Nagesh, originally Cheyur Krishnarao Nageshwaran, born on September 27, 1933, in Dharapuram, Tamil Nadu, India, remains an unforgettable icon in Indian cinema, renowned for his exceptional comedic prowess and versatile acting. His illustrious career spanned over five decades, during which he made an indelible mark through his distinctive roles in Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Hindi, and Kannada films.

Source: News18

Early Life and Entry into Cinema

Born to Kannadiga Hindu parents, Krishnan Rao and Rukmani Ammal, Nagesh’s early life was rooted in Dharapuram. His journey into cinema began serendipitously when he moved to Madras (now Chennai) in pursuit of a career, initially working as a clerk in the Indian Railways. His interest in acting blossomed after watching a Tamil play, where he convinced the Railway Cultural Association to give him a role, impressing none other than MGR (M.G. Ramachandran), who lauded his performance.

Rise to Prominence

Nagesh’s breakthrough came in the early 1960s, notably with his role in “Nenjil Or Aalayam” (1962), which garnered critical acclaim and marked a turning point in his career. However, it was the film “Server Sundaram” (1964) that catapulted him to stardom. Directed by Krishnan-Panju and based on K. Balachander’s play, the movie showcased Nagesh as “Server” Sundaram, a waiter aspiring to become an actor, highlighting his impeccable comic timing and expressive body language.

The King of Comedy

Known as the “Jerry Lewis of India,” Nagesh earned accolades for his ability to blend humor with pathos, drawing inspiration from Hollywood’s Jerry Lewis. His nuanced performances in films such as “Thillana Mohanambal” (1967), where he portrayed the detestable yet comical character of Vaidhy, further solidified his reputation as Tamil cinema’s “King of Comedy.” His partnership with actress Manorama in numerous films added to his comedic brilliance, creating unforgettable on-screen chemistry.

Philanthropy and Personal Life

Despite his on-screen persona, Nagesh was known for his simplicity and humility off-screen. He received several accolades during his career, including the Kalaimamani Award in 1974 and the National Film Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in “Nammavar” (1994). His contributions to cinema were further recognized with the Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award – South in 1995.

Tamil films

Telugu films

Malayalam films

Hindi films

Kannada films

Director

Versatility and Impact

Nagesh’s career spanned a wide spectrum of roles, from lead characters to supporting roles and even antagonists. He effortlessly transitioned between genres and styles, appearing in over 1,000 films across different languages. His versatility was evident in his portrayal of Mohan in “Major Chandrakanth” (1966), where his performance contributed significantly to the film’s success and earned him widespread acclaim.

Collaboration and Legacy

Throughout his career, Nagesh collaborated with legendary actors spanning generations. He starred alongside icons like MGR and Sivaji Ganesan in the 1960s, Kamal Haasan and Rajnikanth in the 1980s, and Vijay and Ajith in later years, showcasing his enduring appeal and adaptability across different cinematic eras.

Enduring Legacy and Demise

Nagesh’s legacy transcends his cinematic achievements. He was deeply cherished for his profound impact on Tamil cinema. His ability to evoke laughter and emotion with equal finesse endeared him to audiences across generations. Sadly, Nagesh passed away on January 31, 2009, at the age of 75, due to complications arising from diabetes and heart ailments, leaving behind a rich cinematic legacy that continues to inspire and entertain.

Later Years and Recognition

In the latter part of his career, Nagesh continued to impress audiences with his memorable roles in films such as “Michael Madana Kama Rajan” (1990), where he played the role of Avinashi, a character that displayed his versatility beyond comedy. His performances in films like “Panchathanthiram” (2002), “Vasool Raja MBBS” (2004), and his final appearance in “Dasavathaaram” (2008) reaffirmed his status as a timeless actor capable of captivating audiences till his last days.

Nagesh’s contribution to Indian cinema, particularly Tamil cinema, is unparalleled. His mastery of comedy, coupled with his versatility as an actor, ensured that he remained a cherished figure throughout his career. Nagesh’s ability to infuse humor with humanity and depth in his performances set him apart as a true artist. His films continue to strike a chord with audiences, showcasing his lasting influence on Indian popular culture. Nagesh’s legacy lives on in the hearts of fans and admirers, perpetuating his status as one of the greatest comedic talents in the history of Indian cinema.