Suriya worked in many superhit Tamil and pan-Indian films, establishing himself as one of South India's most respected actors. Know about Suriya's biography, affairs, age, birthday, father's name, mother's name, religion, wife, Date of Birth, family, relationship, marriage, show list, annual salary & net worth $36 million (₹300 crores), awards, height, weight, body measurements, controversies, new photos, and latest updates.
This Tamil cinema superstar has gained international recognition through critically acclaimed films like "Soorarai Pottru" and "Jai Bhim," both of which found global audiences on Amazon Prime Video and Netflix. His net worth of $36 million (₹300 crores) reflects his successful transition from regional Tamil cinema to pan-Indian stardom, making him one of the highest-paid actors in South Indian cinema today.
Beyond his acting prowess, Suriya has become a symbol of social consciousness in Indian cinema, using his platform to address issues of caste discrimination, education reform, and social justice. His recent films have not only achieved commercial success but have also sparked important conversations about systemic inequalities in Indian society, earning him recognition from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences as the first South Indian actor invited to join their prestigious organization.
Real Name | Saravanan Sivakumar |
---|---|
Nick Name | Suriya |
Profession | Actor, Producer, Philanthropist |
Date of Birth | 23 July 1975 |
Age | 49 years (as of 2025) |
Birth Place | Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India |
Height | 5'7" (170 cm) |
Weight | 154 lbs (70 kg, approx.) |
Net Worth | $36 million (₹300 crores, 2025) |
Marital Status | Married to Jyothika |
Nationality | Indian |
Suriya is famous as Suriya and is a prominent figure in the Tamil cinema industry. He is renowned as an actor, producer, and philanthropist and is considered one of the most versatile and socially conscious performers in South Indian cinema.
![]() |
Born into a family deeply rooted in Tamil cinema, Suriya initially pursued a different path before destiny led him to the silver screen. His rise to fame wasn't instantaneous; it was built on a foundation of consistent hard work, method acting, and a genuine commitment to storytelling. Unlike many contemporary actors who focus solely on commercial success, Suriya has consistently chosen projects that challenge societal norms and address pressing social issues, making him a favorite among critics and audiences who appreciate meaningful cinema.
Today, Suriya stands as one of Tamil cinema's most bankable stars, with his films regularly crossing the $12 million (₹100 crore) mark at the global box office. His influence extends far beyond entertainment, as he actively works through his Agaram Foundation to improve educational opportunities for underprivileged children. His recent films "Soorarai Pottru" and "Jai Bhim" have gained international acclaim on streaming platforms like Amazon Prime Video, introducing global audiences to the depth and quality of Tamil cinema while addressing universal themes of ambition, justice, and human dignity.
Like other successful stars such as Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan, Suriya has carved a unique niche in the entertainment world by balancing commercial appeal with artistic integrity and social responsibility.
Suriya was born on 23 July 1975 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. His father's name is Sivakumar, who is a renowned Tamil actor known for his versatile performances in the 1970s and 1980s, and his mother's name is Lakshmi Sivakumar, who is a homemaker. Suriya has two younger siblings - his brother Karthi, who is also a successful actor in Tamil cinema, and his sister Brindha Sivakumar.
Growing up in a family deeply connected to Tamil cinema, Suriya was exposed to the world of entertainment from an early age. However, his parents, particularly his father Sivakumar, were keen on ensuring that their children received a well-rounded education and weren't pushed into the film industry prematurely. The Sivakumar household was known for its emphasis on traditional values, education, and social responsibility. Despite being part of a film family, Suriya's childhood was relatively normal, with his parents ensuring that fame didn't affect the children's upbringing. The family maintained strong connections to their Tamil roots and cultural heritage, which would later influence Suriya's choice of meaningful cinema.
Suriya completed his schooling from St. Bede's Anglo Indian Higher Secondary School in Chennai. He was an average student academically but showed early interest in extracurricular activities, particularly in debates and cultural programs. His school years were marked by a growing interest in understanding social issues and developing his communication skills, traits that would later serve him well in his acting career.
