The Talents Behind Charukesi

Cast & Crew

A constellation of National and Kalaimamani honourees — gathered for a film that demands the very best of every craft.

Y. G. Mahendra

Y. G. Mahendra

Actor | Dramatist | Director | Theatre Visionary

Y. G. Mahendra, fondly known as YGee Mahendra, is one of India’s most respected theatre personalities—an accomplished actor, playwright, director, and cultural torchbearer who has dedicated over five decades to the performing arts. With a career spanning theatre, cinema, and television, he stands as a rare artist who has seamlessly balanced tradition with innovation.

Born into a distinguished artistic family, Mahendra inherited the legacy of the iconic theatre group United Amateur Artists (UAA), founded by his illustrious father Y. G. Parthasarathy. Under his leadership, UAA has flourished for more than 50 years, producing numerous acclaimed plays and nurturing generations of theatre talent.

A powerhouse performer, Mahendra is celebrated for his versatility and stage presence. His ability to effortlessly transition between comedy, satire, and intense drama has made him a beloved figure among audiences. He has performed a wide spectrum of roles, bringing depth, timing, and authenticity to every character.

One of his most remarkable achievements is his association with the long-running stage play RPR, written by Venkat, which has been performed for over five decades—an extraordinary milestone in Indian theatre. Mahendra has been an integral part of this production since its inception, a testament to his enduring commitment and passion for the stage.

Beyond theatre, Mahendra has made a significant mark in Tamil cinema and television, appearing in numerous films and serials, often leaving a lasting impression with his distinctive performances. His work reflects discipline, dedication, and a deep understanding of character and narrative.

As a director, he has brought a unique sensibility to his productions—blending strong storytelling with engaging presentation while staying rooted in theatrical tradition. As a writer and creative mind, he continues to contribute meaningfully to contemporary theatre.

Respected by peers and loved by audiences, Y. G. Mahendra remains a symbol of artistic excellence, perseverance, and passion. His journey is not just a career—it is a legacy that continues to inspire the world of Indian theatre.

Deva

Deva

Music Director | Composer | “Gaana” Pioneer

Deva is one of Tamil cinema’s most prolific and celebrated music directors, known for his extraordinary ability to create instantly catchy, emotionally resonant, and mass-appeal music. With a career spanning several decades, he has composed music for hundreds of films and remains a defining force in South Indian film music.

Popularly referred to as the “Gaana King,” Deva played a pivotal role in bringing the vibrant, earthy style of Chennai’s gaana music into mainstream cinema. His compositions reflect a unique blend of folk energy, urban rhythm, melody, and simplicity—making his songs accessible and memorable across all sections of audiences.

Deva rose to prominence in the 1990s, a golden phase during which he delivered numerous chart-topping albums. His collaborations with leading actors and filmmakers resulted in some of the most popular songs of that era, many of which continue to be celebrated today. His music is characterized by strong rhythm patterns, engaging hooks, and an innate understanding of audience taste.

Beyond mass numbers, Deva has also composed soulful melodies and devotional music, showcasing his versatility and musical depth. His work bridges the gap between classical sensibilities and popular appeal, making him a composer who can effortlessly traverse genres.

Known for his speed, instinct, and consistency, Deva has been a dependable creative force in the industry. His contribution to Tamil cinema music is immense, having shaped the soundscape of an entire generation.

Even today, his music continues to evoke nostalgia, energy, and emotion—standing as a testament to his enduring legacy in Indian film music.

Suresh Krissna

Suresh Krissna

Director | Writer | Storyteller

Suresh Krissna is a distinguished Indian filmmaker known for his powerful storytelling, strong characterizations, and ability to blend mass appeal with emotional depth. With a career spanning several decades, he has directed and written films across multiple languages, earning a reputation as a director who understands both the pulse of the audience and the soul of a story.

He rose to prominence with some of the most iconic films in Indian cinema, most notably Baashha, starring Rajinikanth, which went on to become a cultural phenomenon and a benchmark for commercial storytelling. His filmography also includes memorable works like Annamalai and Veera, where his collaborations with leading stars showcased his unique ability to elevate star power while maintaining strong narrative engagement.

