Introduction to S. Ve. Shekher
Ve. Shekher is a multifaceted Indian actor, playwright, politician, and humorist, best known for his work in Tamil cinema and theater. Over the years, Shekher has become a household name, particularly in Tamil Nadu, for his satirical humor and sharp wit. With a career spanning several decades, he has donned many hats—an actor, a writer, a director, and later, a politician. Shekher’s contributions to Tamil theater and his ability to seamlessly blend humor with social commentary have earned him a loyal following. This article delves into his life, early career, his impact on Tamil cinema and theater, and his entry into politics.
Ve. Shekher Personal Details
| Detail | Information |
| Full Name | Sattanathapuram Venkataraman Shekher |
| Date of Birth | December 26, 1950 |
| Age | 73 years (as of 2024) |
| Birthplace | Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, India |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Profession | Actor, Playwright, Politician |
| Years Active | 1974–present |
| Spouse | Uma Maheswari Shekher |
| Children | Aniruddh Shekher, Ashwin Shekher |
| Political Affiliation | Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) |
| Notable Works | Madhu +2, Kaadhula Poo, Natpukkaga |
Ve. Shekher’s Early Life
Ve. Shekher was born on December 26, 1950, in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu. He was raised in a traditional South Indian family, and from a young age, he displayed a passion for the performing arts, especially theater. His father, Venkataraman, was a renowned figure in Tamil Nadu’s business and political circles, which gave Shekher exposure to a wide range of cultural and social experiences growing up.
Shekher completed his education in Chennai (formerly Madras) and was an active participant in school and college drama productions. His sense of humor and flair for acting were evident early on, and he soon became popular for his impeccable comic timing and witty dialogues. These traits would later define his career as both an actor and a playwright.
Ve. Shekher’s Career in Theater
Ve. Shekher’s love for theater led him to join a popular drama troupe in the early 1970s, where he quickly gained recognition for his writing and acting skills. His plays were characterized by their satirical take on society, filled with humor and insightful social commentary. He became well-known for his clever dialogue delivery and ability to address serious social issues with a light-hearted approach.
Some of his most famous plays include Madhu +2, Kaadhula Poo, and Natpukkaga, which were not only entertaining but also thought-provoking. Shekher’s scripts often highlighted the quirks and follies of middle-class life, politics, and the day-to-day struggles of the common man. His plays struck a chord with audiences, making him a prominent figure in Tamil theater.
In addition to acting in his plays, Shekher also directed several of them. His ability to create relatable characters and deliver punchy dialogues made his productions extremely popular. Over time, Shekher’s reputation as a playwright grew, and he became one of the most sought-after names in Tamil theater.
Ve. Shekher’s Career in Cinema
Shekher’s success in theater paved the way for his entry into Tamil cinema. His debut film Manal Kayiru (1982), in which he both acted and wrote the script, became an instant hit. The film’s humor, combined with Shekher’s distinctive style of witty dialogue, made it a classic in Tamil cinema. The movie was later remade in several languages, further cementing his place in the film industry.
Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Shekher acted in numerous Tamil films, often in comedic roles. His films, such as Vasanthakala Paravai, Kadamai Kanniyam Kattupaadu, and Purushantha Veekkam, were well-received by audiences and critics alike. Shekher’s roles in these films were largely centered around middle-class characters navigating the absurdities of life, a theme that resonated with Tamil audiences.
In addition to acting, Shekher’s writing and direction contributed to several successful films. His knack for blending humor with poignant social themes made him a unique figure in Tamil cinema, and he became known for his clean, family-friendly comedies that were free of vulgarity, a rarity in the film industry at the time.
Ve. Shekher’s Political Career
Ve. Shekher’s popularity as an actor and playwright naturally led him to explore a career in politics. In the early 2000s, he joined the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK), one of Tamil Nadu’s major political parties. His ability to communicate effectively, combined with his popularity among the masses, made him a valuable asset to the party.
In 2006, Shekher was elected as a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) from Mylapore, Chennai. As a politician, he continued to focus on the issues affecting the common man, advocating for better governance and transparency. His tenure in politics, however, was not without its challenges, and he eventually parted ways with the AIADMK.
Shekher later joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and has remained active in Tamil Nadu politics. His transition from entertainment to politics was not uncommon in Tamil Nadu, where several actors have made successful political careers, including M. G. Ramachandran and Jayalalithaa. Shekher’s move into politics allowed him to extend his influence beyond the entertainment industry, although his legacy as an entertainer remains stronger.
Legacy and Influence
Ve. Shekher has left an indelible mark on Tamil theater and cinema. His plays and films, characterized by their clever humor and social commentary, have entertained and enlightened audiences for decades. His contribution to Tamil theater, in particular, has been significant, with his plays continuing to be performed across Tamil Nadu.
As an actor, Shekher’s clean, family-oriented comedies have earned him a loyal fan base, and his ability to deliver laughs without resorting to crass humor has been appreciated by audiences of all ages. Even though his political career has had its ups and downs, Shekher remains an influential figure in Tamil Nadu, both in the entertainment and political spheres.
Conclusion
Ve. Shekher’s journey from a young theater enthusiast to a celebrated actor, playwright, and politician is truly inspiring. His ability to entertain while delivering meaningful messages has made him a beloved figure in Tamil Nadu. His contributions to both the arts and public service continue to be recognized and appreciated by generations of fans. With a legacy spanning theater, cinema, and politics, Shekher remains an influential and respected figure in Tamil Nadu.
