Daijiworld Media Network - Chennai

Chennai, Jul 16: Actor Vijay Sethupathi has reflected on his difficult childhood and the financial struggles his family endured, saying those experiences shaped his values of hard work, gratitude and perseverance long before he entered the film industry.

Speaking in an interview with Truly Ram, the Maharaja actor recalled how creditors frequently visited their home due to financial difficulties and how he always chose to stand by his father during those challenging moments.

"They say that youth is all about struggle and hardship. I've heard that question posed to me since I was a little boy. That was all there was. No matter when creditors would come or whoever sat down, I would sit right there with my dad. It was all me," he said.

He also shared a fond memory of his father, recalling a daily routine that remained special to the family.

"He has this regular practice. Around 9:30, he used to come here, park his Bullet bike and have some fried rice with us," Vijay Sethupathi said.

The actor revealed that acting was never part of his original career plans and that he had always preferred working to support himself and his family.

"I don't have any desire to do movies, sir. I've always loved working," he said.

Vijay Sethupathi said he took up daily wage jobs while still in school and later worked at a telephone booth, among several other occupations. He added that financial hardship taught him to value every opportunity and helped build the resilience that later became one of his greatest strengths.

The actor's life took a turning point after he returned from Dubai, when he gradually entered theatre before making his way into films.

Through persistence and years of hard work, he progressed from supporting roles to acclaimed performances in films such as Thenmerku Paruvakaatru, Soodhu Kavvum, Vikram Vedha and Maharaja, establishing himself as one of Tamil cinema's most sought-after actors.

Despite his success, Vijay Sethupathi said he continues to remember the sacrifices made by his family during his childhood.

The actor is currently gearing up for the release of his upcoming film Train, directed by Mysskin, which is expected to hit theatres in August.