After completing his schooling, Suriya pursued a Bachelor of Commerce degree from Loyola College, Chennai, one of the city's most prestigious institutions. During his college years, he initially had no plans of entering the film industry and instead considered a career in business or academics. However, his exposure to various social issues during his college years, combined with his natural charisma and communication skills, began shaping his worldview. It was during this period that he also developed his interest in fitness and began the disciplined lifestyle that would later become his trademark as an actor.
Suriya is married to Jyothika, one of Tamil cinema's most successful actresses of the early 2000s. The couple met during the filming of "Poovellam Kettuppar" in 1999 and developed a close friendship that gradually blossomed into love. After a courtship period of several years, they got married on September 11, 2006, in a traditional South Indian wedding ceremony that was attended by the who's who of Tamil cinema.
Their relationship is considered one of the most stable and admirable marriages in the South Indian film industry. Jyothika, who was at the peak of her career when they married, took a break from acting to focus on family life and raising their children. The couple has two children - daughter Diya (born 2007) and son Dev (born 2010). Suriya is known to be a devoted family man who prioritizes his family time despite his busy shooting schedules. The family maintains a relatively private life, with Suriya ensuring that his children are raised away from the constant media glare while still appreciating their cultural heritage.
Suriya is known for his disciplined lifestyle and commitment to fitness. He follows a strict workout routine that includes cardio, weight training, and functional fitness exercises. His dedication to physical fitness is evident in his lean, athletic physique that he has maintained consistently throughout his career. He is also particular about his diet, often following nutritionist-recommended meal plans during film shoots.
Favorite Food | Traditional South Indian cuisine, especially his mother's cooking |
---|---|
Favorite Color | Blue and White |
Favorite Actor/Actress | Sivaji Ganesan, Kamal Haasan (actors he admires) |
Favorite Music | A.R. Rahman's compositions, Classical Tamil music |
Hobbies | Reading, Camping, Fitness, Social work |
Favorite Destination | Himalayas, Ooty, European countryside |
Beyond his professional commitments, Suriya is deeply interested in education reform and social justice. He spends considerable time on his philanthropic activities through the Agaram Foundation, which he founded with Jyothika. His spiritual inclinations are reflected in his regular visits to temples and his practice of meditation. He is also an avid reader, particularly interested in books on philosophy, social issues, and biographies of inspiring personalities. Suriya's lifestyle reflects a balance between his professional demands, family responsibilities, and social commitments.
Suriya started his acting career in 1997 with the film "Nerrukku Ner," directed by Vasanth and co-starring Vijay. His entry into films came somewhat unexpectedly - while he was pursuing his commerce degree, director Vasanth approached him for the role after being impressed by his screen presence and natural acting ability. The film was a moderate success, but Suriya's performance was noticed by critics and audiences alike for its freshness and sincerity.
Career Debut Details | |
---|---|
First Movie | Nerrukku Ner (1997) |
Director | Vasanth |
Co-stars | Vijay, Simran |
Role | Supporting lead character |
Box Office | Moderate success, ₹8 crores worldwide |
The early years of Suriya's career were marked by a series of learning experiences and gradual improvement. His first few films, including "Kaadhale Nimmadhi" (1998) and "Sandhippoma" (1998), were not major commercial successes, but they helped him understand the nuances of acting and the demands of cinema. Unlike actors who achieve instant stardom, Suriya's journey was methodical - he worked with different directors, experimented with various genres, and continuously refined his craft. This period taught him the importance of script selection and character preparation, skills that would later define his career trajectory.
Suriya's career-defining moment came with "Nandha" (2001), directed by Bala. This intense drama showcased his ability to portray complex, emotionally demanding characters and established him as a serious actor capable of carrying performance-driven films. The film's success marked the beginning of his association with meaningful cinema and demonstrated his willingness to take on challenging roles that other commercial actors might avoid.
The real breakthrough in terms of commercial success came with "Kaakha Kaakha" (2003), an action thriller that presented Suriya as a stylish, modern hero while maintaining the film's realistic approach to storytelling. This was followed by the massive success of "Ghajini" (2005), which not only established him as a leading star but also showcased his dedication to physical transformation for roles. The film's success led to its Hindi remake starring Aamir Khan, bringing Suriya's work to national attention.
