J. Mahendran

Biography

J. Alexander, known professionally as Mahendran, was an Indian film director, screenwriter and actor, known for his work in the Tamil film industry. Mahendran is regarded as one of the greatest filmmakers of Tamil cinema and has influenced numerous filmmakers, writers and actors after him. After entering the film industry as a screenwriter, writing scripts for nearly 26 films, including the widely influential Thangappathakkam (1974), he made an immediate impact with his first directional venture Mullum Malarum (1978), starring Rajinikanth. Uthiripookkal (1979), Mahendran's next film, was based on a short story written by Pudumaipithan, and firmly established him as an important filmmaker in Tamil cinema. His subsequent works, such as Johnny (1980) and Nenjathai Killathe (1980), were acclaimed, with the latter winning three National Film Awards including the award for the Best Regional Film.

Movies & TV Shows

1. Theri (2016) — Minister Vanamamalai
2. Petta (2019) — Rajapandi
3. Seethakathi (2018) — Judge
4. Katamarayudu (2017) — Yelasari Bhanu's Father
5. Nimir (2018) — National Shanmugam
6. Boomerang (2019) — Self
7. Mr. Chandramouli (2018) — Azhagar
8. Kamaraj (2004) — K. Rajaram
9. Rustum (2019) — Durga Prasad
10. Pon Manickavel (2021)
11. Ninaithathu Yaaro (2014) — Self
12. Kombu Vatcha Singamda (2022) — Deivendran

Directed

1. Johnny (1980) — Director
2. Mullum Malarum (1978) — Director
3. Kai Kodukkum Kai (1984) — Director
4. Uthiripookkal (1979) — Director
5. Metti (1982) — Director
6. Poottaatha Poottukkal (1980) — Director
7. Nandu (1981) — Director
8. Kannukku Mai Ezhuthu (1986) — Director
9. Oor Panchayathu (1992) — Director
10. Azhagiya Kanne (1982) — Director
11. Nenjathai Killathe (1980) — Director
12. Sasanam (2006) — Director