Vadivelu: The Enduring Legacy of Vaigai Puyal Kumaravadivel Natarajan, popularly known as Vadivelu, is a prominent figure in Tamil cinema, celebrated for his comedic genius. Boasting over 290 film credits since his 1988 debut in En Thangai Kalyani, his career trajectory has been nothing short of remarkable. Initially launched during the reign of the Goundamani-Senthil comedy duo, Vadivelu's unique brand of humor quickly propelled him to stardom, earning him the moniker "Vaigai Puyal." His comedic style, often characterized by portraying a misunderstood underdog facing slapstick violence and ridicule, resonated deeply with audiences. This resonated This earned him numerous accolades, including two Filmfare Awards South and six
Tamil Nadu State Film Awards for Best Comedian in films like Kaalam Maari Pochu, Vetri Kodi Kattu, Thavasi, Chandramukhi, Imsai Arasan 23rd Pulikecei, Pokkiri, Marudhamalai, and Kathavarayan. His lead role in Imsai Arasan 23rd Pulikesi (2006) marked a significant milestone, achieving both commercial and critical success. Despite a career slowdown in the 2010s, Vadivelu's enduring popularity is evident in the resurgence of his iconic expressions in Indian internet memes. The 2019 viral sensation "#PrayForNesamani" further solidified his cultural impact. While recent acting projects haven't been widely publicized, his legacy as a comedic titan of Tamil cinema remains undeniable.
