The Singapore Tamil entertainment industry is breaking new ground in the entertainment world with its remarkable achievements. Singapore Tamil films and series are well-known to Malaysian Indians, who also enjoy watching these productions. There is a substantial fanbase for several Singaporean artists and their projects in Malaysia. Artists like Suriavelan, Stephen Zechariah, and Mathialagan have amassed a significant number of followers here. Adding to this impressive list is Vikneswary Se, a popular Singaporean artist who is well-known not only in Malaysia but also in other countries, such as India.
Vikneswary Se has acted in many Singaporean series, carving a niche for herself in the industry. From humble beginnings, she has come a long way. In an interview with Varnam, Vikneswary shared more about her journey. She began her career in a beauty pageant show called Miss Vasantham on Vasantham Channel at the age of 21 in 2011. With a keen interest in modeling, Vikneswary joined Miss Vasantham. Vasantham is a Tamil-language free-to-air terrestrial television channel in Singapore, owned by the state media conglomerate Mediacorp.
During her childhood, Vikneswary aspired to become a police officer because she was always particular about following rules and regulations and valued discipline. She was an active student, participating in extra-curricular activities and volunteer programs at her school. As time passed, her ambitions shifted towards becoming a teacher. Unfortunately, she couldn’t enroll in a teacher training course in Singapore due to specific entry qualifications. Consequently, she pursued studies in journalism.
After completing her studies and entering the entertainment industry, Vikneswary’s interest in teaching persisted. Determined to give it a try, she became a private tutor while simultaneously managing her acting career. This showcased her ability to excel in both fields through effective time management. The Miss Vasantham pageant eventually paved her way into acting, as participants were given opportunities to be part of Vasantham series. This led to Vikneswary securing roles in acting and hosting programs.
Her proficiency in both Tamil and English makes her one of the best choices for a host in Singapore. Vikneswary has been involved in 50 projects related to acting and hosting, a tremendous achievement. Initially, she took up all the opportunities that came her way to determine where her true passion lay. She wanted to ensure that her love for acting was genuine and not just a result of the opportunities presented to her.
From Nijangal to Notable Recognition in the Industry
Vikneswary’s first series was the well-known “Nijangal” Season 2, directed by Abbas Akhbar. “Nijangal” Season 1 was well received by audiences, creating anticipation for the second season. Vikneswary played a supporting role in the series. Despite her consistent acting, it took many years of hard work and effort for her to establish her own identity in the industry. The industry already had pioneer artists who had solidified their places, and it was time for the next generation of young artists to debut and progress. Vikneswary made steady progress since her debut, and after years of dedication, she managed to gain recognition and carve out a place for herself in the industry. Her continuous commitment has fueled her growth, helping her navigate the challenges and experiences along the way.
Sharing her experiences working on her first series, “Nijangal Season 2,” Vikneswary described the experience as positive. She shared the screen with Arvind Naidu, Naren, and many others who were welcoming, genuine, and helpful. The director of the series, Abbas Akhbar, was able to elicit the performance he wanted from Vikneswary. She found Abbas to be a natural director and very easy to work with. Vikneswary emphasized the importance of a first director, saying,
“Your first director is very important, as they are the ones who pave the way for the kind of actress you can become.”
In this context, Vikneswary felt blessed to have Abbas as her first director. She portrayed the role of a con woman in the series, a character who persuades or tricks people into giving her money. This challenging role had negative shades, which was a departure for Vikneswary, who is known for her constant smile. Adopting a more serious demeanor and minimizing her smile and good looks was a significant challenge for her. One particular scene required Vikneswary to slap her co-actor, Naren. This was difficult for her, as she had never raised her hand against anyone before, and now she had to do it in her first series. When she doubted her ability to perform the scene, Abbas skillfully managed to guide her, resulting in a perfect shot in a single take. This experience underscored why the first director is so important: they pave the way for the kind of actress you can become. Vikneswary’s journey in “Nijangal Season 2” exemplifies the critical role a director plays in shaping an actor’s career, especially in their formative projects.
