Vijay Sethupathi Turns 48

From small-town roots to pan-India stardom, a journey of grit and versatility

January 16, 2026: Actor-producer Vijay Sethupathi celebrates his 48th birthday on January 16, 2026, marking another landmark in a career known for bold choices and unforgettable performances. From Rajapalayam in Tamil Nadu to becoming one of Indian cinema’s most respected actors, Sethupathi’s rise is defined by perseverance, range, and a willingness to take creative risks that resonate across languages.

His path to films was far from easy. After an unsuccessful audition in the 1990s and a stint working as an accountant in Dubai, Sethupathi returned to India to pursue acting seriously. His breakthrough came with Thenmerku Paruvakkaatru (2010), followed by acclaimed performances in films such as Pizza, Naduvula Konjam Pakkatha Kaanom, Sundarapandian and Sethupathi. Known for unconventional script choices, he expanded his national appeal with a powerful role in Shah Rukh Khan’s Jawan.

As of 2024, Sethupathi reportedly charges around ₹15 crore per film, with his Jawan fee pegged higher, contributing to an estimated net worth of about ₹140 crore. He has earned multiple awards, including Tamil Nadu State Film Awards. Looking ahead to 2026, he will star in the Hindi silent film Gandhi Talks and headline the Disney+ Hotstar series Kaattan, continuing to strengthen his presence across cinema and streaming platforms.