Decoding The Star Behind Silambarasan TR Aka STR

As they say, fans maketh a star, but in the case of Silambarasan Thesingu Rajendar – Silambarasan TR (fondly known as STR aka Little Super Star), he faced public scrutiny for years. From throwing tantrums on reality TV shows to delivering explosive remarks to the press, you name it, he has done it all. Often labelled as controversy’s favourite child, one might wonder: is STR just a reigning king of controversies?

Before Silambarasan became the dashing leading man in the Tamil film industry, he tasted success a little early. He started his journey at a tender age in his father T Rajendar’s 1984 film Uravai Kaatha Kili and then played a small role in Samsara Sangeetham and everyone started calling him a Little Super Star. The actor is currently filming for his much-awaited film STR 48 alongside Kamal Haasan and Keerthy Suresh.

Some of the fans laud his dance skills and self-confidence, while others say that he is unquestionably strongly shaped and heavily influenced by his father TR. After gaining accolades as a child artist, the actor made his debut as a leading actor in Kadhal Azhivathillai. Helmed by T Rajendar, the movie marked his grand entrance as a lead actor.

As the Little Super Star blossomed under his father’s cinematic wing, the world watched a prodigy in the making. However, the narrative took a twist in 2004 when the young maestro added a new feather to his cap with his directorial debut, Manmadhan.

But what’s a star without a dash of controversy, right? Besides the glamour and glitz, STR’s personal journey has been a rollercoaster of drama and headlines. It all started with his Beep song which was widely slammed after it was leaked online in December 2015. The song was reportedly sung by actor Simbu and composed by Anirudh. It garnered substantial criticism, leading to a severe backlash against both. Then, the Manmadhan actor faced a storm when a leaked kissing video with his ex-girlfriend Nayanthara made headlines. Instead of succumbing to the scandal, he reportedly confessed to releasing them as he was heartbroken.

It just didn’t stop there, in 2015, Simbu once again found himself unexpectedly embroiled in the controversial Nadigar Sangam elections. Aligning with the incumbent team led by actor Sarathkumar, he unleashed explosive, emotional, and personal remarks against Vishal, who headed the opposing team in the polls, catching many by surprise.

In the ebb and flow of stardom, STR tried to embrace spirituality by seeking solace in Rishikesh and Haridwar. He has rediscovered himself and become a bit more mature.

After a quiet 2016, the actor faced more problems in 2017 with the release of Anbanavan Asaradhavan Adangadhavan. The movie didn’t do well and the actor was accused of being very late and even dubbing from his bathroom. This caused a big issue, with the Tamil Film Producers Council threatening to ban him from acting.

Initially, Silambarasan justified his habit of being late, claiming he doesn’t “believe in following time.” However, eventually, he apologised to the producer and accepted the Tamil Film Producers Council’s decision. This openness and vulnerability endeared him to his fans, emphasising his resilience.

From getting body-shamed after gaining weight for a role to fans trolling him when he said that he would not make any reference to Thala Ajith in his films in the future, Silambarasan weathered years of controversies. Until 2021, when Venkat Prabhu came as a rescuer for his career with Maanaadu. Amidst struggles with alcoholism and trolls, Silambarasan took a hiatus and returned with this sci-fi film like a cinematic phoenix rising from the ashes. The film not only marked his triumphant return but also hinted at the transformative journey.

With each twist and turn, Silambarasan not only rewrote the script but also found a quieter, calmer cadence. During the audio launch of his film Pathu Thala, STR broke down and said. “You have very patiently ridden the tough times with me with so much pain. Let’s put an end to all the sad scenes and skip to the good part.”

Silambarasan TR isn’t just a Little Super Star; he’s the orchestrator of his narrative. What’s next for this showstopper? Only time will tell, but one thing’s for sure – he will turn his films into a celebration.

To the one and only, STR!