What sets Suresh Krissna apart is his versatility. He is equally at ease crafting high-energy commercial entertainers and emotionally rich narratives. His writing often explores themes of identity, relationships, morality, and transformation, bringing depth and relatability to his characters.

As a director, he is known for his clarity of vision, disciplined execution, and strong command over performance. He brings out nuanced performances from actors while ensuring that the storytelling remains engaging and impactful. His films often feature memorable dialogues, powerful emotional arcs, and moments that resonate deeply with audiences.

Beyond cinema, Suresh Krissna continues to contribute creatively through writing and developing new stories across formats, including television and film. His passion for storytelling remains unwavering, and his work continues to evolve with time while staying rooted in strong narrative values.

Respected by peers and admired by audiences, Suresh Krissna stands as a filmmaker who has not only created successful films but has also left a lasting imprint on Indian cinema through his vision, craft, and storytelling legacy.

Pa. Vijay

Pa. Vijay

Lyricist | Dialogue Writer | Poet | Actor

Pa. Vijay is a celebrated Tamil lyricist, writer, and poet whose words have touched millions with their emotional depth, simplicity, and philosophical resonance. Known for his ability to translate complex human emotions into relatable and memorable lines, he has carved a unique space in Indian cinema and literature.

He rose to prominence as a lyricist in Tamil films, penning a wide range of songs—from soulful melodies and romantic numbers to powerful philosophical and devotional tracks. His lyrics are known for their clarity, poetic beauty, and emotional connect, often blending contemporary expression with timeless values.

A recipient of the prestigious National Film Award for Best Lyrics, Pa. Vijay has consistently demonstrated excellence in his craft, creating songs that not only enhance storytelling but also stand independently as meaningful poetry.

Beyond lyrics, he has contributed as a dialogue writer, bringing strength and authenticity to character-driven narratives. His dialogues are often impactful yet rooted in simplicity, making them accessible and powerful at the same time.

Pa. Vijay is also an accomplished poet and author, having published several works that reflect his literary sensibilities and deep understanding of life, relationships, and human emotions. His creative journey also extends to acting and filmmaking, showcasing his multifaceted talent.

Respected for his dedication, discipline, and artistic integrity, Pa. Vijay continues to be a significant voice in Tamil cinema and literature. His words do not merely accompany visuals—they elevate them, leaving a lasting impression on audiences.

B. L. Sanjay

B. L. Sanjay

Director of Photography | Visual Storyteller

B. L. Sanjay is a highly respected cinematographer known for his ability to translate emotion into compelling visual language. With a strong eye for composition, lighting, and texture, he brings depth and atmosphere to every frame, making visuals not just seen, but felt.

Over the years, Sanjay has worked across diverse genres, demonstrating versatility and a keen understanding of narrative tone. Whether capturing intimate emotional moments or expansive cinematic sequences, his work consistently enhances storytelling by creating a distinct visual identity for each project.

His cinematography is marked by:
• Naturalistic lighting that adds realism and warmth
• Thoughtful framing that reflects character psychology
• Fluid camera movement that supports narrative flow
• Strong visual mood that complements the emotional arc

Sanjay has a collaborative approach, working closely with directors to ensure that every shot aligns with the film’s vision. His ability to balance technical precision with artistic intuition makes him a valuable creative partner on set.

In emotionally driven narratives, his camera becomes almost invisible—allowing performances to breathe while subtly amplifying their impact. In visually rich sequences, he crafts frames that are both aesthetically striking and narratively meaningful.