![]() |
The "Singam" franchise (2010, 2013, 2017) further cemented his position as one of Tamil cinema's biggest action stars, with each film earning over $18 million (₹150 crores) worldwide. However, it was his recent work in "Soorarai Pottru" (2020) and "Jai Bhim" (2021) that elevated him to international recognition, with both films receiving critical acclaim globally and establishing him as an actor-producer committed to socially relevant cinema.
Suriya has achieved remarkable financial success through his multifaceted career in entertainment and business ventures. As of 2025, his estimated net worth is $36 million (₹300 crores), making him one of the highest-paid actors in South Indian cinema and among the wealthiest entertainers in India.
Net Worth (2025) | $36 million (₹300 crores, approx.) |
---|---|
Annual Income | $6 million (₹50 crores) |
Monthly Income | $500,000 (₹4.2 crores) |
Per Movie Fee | $3.6 million (₹30 crores) |
Brand Endorsements | $240,000 (₹2 crores) per deal |
Other Income Sources | 2D Entertainment, Agaram Foundation, Real Estate |
Suriya's wealth primarily comes from his acting fees, which have grown exponentially over the past decade. His per-film remuneration of $3.6 million (₹30 crores) places him among the highest-paid actors in Indian cinema. Additionally, his production house "2D Entertainment," co-owned with his wife Jyothika, has produced several successful films, including "36 Vayadhinile," "Magalir Mattum," and "Ponmagal Vandhal." The company has not only been commercially successful but has also focused on content-driven cinema, particularly films with strong female protagonists.
Suriya enjoys a luxurious yet understated lifestyle that reflects his success while maintaining his grounded personality. He owns multiple properties across Chennai and other prime locations in South India. His lifestyle choices reflect a preference for quality and comfort rather than ostentatious display of wealth, aligning with his public image as a socially conscious celebrity.
Houses | Chennai Residence - $1.8 million (₹15 crores) Farmhouse in Kodaikanal - $600,000 (₹5 crores) |
---|---|
Cars | BMW X6 - $120,000 (₹1 crore) Audi Q7 - $108,000 (₹90 lakhs) Toyota Land Cruiser - $96,000 (₹80 lakhs) |
Investments | Real Estate, Stock Market, 2D Entertainment Production House |
Suriya's filmography spans over two decades and includes some of Tamil cinema's most memorable and commercially successful films. His ability to balance commercial entertainment with meaningful content has made him a favorite among both critics and audiences, resulting in consistent box office success across various genres.
Movie | Year | Director | Box Office Collection | Genre |
---|---|---|---|---|
Ghajini | 2005 | A.R. Murugadoss | $9 million (₹75 crores) | Action/Thriller |
Vaaranam Aayiram | 2008 | Gautham Vasudev Menon | $7.2 million (₹60 crores) | Drama |
Singam | 2010 | Hari | $12 million (₹100 crores) | Action |
Singam 2 | 2013 | Hari | $18 million (₹150 crores) | Action |
Soorarai Pottru | 2020 | Sudha Kongara | $15 million (₹125 crores) | Biographical Drama |
Jai Bhim | 2021 | T.J. Gnanavel | OTT Release | Legal Drama |
The evolution of Suriya's career can be traced through his filmography, which shows a gradual shift from commercial entertainers to more content-driven cinema. His early successes like "Kaakha Kaakha" and "Ghajini" established him as a commercially viable star, while films like "Vaaranam Aayiram" showcased his range as a performer. The "Singam" franchise proved his ability to carry big-budget action entertainers, with each installment performing better than the previous one at the box office.
However, it's his recent work in "Soorarai Pottru" and "Jai Bhim" that has truly set him apart in the current landscape of Indian cinema. "Soorarai Pottru," inspired by the life of Air Deccan founder G.R. Gopinath, not only achieved commercial success but also received critical acclaim internationally. The film's availability on Amazon Prime Video introduced Suriya to global audiences, with many international critics praising his nuanced performance. "Jai Bhim," which addresses issues of police brutality and social justice, became one of the highest-rated Indian films on IMDb and sparked important conversations about caste discrimination and human rights.
