Silambarasan Thesingu Rajendar, popularly known as Simbu or STR, is a well-known figure in the Indian film industry. He is not just an actor but a multifaceted artist known for his work as a playback singer, songwriter, director, and lyricist. Born into a film family, Silambarasan has established himself as a dynamic presence in the Tamil cinema industry. With an expansive career marked by both critical acclaim and commercial success, Simbu continues to evolve as an artist, maintaining a strong fan following across South India and beyond.
Personal Details
| Detail | Information |
| Full Name | Silambarasan Thesingu Rajendar |
| Stage Name | STR, Simbu |
| Date of Birth | February 3, 1983 |
| Age | 41 years (as of 2024) |
| Birthplace | Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Profession | Actor, Singer, Director, Lyricist |
| Years Active | 1984–present |
| Parents | T. Rajendar (father), Usha Rajendar (mother) |
| Siblings | Kuralarasan, Ilakkiya |
| Marital Status | Unmarried |
| Height | 5 feet 9 inches (175 cm) |
Early Life and Family Background
Silambarasan was born into a family deeply entrenched in the Tamil film industry. His father, T. Rajendar, is a well-known filmmaker, actor, and politician, while his mother, Usha Rajendar, was also involved in the entertainment world. Growing up in Chennai, Simbu was introduced to the film industry at a very young age. His acting debut came as a child artist in his father’s films, and his talent was evident from the beginning.
Simbu’s passion for cinema and performing arts was cultivated in an environment that was highly creative. His early exposure to filmmaking, songwriting, and acting had a profound impact on his growth as a well-rounded artist. Simbu was also trained in classical music and dance, which further added to his versatility in the entertainment industry.
Film Debut and Early Career
Silambarasan made his acting debut as a leading actor with the film “Kadhal Azhivathillai” in 2002, directed by his father, T. Rajendar. Though the film received mixed reviews, Simbu’s performance was noted, and he soon began to carve out his own niche in Tamil cinema. Over the years, his acting style has evolved significantly, and he has established himself as a top-tier performer.
His early career was marked by films like “Dum” (2003) and “Kovil” (2004), which showcased his talent as a versatile actor. His breakout role, however, came with the 2004 film “Manmadhan”, a psychological thriller that was also written by him. The film was a major success, both critically and commercially, and solidified his status as a serious actor capable of taking on complex roles.
Rising Fame and Career Milestones
After the success of “Manmadhan”, Simbu starred in several commercially successful films. His 2006 film “Vallavan”, which he directed, wrote, and acted in, further proved his creative capabilities. The film was a major hit, and his performance, particularly in terms of emotional depth, received widespread praise.
The years 2010 and beyond marked a significant turning point in his career, especially with films like “Vinnaithaandi Varuvaayaa” (2010), directed by Gautham Vasudev Menon. The romantic drama not only gave Simbu one of his most iconic roles but also earned him several awards and accolades. His portrayal of a man hopelessly in love resonated with audiences, and his naturalistic acting style won him widespread acclaim.
Other notable films in Simbu’s career include “Vaanam” (2011), “Podaa Podi” (2012), “Idhu Namma Aalu” (2016), and “Achcham Yenbadhu Madamaiyada” (2016). Each of these films highlighted different aspects of his acting abilities, from action-packed sequences to intense emotional moments.
Music and Singing Career
Apart from his acting skills, Simbu is also a talented playback singer and lyricist. Over the years, he has lent his voice to several hit songs in Tamil cinema. His musical talent was evident from a young age, and he has often contributed to the soundtracks of his own films.
Some of his notable songs include “Evan Di Unna Pethan” from “Vaanam” and “Loosu Penne” from “Vallavan”. His distinctive voice and energetic style have made him one of the most sought-after playback singers in the Tamil industry. Simbu has also worked on multiple independent music projects and has expressed interest in pursuing music alongside his acting career.
Challenges and Comebacks
Simbu’s career, like that of many film stars, has seen its share of ups and downs. He has been involved in several controversies, both personal and professional, which at times have affected his career. Despite these challenges, Simbu has managed to maintain his position as one of Tamil cinema’s leading actors.
One of the most notable instances was his legal battle over the film “Vaalu” (2015), which faced multiple delays before its eventual release. Similarly, his project “AAA” (Anbanavan Asaradhavan Adangadhavan) also faced production issues, leading to an incomplete release. However, Simbu’s resilience and commitment to his craft have allowed him to bounce back from these setbacks.
In 2021, Silambarasan underwent a major physical transformation, shedding weight and returning to the limelight with the film “Eeswaran”. His fitness journey became an inspiration for many of his fans, proving once again that Simbu is dedicated to self-improvement both personally and professionally.
Recent Work and Future Projects
Simbu’s recent films have further solidified his star power. His 2021 film “Maanaadu”, a political time-loop thriller, became a huge success, both critically and at the box office. Directed by Venkat Prabhu, the film showcased Simbu’s growth as an actor and earned him widespread praise for his nuanced performance.
He is also involved in several upcoming projects, including “Pathu Thala”, where he plays a gangster, and “Vendhu Thanindhathu Kaadu”, another collaboration with Gautham Vasudev Menon. These films are eagerly awaited by his fans and critics alike, as Simbu continues to push boundaries and evolve as an actor.
Legacy and Influence
As an actor, Simbu has made a significant mark in the Tamil film industry, and his contributions as a director, singer, and lyricist make him a multi-talented artist. His ability to seamlessly transition between different roles, both on and off-screen, has earned him a loyal fan base and widespread respect within the industry.