Known for his professionalism, discipline, and consistency, B. L. Sanjay continues to contribute significantly to contemporary cinema, shaping stories through light, lens, and perspective.

suhasini

Suhasini Maniratnam

Actor | Director | Producer

Suhasini Maniratnam is a highly acclaimed Indian actress, director, and producer known for her profound contributions to Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and Kannada cinema. A recipient of the National Film Award for Best Actress for her performance in Sindhu Bhairavi, she brings immense depth and emotional resonance to her roles. With her expressive eyes and powerful dialogue delivery, she effortlessly inhabits complex characters. Beyond acting, Suhasini is a versatile talent who has directed films and remains a vital voice in South Indian cinema.

sathyaraj

Sathyaraj

Actor | Legend

Sathyaraj is a legendary actor whose illustrious career spans over four decades and hundreds of films. Initially known for his menacing villain roles and dynamic anti-hero personas, he evolved into one of Tamil cinema's most versatile leading men and character actors. He gained nationwide and international fame as "Kattappa" in the Baahubali franchise. Known for his commanding screen presence, impeccable comic timing, and ability to deliver powerful emotional performances, Sathyaraj continues to captivate audiences with his unmatched charisma.

samuthirakani

Samuthirakani

Actor | Director

Samuthirakani is a multi-faceted talent in the Indian film industry, highly respected both as an actor and a director. A recipient of the National Film Award for Best Supporting Actor for his stellar performance in Visaranai, he is known for bringing intense authenticity and social consciousness to his roles. His performances are marked by a deep sense of conviction, often portraying grounded, fiery, and deeply principled characters.

ramya-pandian

Ramya Pandian

Actor

Ramya Pandian is a talented actress who works primarily in Tamil cinema. She gained critical acclaim for her breakthrough performance in the National Award-winning political satire Joker (2016), demonstrating her ability to handle deeply rooted and complex characters with natural ease. Known for her expressive acting and strong screen presence, she has continued to impress audiences with her roles in Aan Devathai and the highly praised Nanpakal Nerathu Mayakkam.

shankar

Shankar Mahadevan

Playback Singer | Composer

Shankar Mahadevan is a towering figure in Indian music—an iconic playback singer and composer whose voice transcends genres and generations. A multi-time National Award winner, he is celebrated for his breathtaking vocal range, classical mastery, and high-energy renditions. Whether performing soul-stirring Carnatic melodies or electrifying contemporary anthems, Shankar brings a unique spiritual and emotional depth to every song he touches, making him the perfect voice for a musical epic.

raj-ayyappa

Raj Ayyappa

Actor

Raj Ayyappa is an emerging and highly promising young actor in Tamil cinema. Making a strong debut in the thriller film 100 with an impressive performance, he further gained wide recognition for his memorable role as "Kutty" alongside Ajith Kumar in the blockbuster Valimai. With a background in visual communication and an undeniable on-screen energy, he represents the new wave of talent bringing fresh intensity to South Indian films.

Thalaivasal Vijay

Thalaivasal Vijay

Actor

Thalaivasal Vijay is a veteran Indian actor and dubbing artist who has acted in over 200 films across Tamil, Malayalam, and Telugu cinema. He made his debut in the 1992 film Thalaivasal, which became his stage name, and has since been highly regarded for his strong, character-driven performances. Known for his natural acting and deep baritone voice, he effortlessly portrays a wide spectrum of roles—from intense antagonists to emotionally grounded supporting characters. His extensive body of work includes acclaimed films like Thevar Magan, Mahanadhi, and Kadhal Kottai, making him a deeply respected pillar of South Indian cinema.

Ensemble Cast

Supporting Cast

Jaya Prakash
Actor
Jaya Prakash
Madhuvanti
Actor
Madhuvanti
Deena
Actor
Dheena
Rithvik
Actor
Ritvik
Preethika
Actor
Preethika
Behind the Camera

The Team

Story
Venkat
Dialogues & Lyrics
Pa. Vijay
Singer
Shankar Mahadevan
DOP
Sanjay BL
Editor
Richard
Audiography
Laxminarayan
Art
Vasu Dhevan
Choreography
Ashok Raja
Swarna
Executive Producers
Kavin KR
Chidambaram
DI Studio
Reelz Boys
VFX
Vangogh Studios
Costumes
Dhatsha Pillai
Stills
Subbu
PRO
Riaz K Ahmed & Paras Riyaz
Designs
Designpoint