Height | 5'7" (170 cm) |
---|---|
Weight | 154 lbs (70 kg, approx.) |
Body Type | Athletic/Lean muscular |
Eye Color | Dark Brown |
Hair Color | Black |
Skin Tone | Wheatish |
Distinctive Features | Expressive eyes, well-maintained beard, athletic physique |
Suriya is known for his well-maintained athletic physique and distinctive screen presence. He has consistently maintained his fitness levels throughout his career, adapting his physical appearance according to the demands of his roles. His transformation for "Ghajini," where he developed a muscular physique with eight-pack abs, remains one of the most talked-about physical transformations in Indian cinema.
His fashion sense reflects a blend of casual elegance and South Indian traditional wear. Off-screen, Suriya prefers simple, comfortable clothing - often seen in well-fitted shirts, casual blazers, and traditional kurtas during cultural events. His grooming is always impeccable, with a preference for a well-maintained beard that has become his signature look. During film promotions and public appearances, he opts for designer wear but maintains an understated elegance that reflects his personality. His style evolution over the years shows a man who understands the importance of presentation while staying true to his cultural roots.
![]() |
Suriya has received numerous accolades for his outstanding contribution to Tamil and Indian cinema. His talent has been recognized both nationally and internationally, with his recent works gaining appreciation from global film communities and streaming platforms.
Year | Award | Category | Movie/Work |
---|---|---|---|
2022 | National Film Award | Best Actor | Soorarai Pottru |
2021 | Filmfare Award South | Best Actor - Tamil | Soorarai Pottru |
2009 | Tamil Nadu State Film Award | Best Actor | Vaaranam Aayiram |
2008 | Filmfare Award South | Best Actor - Tamil | Vaaranam Aayiram |
2004 | Vijay Award | Best Actor | Kaakha Kaakha |
Suriya has achieved several milestone recognitions, including being the first South Indian actor invited to join the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, the organization behind the Academy Awards. This invitation came following the international success and critical acclaim of "Soorarai Pottru." He was also honored when "Jai Bhim" was featured on the Academy Awards' official YouTube channel, highlighting its impact on global cinema discussions about social justice.
His contribution to socially conscious cinema has been particularly appreciated by critics and film festivals worldwide. "Soorarai Pottru" was India's official entry for the Best International Feature Film category at the 93rd Academy Awards, while "Jai Bhim" became one of the highest-rated Indian films on IMDb. Beyond individual accolades, Suriya's work has contributed to the growing recognition of Tamil cinema on international platforms, with his films regularly featured in global film festivals and streaming platforms' curated collections.
Currently, Suriya is working on several exciting projects that showcase his continued commitment to diverse storytelling. His upcoming film "Karuppu" is generating significant buzz among fans and critics alike, while "Suriya 46" remains shrouded in mystery but promises to be another collaboration with a renowned director. There are also rumors about "Vaadivaasal," a project that has been in development for several years and is expected to be a period drama showcasing Suriya in a completely different avatar.
Project | Role | Director | Release Date | Status |
---|---|---|---|---|
Karuppu | Lead Actor | Mari Selvaraj | 2025 | Post-production |
Suriya 46 | Lead Actor | T.J. Gnanavel | 2025 | Filming |
Vaadivaasal | Lead Actor | Vetrimaaran | TBA | Pre-production |
Suriya's recent focus has been on expanding the reach of Tamil cinema through strategic collaborations with leading streaming platforms. His production house, 2D Entertainment, has been actively developing content that appeals to both regional and national audiences, with several projects in the pipeline featuring strong female protagonists and socially relevant themes. The success of his OTT releases has also led to discussions about simultaneous theatrical and digital releases for future projects.
His influence extends beyond acting, as he has become a voice for important social causes through his films and public statements. Recent interviews have highlighted his commitment to using cinema as a tool for social change, particularly in addressing issues related to education, caste discrimination, and environmental conservation. Industry insiders suggest that Suriya is also exploring opportunities in web series and international co-productions, potentially marking his entry into global streaming content.
