Family's Theatre Struggles: Vijayaraghavan Recounts Stigma

Actor Vijayaraghavan recently shared poignant details about his childhood, marked by his family's extensive involvement in theatre and the associated social stigma. Growing up as the son of renowned theatre personality N. N. Pillai, Vijayaraghavan witnessed firsthand how society often viewed acting as a shameful profession. This attitude led to some relatives shunning the family and openly mocking his father.

Vijayaraghavan described how his entire family, including his parents, siblings, and father's sister, were part of the theatre world. This collective dedication meant they faced significant criticism, with many relatives avoiding their home and disparaging their chosen profession. The actor recalled being referred to by his father's name and enduring societal judgment.

Despite these challenging early experiences, Vijayaraghavan also spoke warmly about his relationship with his father. He described N. N. Pillai as both a strict parent and a close friend, emphasizing a unique bond that eliminated any sense of distance between them. This admiration for his father coexisted with their personal friendship.