“Cinema is a very versatile medium. To be at the service of this medium, you have to be versatile; you have to know so many things.”Indian cinema has witnessed several actors who have expanded their creative journeys beyond acting. They have directed films, produced projects, written lyrics, sung songs and even contributed to technical aspects of the film.Here’s a look at some of the actors who have built successful careers by taking on multiple responsibilities in film.
Kamal Haasan
Kamal Haasan is one of the most loved multi-talented stars of Indian cinema. He has acted in more than 230 films in various languages. His achievements go far beyond acting. Kamal Haasan has directed acclaimed films like ‘Hey Ram’, ‘Virumaandi’ and ‘Vishwaroopam’. He has also worked as a producer, screenwriter, lyricist, choreographer, editor and assistant director. Trained in advanced makeup techniques by Hollywood makeup legend Michael Westmore, he has consistently pushed the boundaries of character transformation. As a playback singer and lyricist he has contributed to numerous memorable songs including ‘Kanmani Anbodu Kadhalan’, ‘Thenpandi Seemaayile’, ‘Inji Idupazhagi’ and more.Films like ‘Nayakan’, ‘Anbe Sivam’, ‘Dasavathaaram’ and ‘Vishwaroopam’ showcase his range as an actor and filmmaker.
Thalapathy Vijay i Dhanush
Thalapathy Vijay started his career as a child artist before becoming one of the biggest stars in Tamil cinema. He has scored several commercial hits including ‘Ghilli’, ‘Thuppakki’, ‘Mersal’, ‘Master’, ‘Leo’ and more.Vijay has also made his mark as a playback singer with songs like ‘Google Google’, ‘Verithanam’ and ‘Na Ready’. All these songs turned out to be trends.Tamil actor Dhanush has also established himself as a complete filmmaker and along with acclaimed performances in films like ‘Aadukalam’, ‘Pudhupettai’, ‘Karnan’, ‘Asuran’ and ‘Raanjhanaa’, he has built an inspiring career as a playback singer, lyricist, producer and director. His song ‘Why This Kolaveri Di’ became an international sensation. Dhanush’s directorial films include ‘Pa. Pandi’, ‘Raayan’, ‘Nilavuku En Mel Ennadi Kobam’, ‘Idli Kadai’.
Prithviraj Sukumaran
Prithviraj Sukumaran has consistently taken on responsibilities beyond acting. Since making his debut with ‘Nandanam’ in 2002, he has given memorable performances in films like ‘Classmates’, ‘Vaasthavam’, ‘Celluloid’, ‘Ayalum Njanum Thammil’, ‘Ennu Ninte Moideen’, ‘Ezra’, ‘Ayyappanum Koshiyum’, and ‘The Goaaar Life’, and more.He has also built a successful career as a producer and director. His directorial debut, ‘Lucifer’, became a blockbuster and established him as a filmmaker. He has lent his voice as a playback singer for projects like ‘Kettille Kettille’ from ‘Pokkiriraja’, ‘Puthiya Mugham’, ‘Premamennaal’ and more.Prithviraj recently shared his excitement after receiving an encouraging response to ‘Circus’, a song from his latest film ‘I, Nobody’. The theme has been composed by Jakes Bejoy with lyrics by Zeeba Tomy. It has garnered attention because it is sung by the actor’s 11-year-old daughter Alankrita Menon Prithviraj.Expressing his gratitude to X, Prithviraj wrote, “Thank you for the love, reviews and comments on I, Nobody. ‘Circus’ from I, Nobody, composed by Jakes Bejoy and written by Zeeba Tomy, is a very special song for us as it is sung by our little Ally, all 11 years old!”She also dedicated a heartfelt message to her daughter, adding: “Dear Ally, Mamma and Daada are so proud of the passion and drive you’ve cultivated in music and we hope and pray you keep the fire burning forever. Thanks to ‘Uncle Jakes’ for trusting her with this amazing track and guiding her through the process.”