After having successfully survived 35 years on Planet Earth and 8 years in the film industry (both incredibly tough tasks), Sivakarthikeyan has gradually taken on many different roles. Needless to say, with each new avatar, he's been keeping us fans both inspired and delighted. So on his birthday today, let's pause and appreciate the incredible BTS hard work that has given rise to so many amazing facets.

Hero - To be recognised as a Hero in the Tamil film industry is never easy. With so many already established stars and several upcoming actors, getting noticed has become very difficult. In addition to this, biases and preconceptions about who is allowed to do what in the industry continue to plague several actors. Despite all this and even after starting his TV career as a comedian, Sivakarthikeyan has expanded his image and shown us that nothing is beyond him. Be it ‘Velaikkaran’, ‘Kanaa’, ‘Namma Veettu Pillai’ or ‘Hero’, he's proven why he is and deserves to be a hero. Being a reel hero is one thing; Sivakarthikeyan is also a hero in real life for his fans. Being a leader is not just about winning; it's also about handling failures and learning from them. The way SK surpasses the obstacles and pitfalls that come his way is truly inspiring.

Producer - If it's difficult to become an actor, it's even more difficult to invest crores of money to create a film. First you need to earn it. Then you need to have the courage and heart to be willing to part with the money. But what is more impressive is that Sivakarthikeyan took up this new role to give a platform for his friends to display their talents to the world. And ‘Kanaa’ was just that for Arunraja Kamaraj. The countless number of awards for Best Director, Best Actress, Best Film and Best Producer make the film speak for itself. We hope to see SK produce many more such worthy films that deserve to touch the screen.

Philanthropist - Whether it is medical expenses for the needy, funding education, creating awareness about sexual abuse, encouraging women's cricket or sponsoring a white tiger, SK has done it all. His vow not to act in advertisements after ‘Velaikkaran’, and efforts to eliminate smoking and drinking scenes in films, just go to show how big his heart is.

Lyricist - Debuting with ‘Kalyana Vayasu’, Sivakarthikeyan has now started filling pages with lyrics. With a comic twist to his catchy words, his songs have rightly been a hit amongst youngsters. Podu Gumuroo Tappara…

Singer - He started his singing career with a disclaimer to heart patients and pregnant women. Today he lends his voice for every alternate movie of his and is being called to sing songs for the movies of other actors. His song ‘Vaayadi Petha Pulla’ in which he shared the mic with his daughter, was viewed and loved by millions. And if you've not heard his ‘Enga Vena Kochikinu Po’ from the movie ‘Sixer’, then it's probably time you gave it a listen.

Mimicry Artist - Whatever heights Sivakarthikeyan reaches, neither he nor his fans have forgotten his roots. From imitating the voices of Superstar, Thala and Thalapathy, he's now at a point where other aspiring artists mimic his voice. It has to be said that his special talent of mimicry truly sets him apart from all other heroes in the industry.

Comedian - Last but not the least, humour runs in the blood of SK. From his time in Vijay TV to his comic timing, one liners and expressions in his films, Sivakarthikeyan has made us laugh, laugh and laugh more. Be it ‘Varuthapadatha Vaalibar Sangam’, ‘Maan Karate’, ‘Rajini Murugan’, or ‘Remo’, many dark days have been brightened by his presence.

All these avatars make Sivakarthikeyan a superb entertainer. Even more than the entertainment, his effort to try to do good through cinema is felt and makes a big difference to us fans. In the days to come we hope to see more and more. He's already acted as a woman so that's ruled out for now. Maybe we can see him take the director's chair next?

Well whatever you've got for us, we're ready and waiting to be surprised. The stage is all yours. Hope this year marks the start of new initiatives for you. Wishing you a very happy birthday Sivakarthikeyan!

With Love from a Verithanamana SK fan (if it wasn't obvious enough)