Subramaniyan Karrupaiya is better known by his screen name, Goundamani. His reputation for quick-witted repartees earned him the name “Counter” Mani, which eventually became Goundamani. Born on 25 May 1939, he turns 86 today.
Goundamani’s first screen appearance was in an uncredited role in Krishnan-Panju’s Nagesh 1964 starrer Server Sundaram. He also had uncredited roles in Sivaji Ganesan’s Raman ethanai Ramanadi and Thenum Palum. Many years later – in 1977 – he made his first major screen appearance in Bharathiraja’s maiden directorial, Pathinaaru Vayathiniley where he played a sidekick to Rajinikanth.
Goundamani slowly worked his way up to becoming an essential comedian, often paired with fellow comedian, Senthil. They made an unbeatable pair in the 1980s through to the 1990s, with their most successful film being their 100th film together, Gangaiamaran’s Karakattakaaran.
In the late 2000s, Goundamani’s health took a downward turn, as he was dealing with diabetes and asthma. His last film was Otha Vota Muthaiya.
Goundamani’s wife, Shanthi, passed away on 5 May this year at the age of 67.
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