‘Dad is my ultimate Hero'

Arun Vijay on Vijayakumar
They say, any man can be a father, but it takes a special person to be a dad! I agree with that. Appa has always cared for our small pleasures. He has played his part silently without expecting anything in return. His faith in me, even in times of failure, has motivated me to work harder. He believes that I have to do whatever it is that I believe in  whether it is right or wrong. As any other dad, he gave me all kinds of freedom and has stood by me like a rock through thick and thin.

He has allowed me to make my own mistakes, so that I learnt stuff on my own. But he was always there for us. On a professional level, he’s my inspiration. It’s really challenging to step out of his shadow and be the man I am today. And the one quality I deeply admire about him is his integrity, be it in personal or professional life. Cinema is a constant topic of interest for us. My father has always given me tips, advice and suggestions that have helped me in my work in the industry. He is my ultimate hero.

Sibiraj on Sathyaraj

I’ve always known that he is an exceptionally talented man — not just in terms of his profession. Appa has never been strict with me or my sister. We could discuss anything under the sun with him. For me, he’s the biggest inspiration and strongest point of motivation. I have learnt punctuality and professional ethics from him. He’s not only a good father, but also a cool granddad.

Jayam Ravi on Mohan
My father is my role model and guru too. In fact, he’s means the whole world to me. Our bond is very special! With over 50 years of experience as an editor and producer, he knows best and I trust his instinct. It has not failed so far! He knows what’s best for me. If I need some advice he’s the first person I go to. He’s like the guiding voice in the back of my head. He’s always been a very indulgent father. Given a choice, I would ask God to give me the same father in my next birth as well!

Karthi on Sivakumar

Every time someone meets me, the first thing they ask me is  how’s your father doing? He is adored by one and all. My father is a very disciplined person and has always stood by me. He has passed on his values to me as well. And it is because of what I learnt from him that I am what I am today. If I get to achieve half of what he has, that would be a big thing for me. I am proud of my father, his work and that I am his son.

Premgi on Gangai Amaren

As a child, I remember how I looked up to him with admiration. I’m thankful that I have a friend in my father. No matter what, he has always stood by me. He has given me my own space and trusted me to do the right thing, especially when it comes to my films. His sense of humour comes to the fore and he is great fun. He has done us all proud with his dedication and hard work.

Shanthnu on Bhagyaraj

My dad is someone I would always look up to. He has established a name for himself in the industry after having strived quite hard. Also whenever I am stressed or upset about something, he pats on my back and tells me ‘if you’re afraid of failure, then you don’t deserve to be successful’. Our relationship has changed over the years. We have become more understanding over the years.