K.R. Vijaya
K.R. Vijaya, born as Deivanayaki, is a celebrated actress known for her extensive work in Tamil, Malayalam, Telugu and Kannada films. With a career spanning almost six decades, she has established herself as a prominent figure in South Indian cinema. Born in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, Vijaya entered the film industry in 1962 and went on to collaborate with numerous stalwarts of the industry, portraying a wide range of key roles.
Early Life
Vijaya was born to Ramachandran Nair and Kalyani as their eldest child. Her father served in the army, while her mother was a homemaker. She grew up with a younger brother, Narayanan, and four younger sisters, namely K.R. Vassal, K.R. Savithri, Sashikala and Radha Vijaya received her primary education at the Government Higher Secondary School in Adayar, Chennai. It was her father’s aspiration for her to become an actress, inspired by his own involvement in M.R.R. Radha’s drama troupe after retiring from the army. In 1962, she made her debut in the film industry with the movie “Karpagam”. Noteably, Vijaya was the first-ever actress to own a private jet, showcasing her success and popularity.Personal Life
In 1966, Vijaya married Sudarshan Velayuthan Nair, a businessman and movie producer who was the CEO of Sudarshan Trading Company. The couple has a daughter named Hemalatha, born in 1967. Velayuthan Nair passed away on March 26 2016, at the age of 82, leaving behind a legacy of support and partnership.Career
Vijaya’s breakthrough came early in her career when she landed the lead role in her debut film, “Karpagam” (1962) film “Karpagam” (1963). Throughout her illustrious career, she has appeared in several notable films, including “Idhaya Kamalam” (1965), “Saraswathi Sabatham” (1966), “Selvam” (1966), “Nenjirukkum Varai” (1967), “Namma Veettu Deivam” (1970), “Dheerga Sumangali” (19740, “Thangappathakkam” (1974), “Thirisoolam,” (1979), and “Ithiri Poove Chuvannapoove” (1984).She earned the endearing title of “Punnagai Arasi” (Queen of Smiles) from her fans at a function held in Tricy, reflecting her captivating and radiant expressions. Vijaya was highly sought after by directors for portraying roles of Hindu goddesses due to her resemblance to conventional depictions. In addition to portraying the role of Goddess Shakti in “Mel Maruvathoor Arpudhangal” (1986), she played the Mariamman avatar in films like “Mahasakthi Mariamman” (1986) and “Kandhan Karunai” (1967). She also showcased her acting skills in the teleserials “Raja Rajeswari” and “Kudumbam,” which were broadcast on television in India and Sri Lanka.
Vijaya made a return of mythological roles in “Sri Rama Rajyam” (2011) and portrayed Kausalya for the first time in Bapu’s mythological extravaganza. Over the course of her career, she has acted in more than 500 films, leaving an indelible mark on the industry.
Awards
Throughout her career, Vijaya has been honoured with several awards and accolades for her outstanding contributions to cinema. Some of the notable awards she has received include:- Satyabama College (2009): Doctorate
- Nandi Awards (1989): Nandi Special Jury Award for ”Sutradharulu”
- 1967: Best Actress for “Iru Malargal”
- 1970: Best Actress for “Namma Veetu Dheivam”
Tamil Nadu State Film Awards:
- 1974: Filmfare Special Award – South for “Dheerga Sumangali”
- 2004: Lifetime Achievement Award
- Kerala State Film Awards (1984): Second best Actress for “Ithiri Poove Chuvannapoove”
- Kerala Film Crtics Association Awards (2013): Chalachitra Ratnam Award
- Janmabhoomi Television Awards (2018): Best Charater Actress for “Sathyam Sivam Sundaram”
Filmfare Awards South:
- 2013: Nagi Reddy Memorial Award
- 2017: Congress Managalir Awards
- 2019: Nakshathira Sathanaiyalar 2019
Other Awards:
K.R. Vijaya’s remarkable talent, versatility, and contribution to the film industry have firmly established her as a legendary actress in South Indian cinema. Her dedication, captivating performances, and enduring popularity have left an indelible mark on the hearts of audiences and her fans.
We, at the Malayalam Film and Television Chamber of Commerce, has great pleasure in having the prodigious actress K.R. Vijaya as the Advisory Board Member.
We, at the Malayalam Film and Television Chamber of Commerce, has great pleasure in having the prodigious actress K.R. Vijaya as the Advisory Board Member.