Unlike many contemporary celebrities, Suriya has maintained a relatively controversy-free career throughout his two-decade journey in cinema. His professional approach and commitment to meaningful cinema have earned him respect across the industry, though he has faced occasional challenges related to his choice of subjects and outspoken support for social causes.
The most significant challenge in his career came with the mixed reception of some of his experimental films in the mid-2010s, where critics and audiences felt he was choosing projects that didn't fully utilize his commercial appeal. However, Suriya used this period to reassess his career trajectory and ultimately returned with stronger, more impactful films like "Soorarai Pottru" and "Jai Bhim." His willingness to address sensitive social issues through his films, particularly caste discrimination in "Jai Bhim," did generate some political discussions, but his respectful handling of these topics has generally been appreciated by both critics and audiences.
Today, Suriya is considered one of the most respected figures in Tamil cinema, known for his professionalism, dedication to craft, and commitment to social responsibility. His ability to balance commercial success with meaningful content has established him as a role model for younger actors in the industry.
Here are some fascinating and lesser-known facts about Suriya that showcase his unique personality and remarkable journey in cinema:
![]() |
Suriya maintains a measured approach to social media, preferring quality engagement over frequent posting. Unlike many contemporary celebrities who are constantly active online, Suriya uses his platforms strategically to promote his films, share important social messages, and highlight the work of his Agaram Foundation.
Platform | Handle | Followers | Content Type |
---|---|---|---|
@actorsuriya | 10 million followers | Film promotions, family moments, social causes | |
Twitter/X | @Suriya_offl | 9.3 million followers | Film updates, social issues, fan interactions |
Suriya Sivakumar | 6.5 million likes | Official announcements, behind-the-scenes content | |
YouTube | 2D Entertainment | 2.1 million subscribers | Film trailers, interviews, foundation activities |
Suriya's most significant contribution beyond cinema is through the Agaram Foundation, which he co-founded with Jyothika in 2006. The foundation focuses on providing quality education to underprivileged children, with a particular emphasis on rural Tamil Nadu. The organization has directly impacted the lives of thousands of children by providing scholarships, educational materials, and infrastructure support to schools in remote areas. His approach to philanthropy is hands-on, with regular visits to beneficiary schools and direct interaction with students and teachers.
The foundation's work extends beyond just financial support - it focuses on holistic development by providing career guidance, skill development programs, and mentorship opportunities. Suriya's commitment to education reform stems from his belief that quality education is the key to breaking the cycle of poverty and social inequality, themes that are often reflected in his choice of films and public statements.
Suriya was born on July 23, 1975, and is currently 49 years old as of 2025. He will turn 50 in July 2025.
Suriya stands 5'7" (170 cm) tall and weighs approximately 154 lbs (70 kg). He maintains his physique through regular fitness routines and a disciplined diet.
Suriya is happily married to actress Jyothika since September 11, 2006. They met during the filming of "Poovellam Kettuppar" and have been together for over 18 years. Their marriage is considered one of the most stable relationships in South Indian cinema.
Yes, Suriya and Jyothika have two children - daughter Diya (born 2007) and son Dev (born 2010). The family maintains a private life, with the children being raised away from constant media attention.
Suriya completed his schooling from St. Bede's Anglo Indian Higher Secondary School in Chennai and later pursued a Bachelor of Commerce degree from Loyola College, Chennai, before entering the film industry.
Suriya's entry into films was somewhat accidental. Director Vasanth spotted him at a wedding function and was impressed by his natural charisma and screen presence. This led to his debut film "Nerrukku Ner" in 1997, co-starring with Vijay.
Suriya's biggest hits include "Ghajini" (2005), the "Singam" franchise (2010-2017), "Vaaranam Aayiram" (2008), "Soorarai Pottru" (2020), and "Jai Bhim" (2021). The latter two films brought him international recognition and critical acclaim.
