Kumaravadivel Natarajan (born 12 January 1960), known professionally as Vadivelu, is an Indian actor, comedian and playback singer, having acted mainly in Kollywood movies. His first film as a lead actor, Imsai Arasan 23rd Pulikesi (2006), achieved commercial and critical success.
Vadivelu has also received awards in the Best Comedian category for his performances in various films, such as Kaalam Maari Pochu (1996), Chandramukhi (2005), and Kathavarayan (2008). His popularity led to his media-coined nickname, Vaigai Puyal (transl. The Storm of Vaigai River), referring to the river that flows through his hometown Madurai. Vadivelu's comedic dialogue in films served as an inspiration for memes in social media. In 2019, Vadivelu was featured in the sudden viral memes related to the hashtag Pray for Nesamani which was the most trending hashtag in India during the year.
Early life
Prior to his career, Vadivelu worked in his father's glass cutting business and continued it with his brothers after his father died. In his free time, he participated in local stage plays, usually in comedic roles.