Bigg Boss Tamil Season 2 Contestant Ponnambalam Biography
Stuntman Turned Villainous Actor
Ponnambalam: The Stuntman Turned Villainous Actor
Ponnambalam, born on November 11, 1963, is a prominent Indian actor and stuntman known for his impactful roles in Tamil-language films. His career journey from a stuntman to a villainous actor, and later a director and producer, is a testament to his versatility and dedication to the industry. Let’s delve into the life and career of this multifaceted personality.
Early Life and Stunt Career:
Ponnambalam started his cinematic journey as a stuntman, showcasing his skills in various Tamil films. His proficiency in stunts earned him the nickname “Spare Parts” Ponnambalam, reflecting his ability to perform without any injuries. He appeared in minor roles and as an extra fighter in films like “Apoorva Sagodharargal” (1989) and “Michael Madana Kama Rajan” (1990), gradually making a mark with his action sequences.
Breakthrough as an Actor:
The turning point in Ponnambalam’s career came with P. Vasu’s “Walter Vetrivel” (1993), where he gained recognition for his portrayal. This opened doors for him to play antagonistic roles in several notable Tamil films during the 1990s. Some of his standout performances include roles in “Nattamai” (1994), “Muthu” (1995), and “Amarkalam” (1999), where he left a lasting impression with his villainous characters.
Venturing into Lead Roles and Direction:
Ponnambalam expanded his horizons by taking on lead roles in films like “Muthal Echarikkai” (1999) and “Ammaiyappa” (2002). While he received praise for his acting, critics noted his unconventional appearance for a typical leading man. Undeterred, Ponnambalam ventured into directing and producing with films like “Pattaya Kelappu,” starring Sriman in the lead role. Despite facing delays and challenges, his determination to explore various aspects of filmmaking was evident.
Filmography:
Tamil Films
- Nattamai (1994) as Ponnambalam
- Muthu (1995) as Kaali
- Amarkalam (1999) as Aasairaj
- Thamizh Padam (2010) as Nattamai
- Ponnar Shankar (2011) as Thalapathi
- Comali (2019) as Gaaja
- Kaatteri (2022) as Ponnambalam
Telugu Films
- 1992
- Gharana Mogudu as Veeraiyah
- 1993
- Repati Rowdy as Kallaiah
- Allari Priyudu
- Mechanic Alludu
- 1994
- Mugguru Monagallu
- 1997
- Hitler as Rudraraju’s brother (Dubbed in Tamil as Tiger)
- 1998
- Pavitra Prema as M.L.A. Rayudu
- 2000
- Balaram as Harishchandra Prasad’s goon
- Nuvvu Vastavani
- Choosoddaam Randi as Tiger Dharma
- 2001
- Eduruleni Manishi
- 2002
- Chennakesava Reddy
- 2003
- Palnati Brahmanayudu
- 2004
- Guri as Seed supplier
- Pedababu as Rudra Raju
- Siva Shankar
- Gudumba Shankar
- Koduku
- Suryam
- 2005
- Annavaram
- 2006
- Veerabhadra
- Neeku Naaku
- 2007
- Andaala Amitabh Bachchan
- 2008
- Bujjigadu
Kannada Films
- 1994
- Chinna
- 1995
- Dore
- 1997
- Lady Commissioner
- 2000
- O Nanna Nalle
- 2003
- Kiccha as Jayaraj
- Annavru as Henchman
- 2005
- Gunna
- 2007
- Masti
- Police Story 2
Malayalam Films
- 1988
- Moonnam Mura as Peter
- Orkkapurathu
- 1994
- Kambolam as Koppara
- 2000
- The Warrant
- 2006
- Prajapathi as Vanangamudi
- 2007
- Payum Puli as Pandian
- 2017
- Aadu 2 as Mayilvahanam
Hindi Films
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- 1996
- Ghatak: Lethal as Fighter in the Ring (Special Appearance)
- Rakshak as Daniyaal
- 2000
- Krodh
- 2001
- Nayak as Rungaa (Voiced by Manoj Pandey)
- 1996
Stuntman
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- 1987
- Shankar Guru
- Per Sollum Pillai
- Vairakkiyam
- 1988
- Sathya
- En Thangai Kalyani
- Puthiya Vaanam
- Soora Samhaaram
- Thaimel Aanai
- Poovizhi Raja
- Pattikaatu Thambi
- Dhayam Onnu
- Katha Nayagan
- Kaliyugam
- 1989
- Apoorva Sagodharargal
- Padicha Pulla
- Annanukku Jai
- Vettaiyaadu Vilaiyaadu
- En Thangai
- Vetri Mel Vetri
- 1990
- Avasara Police 100
- Sathriyan
- Urudhi Mozhi
- Raja Kaiya Vacha
- My Dear Marthandan
- 1991
- Captain Prabhakaran
- Maanagara Kaaval
- Moondrezhuthil En Moochirukkum
- 1987
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Television
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- 2018: Bigg Boss Tamil 2
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Controversial Stint in Bigg Boss:
In 2018, Ponnambalam entered the second season of the reality show “Bigg Boss Tamil,” hosted by Kamal Haasan. His time in the house was marked by controversy, as he faced accusations of making misogynistic comments against female housemates. Despite the challenges, Ponnambalam’s presence in the show brought attention to his persona beyond the silver screen.
Political Involvement:
Outside the realm of cinema, Ponnambalam ventured into politics by joining the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) in 2011. He campaigned for the party in the 2014 Indian general election. In 2017, he switched to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), citing concerns for the welfare of the people as his motivation.
Personal Life and Legacy:
Ponnambalam’s dedication to cinema and his multifaceted career path have left a lasting legacy in the Tamil film industry. His journey from a stuntman to an actor, director, and political figure showcases his versatility and passion for his craft. Beyond the controversies and challenges, Ponnambalam’s impact on Tamil cinema is undeniable.
Name: Ponnambalam
Other Name: Ponnambalam
Evicted: Bigg Boss Tamil Season 2 – Ejected on Day 70
Season Host: Kamal Haasan
Network: Star Vijay
Number of Days: 105
Number of Contestants: 17
Premier Date: 17 June 2018
Prize Money:
Other Prizes (if any):
Date of Birth (DOB): November 11, 1963
Birth Place: Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
Settled Place: Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
Profession/Occupation: Actor, Politician, Stuntman
Education:
Parents:
Siblings: He has 6 Sister
Spouse: Devi Ponnambalam
Children: Kartik GPK (Son), Krithika (Daughter)