Manohar Velmurugan Thangasamy, a renowned Indian actor, professionally recognized by his stage name Charle or Charlie, embarked on his illustrious acting journey on March 6, 1960. Throughout his remarkable career, which has spanned an impressive five decades, he has had the privilege of appearing in an astonishing number of over 550 Tamil films, effortlessly showcasing his versatility by playing a wide range of roles, including those of a comedian and a supporting actor.
Charles' academic journey began with an undergraduate degree in chemistry from G. V. N. College, a prestigious institution located in the charming town of Kovilpatti, nestled in the culturally rich state of Tamil Nadu. As he navigated his college days, he made a name for himself by showcasing his remarkable flair for the dramatic, effortlessly mimicking the mannerisms of celebrated Tamil actors such as Sivaji Ganeshan, Muthuraman, and Nagesh. With an innate talent for the stage, Charles became an accomplished thespian, entertaining his peers and professors alike with his captivating performances at various college events.
As Charle's academic journey came to a close, he embarked on a professional path that would ultimately lead him to become a multifaceted artist. He commenced his career as a Staff Artist – Actor within the esteemed Song & Drama Division of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.
Charles's entry into the world of cinema was significantly influenced by the illustrious director, Padma Sri Dr. K. Balachandar, who provided him with his maiden opportunity in the 1982 film "Poikal Kuthirai". This marked the beginning of his remarkable journey in the industry, which would subsequently see him excel in a wide range of genres, including comedy and character roles. His impressive repertoire of performances would go on to captivate audiences in not only Tamil, but also Telugu and Malayalam films.
Moreover, Charles's versatility as a performer was further underscored by his decision to dub his own voice in the Malayalam film "Hijack", a testament to his remarkable vocal range and ability to adapt to diverse roles.
Charle, a veteran of the entertainment industry, has amassed an impressive body of work, boasting a staggering total of over 550 films to his credit, with a significant portion of his repertoire consisting of productions by the esteemed National Film Development Corporation of India.
In addition to his extensive work in front of the camera, Charle has also showcased his remarkable versatility by honing his skills in various other creative disciplines. His proficiency in miming has allowed him to bring a unique and captivating dimension to his performances, while his expertise in mono acting has enabled him to convey a wide range of emotions and characters with remarkable depth and nuance.
Furthermore, Charle has also demonstrated his ability to excel in the realm of live entertainment, effortlessly transitioning from the silver screen to the stage. His impressive range as an anchor has seen him deliver engaging and memorable performances in various countries around the world, solidifying his reputation as a true master of his craft.
Notably, Charle's professional endeavors extend far beyond his captivating performances on screen, as he has also achieved significant academic accomplishments.
With a Master of Arts degree from the esteemed Madurai Kamaraj University, Charle has demonstrated a strong foundation in his chosen field.
Furthermore, he has also earned a Master of Philosophy degree from Karaikudi Alagappa University, showcasing his exceptional intellectual abilities and dedication to the pursuit of knowledge.
In particular, his dissertation for the M.Phil degree, titled "Contributions of Comedians in the growth of Tamil cinema – 1937 to 1967," serves as a testament to his remarkable academic prowess and unwavering commitment to the study of Tamil cinema.
This outstanding achievement not only highlights Charle's exceptional academic abilities but also underscores his passion for exploring the rich cultural heritage of Tamil cinema.
