Chennai: In the Thoothukudi constituency, actor Srinath has secured the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam’s maiden victory by defeating DMK Minister Geetha Jeevan. Srinath has acted in films ranging from Vijay’s debut movie, Naalaiya Theerpu, to his final film, Jana Nayagan.

A Close Friend Since College Days

Srinath is a long-time, close confidant of actor Vijay; indeed, he was Vijay’s college classmate. Actor Sanjeev, Srinath, and others all studied together with Vijay at the same college. Srinath began his cinematic journey at the very same time Vijay launched his own career in the film industry.

The film Naalaiya Theerpu—which marked Vijay’s debut as a lead actor—was released in 1992. It was in this very film that Srinath began his own acting career by playing the role of Vijay’s friend. He has been a constant companion to Vijay throughout his cinematic journey, right from his debut film. He holds a pivotal position within Vijay’s inner circle of close friends and has co-starred with Vijay in several films, such as Vettaikaran.

Beyond Acting: A Film Director Too

Srinath cannot be pigeonholed merely as a comedian; he has also successfully established himself as a film director. Notably, it was Srinath who directed the super-hit comedy film Vallavanukku Pullum Aayudham, starring actor Santhanam.

He appeared in Vijay’s film Maanbumigu Maanavan. Additionally, he has acted in numerous other films, including 12B (starring Shaam), Hey! Nee Romba Azhaga Irukke, Kaadhal Virus, Ullam Ketkume, Unnale Unnale, Bheemaa, and Dhaam Dhoom.

The Electoral Battle

As a close associate within Vijay’s circle, Srinath is said to have worked tirelessly behind the scenes to support and assist Vijay. When Vijay faced a dilemma regarding whom to field as a candidate for the Thoothukudi constituency, he ultimately decided to field his trusted friend, Sreenath.

Initially, Ajitha had waited in the hope that Vijay would offer her the opportunity to contest from a constituency within the district. However, Vijay did not announce her name in the list of candidates. Consequently, she joined the DMK, citing Vijay’s failure to accord due importance to women as her reason.

As a result, it was widely speculated that her support base would shift its votes to the DMK, thereby diminishing Srinath’s chances of victory. Yet, proving all predictions wrong, Sreenath emerged victorious—defeating the incumbent DMK Minister Geetha Jeevan—and secured a resounding win with a margin of 30,000 votes.