“Being Sivakumar’s Son Is My Identity for Life, My Greatest Honour” – Suriya Gets Emotional
December 1, 2025 Published by anbuselvid8bbe9c60f
Actor Suriya has penned a heart-touching note after his father, veteran actor Sivakumar, was conferred an Honorary Doctorate (Honoris Causa) for Lifetime Achievement by the Tamil Nadu Dr. J. Jayalalithaa Music and Fine Arts University.
The prestigious award was presented by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin at the university’s convocation ceremony held in Chennai. Legendary painter Gurucharan Chandrasekaran (popularly known as artist Chandru) was also honoured with the same doctorate at the same event.
In an emotional statement released on Sunday, Suriya wrote:
“My father started his journey as a painter. Just the way a single line drawn in school slowly and delicately turns into a beautiful painting, he shaped his life with the same discipline and perfection. Coming from a small village, he turned the spotlight of the art world towards him and became an inspiration to everyone. Conferring an honorary doctorate on him is the most fitting recognition.
I have been witnessing my father’s astonishing heights since my childhood, and even today I continue to learn only three things from him – determination, hard work, and discipline. More than his achievements, it is his life values that have sculpted my thoughts and my life.
Being ‘Sivakumar’s son’ is forever my identity and the greatest honour of my lifetime. We see this doctorate as recognition of his 60-year journey that has immensely benefited Tamil society.
At this proud moment, the same honour bestowed upon painter Chandru (Gurucharan Chandrasekaran) gives us additional joy.
On behalf of our family and everyone, I extend heartfelt thanks to the Tamil Nadu Music and Fine Arts University and to Chief Minister Thiru. M.K. Stalin for personally presenting this magnificent honour.”
Earlier, actor Karthi had also released a gratitude note when the award was announced.
With three generations of the family – Sivakumar, Suriya, and Karthi – continuing to win the love of Tamil cinema audiences, this honorary doctorate has added yet another golden feather to their illustrious legacy.
