Suriya Turns 49: Kanguva Actor's Top Films, Upcoming Projects, and Why Did he Change his Name?

Tamil superstar Suriya needs no special introduction. After making his debut in Nerukku Ner (1997), Suriya landed his first lead role in Nandha (2001) and achieved major commercial success with the thriller Kaakha Kaakha (2003). He rose to stardom by playing dual roles in Gautham Vasudev Menon’s film Vaaranam Aayiram (2008). On the occasion of his 49th birthday, let’s take a look at some of his top movies and upcoming projects.

Why Did Tamil Superstar Change His Name?

His stage name, Suriya, was given by the renowned filmmaker Mani Ratnam. Since an established actor named Saravanan already existed, Mani Ratnam suggested the name change to avoid confusion. Suriya adopted this new name in 1997, the year he made his debut in the film Nerukku Ner.

Suriya’s Top Movies

1. Kaakha Kaakha (2003)In this action-crime drama film, Suriya plays the role of ACP Anbuchelvan, a tough cop who battles a drug-dealing gangster. The film also features Jyotika as Maya in the film.
2. Vaaranam Aayiram (2008)The musical-drama film showcases a beautiful bond between a father and his son. In the film, Suriya plays the dual role of both father and son. It also stars Simran, Ramya, and Sameera Reddy in pivotal roles.
3. Ghajini (2005)Directed by A.R.Murugadoss, the film stars Suriya as Sanjay a man who suffers from short-term memory loss. His character seeks revenge for his lover’s death. The film also features Asin Thottumkal and Nayanthara in lead roles. The Hindi remake of the film, starring Aamir Khan was a hit as well.
4. Jai Bhim (2021)Suriya plays the role of lawyer Chandru who fights for the rights of a tribal man. The film’s storyline and Suriya’s stunning performance earned critical acclaim. Directed by T.J. Gnanavel, the film also features Lijo Mol Jose, Manikandan K., and Rajisha Vijayan in pivotal roles.
5. Soorarai Poottru (2020)The movie draws inspiration from the life of the founder of Deccan Airways. Suriya stars alongside talented actors Paresh Rawal and Aparna Balamurali. The Hindi remake of the film, titled Sarfira and starring Akshay Kumar, was released on July 12, 2024.

Suriya’s Upcoming Movies

1. Suriya 44Directed and written by Karthik Subbaraj, the film features a star-studded cast including Suriya, Pooja Hegde, Joju George, Jayaram, Prem Kumar, and more. The teaser was released today on X (formerly known as Twitter). The official release date of the film is yet to be announced.
2. KanguvaDirected by Siva, this story spans 500 years from the 1700s to 2023. It tells the story of a hero who must fulfill an unfinished mission. The film stars Suriya as Kanga and features Disha Patani and Bobby Deol in pivotal roles. It is scheduled to hit theaters in October 2024.
3. Irumbu Kai MaayaviThe film is a superhero story where the protagonist loses one of his hands in an accident and then fights crime with a metal hand. Suriya Sivakumar stars in the lead role, with Vijay Deverakonda, Lokesh Kanagaraj, Ajith Kumar, and Atlee making cameo appearances. The film is scheduled to be released this year.
4. Suriya 43Apart from Suriya, Director Sudha Kongara’s film also features Dulquer Salmaan, Nazriya Nazim, R. Madhavan, and Vijay Varma in pivotal roles. The music is composed by GV Prakash. The film revolves around a gangster from Madurai seeking revenge against those who wronged him.
5. VaadivaasalThe action-drama film directed by Vetrimaaran features Suriya alongside Andrea Jeremiah and Ameer Sultan. It revolves around Picchi (played by Suriya) and Marudan, who participate in the annual bull-taming contest at the Chellaiyi festival in Periyapatti, aiming to subdue a fierce Kaari bull that had previously defeated Picchi’s father.