Moving forward, “Ragasiyam” was the series where Vikneswary played a lead role. The series, directed by Nafeesah and Vinu, revolved around the story of three lawyers. Notably, Vikneswary received the Best Actress award for her performance in the drama. After “Ragasiyam,” the creators cast Vikneswary in most of their projects as the lead for the next few years. This helped showcase Vikneswary’s potential to fellow directors and producers in the industry.
“I would like to thank Nafeesah and Vinu for believing in me and giving me those opportunities. At one point, it was a norm to portray female characters in series as emotional, requiring them to get angry, cry, and display intense emotions. When Nafeesah and Vinu cast me in their series, I learned to adeptly convey all these emotions through the characters they entrusted to me. This experience helped me advance my acting skills, and I am incredibly grateful to them.
In the past, women were typically cast in supporting roles in series. However, by giving more opportunities to women, Nafeesah and Vinu demonstrated that women are equally capable. This gradual shift helped to break the stereotype and showed that women could carry a series as main leads. Today, more directors cast women in leading roles, and this evolution began with the efforts and vision of individuals like Nafeesah and Vinu.”
Vikneswary’s Career Breakthrough
Vikneswary’s breakthrough came with her role in “Kalaba Kadhala.” This intriguing series revolves around the lives of a group of friends. In the show, Vikneswary portrayed “Anbazhagi,” a simple and innocent woman who eschewed makeup, embodying a natural simplicity. She adeptly conveyed a homely girl vibe, and the character holds a special place in her heart to this day.
Apart from that, Vikneswary’s significant breakthrough in her career, which brought her to a wider audience and international platform, was “Naam.” Prior to this series, Vikneswary herself was unaware of the magnitude of Suriavelan and Stephen Zechariah’s fanbase.
Many Malaysians are undoubtedly familiar with the “Naam” series, which was directed by acclaimed Singaporean filmmaker Suriavelan and featured music by the sensational icon Stephen Zechariah. The series revolves around six friends from diverse backgrounds who unite through their shared passion for music. Previously, Varnam had interviewed Suriavelan, providing insights into the journey of the “Naam” series, as featured in the article. “Naam” premiered during a lockdown period, becoming a treat for Indians worldwide. The series garnered viewership from various countries, including Malaysia, where there has always been a substantial fan base for the Suriavelan and Stephen Zechariah duo since their earlier work in “Usuraiye Tholaichen.” As expected, their projects generate high anticipation and receive strong responses. Audiences from other countries, such as India, also watched and shared the series on social media platforms. The song “Alli Pookal” particularly gained attention and was considered a sensation of the season. Many listeners who encountered it on radio or social media initially mistook it for a Kollywood song, highlighting its viral popularity during that period. Following its success, “Naam” had a second season that was equally well-received, solidifying its status as a memorable series for many viewers to this day.
Vikneswary played the role of “Harshini,” paired with Stephen Zechariah’s character “Aaryan” in the series. This was the first time Vikneswary and Stephen acted together, and their on-screen chemistry quickly made them a favorite among the audience. Their portrayal was beautifully depicted on screen, and the bond they shared in the series became truly memorable. However, Vikneswary revealed something unexpected!
“Actually, I was originally supposed to play the character of Nagamalini. I had agreed to this role and even received the script. I was happy because it was a challenging character for me.”
Following that, there were a few changes in the characters, and Vikneswary was asked to portray the character of Harshini instead. This decision marked a turning point in her career, as she embraced the role wholeheartedly. She breathed life into the character, delivering emotions effectively in every scene. The unexpected changes transitioned seamlessly onto the screen, showcasing Vikneswary’s versatility and dedication.
