Veteran Actor Vagai Chandrasekhar Conferred with the Prestigious “Yuva Puraskar” National Award by the Central Government!

June 16, 2026 Published by Natarajan Karuppiah

Vagai Chandrasekhar, a veteran and renowned character actor in the Tamil film industry, has been announced as the recipient of the prestigious “Yuva Puraskar” National Award, presented by the Sangeet Natak Akademi of the Central Government. This high honor is being bestowed upon him in recognition of his overall contribution to theatre and the arts.

Born on May 3, 1956, in the village of Vagaikulam in the Thoothukudi district, Chandrasekhar showed a deep passion for stage plays and cultural events from a very young age. The name ‘Vagai’ became permanently associated with him as a symbol of his realistic acting success, referencing the ancient Tamil tradition of crowning victorious warriors with wreaths made of Vagai (Siris) flowers.

Making his debut in Tamil cinema in the 1980s, his realistic and unique acting skills allowed him to leave a lasting mark in over 300 films, portraying diverse roles ranging from character characters to antagonists.

Kalaimamani Award: In appreciation of his outstanding service to the arts, the Government of Tamil Nadu honored him with the ‘Kalaimamani’ award in 1991.

National Film Award: He has also won the National Film Award for Best Supporting Actor for his stellar performance in the movie Nanba Nanba.

Not limiting himself to the world of arts, Vagai Chandrasekhar also made a significant mark in active politics. He served efficiently as a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) for the Velachery constituency representing the DMK party. Currently, he serves as the Chairman of the Tamil Nadu Iyal Isai Nataka Manram (Tamil Nadu State Academy of Literature, Music and Drama).

Operated under the Ministry of Culture of the Central Government, the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award is the highest national recognition conferred for the performing arts in India.

These awards are primarily presented under 5 categories:

Music

Dance

Drama / Theatre

Traditional / Folk & Tribal Arts

Puppetry and Allied Arts / Research

Following the announcement of this National Award honoring Vagai Chandrasekhar’s lifelong contribution to the art of theatre, film personalities and political leaders have been extending their heartfelt congratulations.