Ajith Kumar, who is popularly referred to as “Thala” by his millions of fans, is one of the most respected and successful names in Tamil cinema history. In a career of over 30 years, Ajith has not only been a star but most importantly a man of versatility, a man of humility and a man passionately beyond films.
Early life and background
Hailing from a multi-cultural background, Ajith Kumar was born on May 1, 1971, in Secunderabad, Telangana, to a Tamil Iyengar father P. Subramaniam and a Sindhi mother, Mohini. Early life Ajith was born in Hyderabad, India, to a Tamil father from Palakkad and a Sindhi mother who was born in Kolkata, India. He was raised in Chennai, where he pursued his passion for motor racing, going on to complete a Formula Two racing season in England.
Rise to stardom
Ajith made his film debut as a lead actor in his 9th film in Amaravathi (1993). But his big break in Tamil came through Aasai, released in 1995, a romantic thriller which was produced by Mani Ratnam. His Aasai was a huge hit, and he became an overnight star.
In the years, Ajith demonstrated his dissimilitude acting in films like:
Kadhal Kottai (1996) – An all-time favourite romantic blockbuster.
Vaali (1999) – His critical partner's dual role was lauded.
Villain (2002) and Varalaru (2006) – This helped to cement his acting abilities too.
Billa (2007) -A slicker one that re-introduced him to the masses.
Mankatha (2011) – His daredevil anti-hero avatar became a cult classic.
Vedalam (2015) and Viswasam (2019) – Two commercial blockbusters which paved the way for his box office dominance.
He also acted in Valimai (2022) and Thunivu (2023), both of which were released years after, but these didn't become hits/flops at the box office, carrying his success.
Personal life
Ajith fell in love with actress Shalini during the filming of Amarkalam (1999), and the two married in the year 2000. They are blessed with two children – daughter Anoushka and son Aadvik. Ajith, who is known for being incredibly private about his personal life doesn't make public appearances much and tries to maintain a low profile in the media.
Passions beyond cinema
Ajith Kumar is a man of many interests other than acting:
Car Racing: He turned professional and even participated in tournaments such as Formula 2 and held the honour of representing India at an international level.
Aviation: Ajith is a certified pilot and has worked on aviation and drone projects.
Philanthropy: Ajith prefers to keep his aid for educational and health causes to avoid attention for his generosity.
Fan following and legacy
He is someone who does not indulge in social media and public promotions, yet has one of the craziest and loyal actor fans in India. His fans, who affectionately call him “Thala” (leader), mark his movie releases as if they were a festival, with special events and charitable activities held in his honour.
Ajith has reinvented himself from career lulls and personal crises has only added to his reputation as a fighter and an icon of inspiration in Indian cinema.
Ajith Kumar continues to be a special character in Indian cinema — a star who lets his work, character, and pursuits determine him, instead of a poster face for celebrity. On the tracks, in the air or on the celluloid, Ajith's charisma and quest for perfection never fail to amaze millions.
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