Samuthirakani, born on April 26, 1973, in Rajapalayam, Tamil Nadu, is a prominent Indian actor and film director known for his work primarily in Tamil cinema, along with contributions to Telugu and Malayalam films. He is married to Jayalakshmi and the couple has two children. Standing at approximately 5 feet 8 inches tall, Samuthirakani has made significant strides in the film industry, both in front of and behind the camera. His father, Pandiyaraj, has been a source of inspiration throughout his career. 

Samuthirakani's journey in cinema began as an assistant director under K. Balachander. He gained recognition as a director with his film "Naadodigal" (2009), which was praised for its storytelling and character development. His directorial prowess continued with successful films such as "Poraali" (2011) and "Appa" (2016), both of which have been remade in various languages. As an actor, he has delivered memorable performances in films like "Velaiilla Pattadhari" (2014) and "Visaranai" (2016), earning accolades including the National Film Award for Best Supporting Actor. His versatility extends to various genres, showcasing his ability to resonate with audiences through both comedic and dramatic roles.

In addition to acting and directing, Samuthirakani has also ventured into screenwriting and dubbing. His recent works include notable films such as "Ala Vaikunthapurramuloo" (2020) and the acclaimed "RRR" (2022). With a career spanning over two decades, he remains a vital figure in South Indian cinema, advocating for social issues through his films while entertaining audiences with his diverse roles.