Suriya is currently working on "Karuppu" directed by Mari Selvaraj, "Suriya 46" with director T.J. Gnanavel, and the long-awaited "Vaadivaasal" with Vetrimaaran, though the latter's timeline remains uncertain.
Suriya reportedly charges $3.6 million (₹30 crores) per film, making him one of the highest-paid actors in South Indian cinema. His fee varies based on the project's scale and his involvement as a producer.
As of 2025, Suriya's estimated net worth is $36 million (₹300 crores), earned through his acting career, film production ventures through 2D Entertainment, brand endorsements, and real estate investments.
Suriya's car collection includes a BMW X6 worth $120,000 (₹1 crore), an Audi Q7 valued at $108,000 (₹90 lakhs), and a Toyota Land Cruiser worth $96,000 (₹80 lakhs), reflecting his preference for luxury and comfort.
Suriya owns his primary residence in Chennai worth $1.8 million (₹15 crores) and a farmhouse in Kodaikanal valued at $600,000 (₹5 crores). He prefers to stay in Chennai to remain close to the Tamil film industry.
Suriya is selective about brand endorsements, typically charging $240,000 (₹2 crores) per deal. He has endorsed various brands over the years but focuses on products that align with his values and image.
Suriya loves traditional South Indian cuisine, particularly his mother's home-cooked meals. He follows a disciplined diet plan during film shoots but enjoys authentic Tamil food during his personal time.
Suriya maintains his physique through a combination of cardio, weight training, and functional fitness exercises. He follows nutritionist-recommended meal plans during film shoots and practices yoga and meditation daily for mental wellness.
Suriya co-founded the Agaram Foundation with his wife Jyothika, focusing on providing quality education to underprivileged children. The foundation has impacted thousands of lives by providing scholarships, educational infrastructure, and skill development programs in rural Tamil Nadu.
Yes, Suriya has won numerous prestigious awards, including the National Film Award for Best Actor (2022) for "Soorarai Pottru," multiple Filmfare Awards, Tamil Nadu State Film Awards, and is the first South Indian actor invited to join the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.
Suriya's official handles are @actorsuriya on Instagram (4.2M followers), @Suriya_offl on Twitter (5.8M followers), and "Actor Suriya" on Facebook (6.5M likes). He also has the 2D Entertainment YouTube channel with 2.1M subscribers.
![]() |
Across all social media platforms, Suriya has over 18 million followers, making him one of the most followed Tamil actors. His engagement rates are notably high due to his selective but meaningful posts.
Suriya has maintained a relatively controversy-free career. While his films addressing social issues like "Jai Bhim" generated some political discussions, his respectful handling of sensitive topics has generally been appreciated by critics and audiences alike.
Suriya comes from a prominent film family. His father, Sivakumar, is a renowned Tamil actor from the 1970s-80s, his brother Karthi is also a successful Tamil actor, and his wife Jyothika was one of the leading actresses of the early 2000s.
Suriya was born in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India, and spent his entire childhood and youth in Chennai. Despite his success, he continues to live in Chennai and remains deeply connected to Tamil culture and traditions.
Born on July 23, Suriya's zodiac sign is Leo, which is reflected in his natural leadership qualities, confidence, and generous nature. His personality combines the typical Leo traits of charisma and determination with a strong sense of social responsibility.
Suriya gained international attention through "Soorarai Pottru" and "Jai Bhim," both of which received critical acclaim globally. He became the first South Indian actor invited to join the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, and his films are regularly featured in international film festivals.
While Suriya has received offers from Bollywood, he has been selective about pan-Indian projects. He focuses primarily on Tamil cinema but is open to meaningful collaborations that align with his values and artistic vision.
Beyond acting, Suriya is expanding his production house, 2D Entertainment, focusing on content-driven cinema. He's also deeply involved in educational philanthropy through the Agaram Foundation and is exploring opportunities in web series and international co-productions.
Explore the journeys of remarkable individuals who continue to inspire across industries and cultures with their unique contributions.
For more celebrity biographies from South Indian cinema and Bollywood, visit our complete celebrities section.
Last Updated: January 15, 2025