Charle

Biography

Charle, born Manohar Velmurugan Thangasamy on March 6, 1960, is a renowned Indian actor celebrated for his extensive work in Tamil cinema, with over 550 films to his name as a comedian and supporting actor.

He earned his undergraduate degree in chemistry from G. V. N. College in Kovilpatti, Tamil Nadu, where he displayed a flair for performing arts, often impersonating iconic Tamil actors such as Sivaji Ganesan, Muthuraman, and Nagesh. His talent for entertainment blossomed during his college years, establishing him as a prominent stage performer.

Charle's professional journey commenced as a Staff Artist in the Song & Drama Division of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, where he showcased his skills in over 1,000 dramas within six years. His film career began in 1982 when he debuted in "Poikal Kuthirai," directed by the legendary K. Balachander, who gave him the screen name Charle. He has excelled in various roles across Tamil, Telugu, and Malayalam films, notably lending his voice in the Malayalam film "Hijack."

With more than five decades in the industry, Charle has been instrumental in numerous projects, including those produced by the National Film Development Corporation of India. He is also accomplished in miming, mono acting, and anchoring at stage shows worldwide. Academically, he holds a Master of Arts from Madurai Kamaraj University and an M.Phil from Alagappa University, with a dissertation focused on the impact of comedians on Tamil cinema from 1937 to 1967.