) and the Singam trilogy solidified his position as an action star. Suriya has also received critical acclaim for his work in Soorarai Pottru (2020) and Jai Bhim (2021), with Soorarai Pottru earning him the National Film Award for Best Actor.
Beyond his cinematic achievements, Suriya is known for his philanthropic endeavors. He is actively involved in the Agaram Foundation, which he founded in 2008 to support children who drop out of school early in Tamil Nadu. The foundation provides learning opportunities and has sponsored numerous underprivileged students for higher education. Suriya, along with his father and brother, also supports the education of Sri Lankan Tamil children through the Sivakumar Charitable Trust.
Suriya's commitment to social causes extends to campaigns like "Save The Tigers" and providing free TB medication through non-profit organizations. He often celebrates his birthdays by engaging in charity work across Tamil Nadu. In February 2025, the Sivakumar family, including Suriya, Karthi, and Jyothika, came together to inaugurate a new building for the Agaram Foundation in Chennai, demonstrating their continued dedication to education and social welfare.
Currently, Suriya is working on his film Suriya46 with director Venky Atluri. He was last seen in a lead role in the action film Retro, directed by Karthik Subbaraj. His upcoming projects include a lead role in the film Karuppu, directed by RJ Balaji, and another project with Mamitha Baiju, directed by Venky Atluri.