Initially unsure about pairing up with Stephen Zechariah, who played Aaryan, as they were quite different personalities even off-screen, Vikneswary’s apprehensions were quickly dispelled. The series not only showcased their on-screen chemistry but also laid the foundation for a strong friendship between them. Their portrayal as a couple resonated with audiences, and their bond remains fresh in the minds of viewers to this day. “Naam” not only boosted Vikneswary’s visibility internationally but also propelled her career to new heights. Her fanbase expanded beyond Singapore, reaching a global audience who appreciated her talent and dedication to her craft.
Unplanned things often bring us unexpected blessings.
Apart from “Naam,” the series “Parambarai,” directed by Jaya Rathakrishnan and Rajagopal, presented a challenging role that pushed Vikneswary’s boundaries. She dedicated herself completely to the character, “Rajathi,” who lived in the forest, covered in mud, portraying a simple girl without any makeup but filled with intense anger—a true warrior. This role marked another significant breakthrough in her career.
Moving forward, in addition to acting, Vikneswary is known for her inspiring positivity. Followers of hers and Stephen Zechariah may have noticed their shared use of the term “GODFIDENCE.” When questioned about its origins, Vikneswary explained that “GODFIDENCE” symbolizes a level of confidence that exceeds human strength, deriving its power from her steadfast faith. The term gained significance during Stephen’s concert in Kuala Lumpur, where they launched merchandise featuring the quote “Godfidence.” This initiative highlighted their shared spiritual values and inspired others with their message of faith and confidence in God.
Beacon of Positivity
Vikneswary has always been a beacon of positivity, radiating it through her unwavering faith in God. She firmly believes that acceptance is crucial in life. Her wisdom allows her to maintain a positive outlook despite facing obstacles, trusting that God always has better plans for everyone.
You must always believe that there is a higher power than yourself. There are certain things we have the power to control, but the majority of circumstances are beyond our control. Trust in God and the universe to handle those aspects. What is meant for me will always be mine. What belongs to us will never pass us by.
A perfect example that strengthened Vikneswary’s belief in this principle occurred in her younger days. She had always cherished music videos and harbored a deep desire to be part of them. Ten years later, Vikneswary finally landed her very first music video with “Alli Pookkal,” collaborating with some of the industry’s finest director, composer, and actor. The video gained international acclaim, amassing millions of views. This achievement exceeded her expectations and proved to be a far greater blessing than she had imagined. It was then that Vikneswary began to firmly believe that God understands our desires and needs. The right opportunities come to us at the right time.
Even when she’s feeling down or hurt, Vikneswary makes sure that her sadness never affects others. Whatever challenges she faces, she continues to present a cheerful face to the world. This mindset is a profound one to possess, as acceptance doesn’t come easily. Through her example, Vikneswary inspires others to stay positive and resilient, offering a beacon of hope to those navigating their own struggles in life. The positivity she radiates uplifts others and encourages them to adopt a similar outlook. Beyond her acting career, it is these positive values that elevate Vikneswary, making her a source of inspiration that resonates far and wide.
After maintaining a busy schedule for an extended period, she has decided to take a break from projects for the time being. Fans can anticipate her return after this hiatus. Having been in the industry for a significant duration, starting from scratch to becoming a prominent figure, Vikneswary has undergone tremendous growth. Accumulating diverse experiences, she has evolved into an experienced artist whose presence holds great significance. With her seasoned expertise, Vikneswary is now able to contribute her thoughts and opinions effectively to the projects she works on. Her journey has imparted invaluable lessons, transforming her into a refined artist. This growth and experience have empowered her to vocalize her insights and share meaningful information on social media platforms, benefiting her community. Given her substantial following, Vikneswary utilizes her platform to deliver useful messages and positive energy to her audience.
Thank you Malaysia!
Vikneswary SE deeply appreciates the overwhelming love and support from her Malaysian fans. Alongside her Singaporean supporters, Malaysians have consistently showered her with heartfelt messages and greetings, showing their excitement to meet her wherever she goes. At Stephen Zechariah’s concert in Kuala Lumpur, Vikneswary made a special effort to express her gratitude to the audience. She attended the concert to demonstrate her affection for Malaysian fans and was truly touched by the warmth and affection they showed her.
