Koothadi, meaning performing artist, is the title A Susairaj’s parents used to refer to him as a child. A theatre director from Karaikal, Susairaj recently received the Sangeet Natak Akademi award 2022-2023 for his significant contribution to Indian theatre, specifically in the domain of direction. Despite coming from a modest background, Susairaj pursued his passion relentlessly. His father worked as a mason, and his mother was a homemaker. While his parents wanted him to choose a more conventional path that would guarantee regular employment, Susairaj felt a different calling. He was deeply drawn to theatre. After completing his Class X, Susairaj took up a job as a peon at Aringnar Anna Govt Arts and Science college to support his family. It was during this period that he encountered Karai Subbaiah, a lower division clerk who played a vital role in shaping his theatrical journey.

Subbaiah served as Susairaj’s guru and provided him with opportunities to act and direct plays. Susairaj spent almost a decade learning from him. While Subbaiah eventually transitioned to playing in orchestras, he entrusted Susairaj with the task of staging plays. Since then, Susairaj has dedicated his life to theatre and immersed himself entirely in the art form. He even formed a band named Karai Kalaikavalar Kalai Kuzhu, as a tribute to his guru. Their plays, mainly comedies, gained immense popularity. One of their productions, titled ‘Theru Vilakku,’ won several prizes in competitions held in Puducherry and Tamil Nadu. The play revolves around an orphan who arrives in a village as a nomad and eventually sacrifices his life to save it.

Now 74 years old, Susairaj looks back on a career that spans over five decades and consists of more than 11,000 dramas. His son, John Kennedy, and his two grandsons, Joseph Christopher and Victor Mariavyani, have also found success in theatre. Despite his age, Susairaj remains passionate about his craft and intends to continue his journey in theatre for as long as he can. His perseverance, dedication, and love for theatre have earned him respect and recognition across the industry.

For more details, read the full article on Times of India.