Manikka Vinayagam Biography 
Manikka Vinayagam is a playback singer of Tamil cinema who made film debut in the early 2000’s. He has also played supporting roles in a few Tamil movies like Bose, Giri, Perazhagan, Kalvanin Kadhali, Thimiru,Thiruda Thirudi and Vettaikkaran. As a film actor, Thiruda Thirudi was his debut movie. He has received honorable titles like Kalaimamani, Isai Selvam and Kala Rathna. Apart from being a vocalist and trained classical singer, he also plays musical instruments - Mrithangam and Harmonium. He regularly participates in many charity programs as a vocalist for the noble cause like earthquake, drought relief programs etc.
His full name is Vazhuvoor Manikka Vinayagam Ramaiya Pillai. Manikka Vinayagam was born on 10 December 1943 in Mayiladuthurai, Tamil Nadu. He is the son of famous dancer, Vazhuvoor Ramaiah Pillai. He learnt Hindustani music from his uncle, C. S. Jayaraman who was a noted actor, music director and a successful playback singer of Tamil cinema during the period, 1940s to 1960’s. He started hear songs and attend music concerts at the age of 7. He was fascinated with nadaswaram at a young age. Manikka made a late entry to film industry in the 2000’s though he has been associated with music since younger days.
He sang the song, "Kannukkulle" for the movie Dhill (2001) at the age of 58. Later he sung many memorable songs like "Theeratha Dum" - Parthiban Kanavu, "Aiyyyayyyo" – Paruthiveeran, "Vidai Kodu" - Kannathil Muthamittal, "Theradi Veethiyil" – Run, "Aruvaa Meesa" – Dhool, "Subbamma Subbamma" - Roja Koottam, "Virugambakkamvettukili" - Pathiladiand many more. Till now he has sung with almost all leading music composers of Tamil Cinema including Rahman and Vidyasagar. In fact his first break as a playback singer was given by Vidyasagar. Director Subramanyam Siva gave him enough encouragement for the portrayal of Dhanush’s father’s character role in his debut movie, Thiruda Thiruda. After that he occasionally appears in supporting roles in Tamil movies.
Published: N/A
Updated: April 09, 2014