Malaysians hold a huge place in my heart! Thank you everyone for your love and support. My heart is with Malaysians.
When asked about her perception of the Malaysian Tamil entertainment industry and its artists, Vikneswary expressed her delight at the industry’s focus on movies rather than television series. She noted the significant presence of Malaysian Tamil theatrical films, which she considers a commendable achievement and a testament to the industry’s platform and success. Vikneswary emphasized the talent and dedication of Malaysian Tamil artists, highlighting their capability to excel in their craft.
The Much Wanted Collaboration of Malaysian and Singapore Entertainment Industry
Looking ahead, Vikneswary eagerly anticipates collaborations between the Malaysian and Singaporean film fraternities and entertainment industries. She believes that partnerships between Singaporean filmmakers and artists with their Malaysian counterparts have the potential to break barriers and achieve international recognition in the Indian market. This collaboration, she believes, will showcase the filmmaking prowess of Asian countries and underscore their capability to produce compelling cinematic works on a global scale.
We can observe a growing trend where Singaporean series are airing on Astro while Malaysian series are being broadcasted on Vasantham. This cross-airing has provided Malaysians with opportunities to explore and appreciate Singaporean series, showcasing the talents of artists from Singapore. Similarly, Singaporeans are also enjoying Malaysian series.
There have been notable collaborations between the two countries. For instance, Malaysian star Karnan appeared in Singapore’s “Avathaaram” series directed by Suriavelan, and Singaporean artist Mathi Alagan directed the Malaysian series “Kaathal Mathiri.” These collaborations mark significant milestones in the industry and demonstrate the potential for even greater success in theatrical films. Both countries possess immense talent within their respective industries, and there is substantial potential for further growth and collaboration. With continued cooperation and joint projects, the Malaysian and Singaporean entertainment industries can elevate their presence internationally, showcasing their combined capabilities and contributing to the global landscape of filmmaking.
The Singapore Tamil entertainment industry has made remarkable strides and achieved significant success. Despite its relatively small size, the industry is renowned for its exceptional talents both on-screen and behind the scenes. Each individual contributes to the industry’s high standards, emphasizing quality and teamwork as essential keys to success. According to Vikneswary, they not only aim to produce high-quality projects but also prioritize preserving the legacy of the Tamil language within the entertainment sector. The industry’s deep-rooted love for the language is evident in their commitment to integrating Tamil into their productions, which elevates their standing.
Singaporean artists are known for their dedication and willingness to go above and beyond their roles. They actively participate in a wide array of projects including movies, telefilms, short films, series, documentaries, Tamil theater, and music videos, all of which deliver quality content to audiences. Despite being a smaller community, the Singapore Tamil entertainment industry boasts abundant talent and makes significant contributions to both the Tamil language and the entertainment field. Their collective efforts continue to enrich and advance the industry in various impactful ways.
We strive to excel in every aspect of our craft. The Singapore Tamil entertainment industry is soaring and reaching international platforms. Several individuals from Singapore have achieved global recognition, such as Suriavelan in filmmaking, Stephen Zechariah in music, Puravalan in acting, Shabir Sultan in composing, and many other incredible talents. The industry is unstoppable, and we take immense pride in being a part of this vibrant community!
Vikneswary’s talent, industry growth, and unwavering dedication to success are truly mesmerizing and inspiring. She stands out as an artist who not only seeks personal growth but also strives for the advancement and prosperity of the entire entertainment industry. Her journey in the industry reflects a commitment to excellence and continuous improvement. Through her roles and contributions, Vikneswary has not only showcased her acting prowess but also actively contributed to raising the bar for quality and professionalism. Vikneswary exemplifies the essence of a dedicated artist whose journey is marked by growth, resilience, and a deep-seated love for her craft. Her inspiring presence in the industry serves as a beacon for aspiring talents and underscores the limitless potential of dedication and passion in achieving success.
All the information provided by Vikneswary Se.
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