Ramalakshmanan Muthuchamy Thevar (born 27 August 1977), known professionally as Soori, is an Indian actor and comedian who works predominantly in Tamil cinema. After a long career as a supporting comedian, he transitioned into leading roles, drawing wide critical attention for his performance in Viduthalai Part 1 (2023).
| Full name | Ramalakshmanan Muthuchamy Thevar |
|---|---|
| Stage name | Soori |
| Date of birth | 27 August 1977 |
| Occupation | Actor, comedian |
| Industry | Tamil cinema |
| Active since | 1998 |
| Breakthrough film | Vennila Kabadi Kuzhu (2009) |
| Popular nickname | Parotta Soori |
Soori entered the Tamil film industry in 1998 and spent his early years in uncredited and minor roles. His persistence over more than a decade eventually opened the way to recognised comic roles in mainstream Tamil productions.
Beginning his film career in 1998, Soori appeared in numerous small and uncredited parts before being noticed by audiences and filmmakers.
His major breakthrough came with Vennila Kabadi Kuzhu (2009), in which his portrayal earned him the popular moniker Parotta Soori. Following this film, he established himself as one of the recurring comedians in Tamil cinema through the 2010s.
After roughly a decade of working primarily as a comedian, Soori took on a dramatic lead role in Viduthalai Part 1 (2023), directed by Vetrimaaran. The performance was received with critical acclaim and marked a significant shift in his on-screen image.
Soori's career is often cited as an example of a long-form transition from background comedy work to lead dramatic acting in Tamil cinema. His shift with Viduthalai Part 1 highlighted the willingness of established directors to cast comedians in serious, central roles.