In an industry often dictated by fragile egos and leading-man status, director Vignesh Shivan has offered a refreshing take on his marriage to South Indian "Lady Superstar" Nayanthara.
Speaking to a Tamil YouTube channel, the filmmaker revealed that he harbours no resentment about being identified primarily through his wife's stardom; in fact, he wears the association with immense pride.
"In public, people often recognise me as Nayanthara's husband rather than by my own name," Shivan admitted. "I find great joy and pride in that. To be known by the name of your spouse or your children is a gesture of love, and there is something quite beautiful about it."
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The director shared a candid moment from their private life, noting that Nayanthara herself had once worried if her global fame was eclipsing his individual talent. Shivan, however, was quick to dismiss the notion. "Within a family, there is no room for the idea of one person overshadowing the other," he said, describing their relationship as the "greatest blessing" of his life.
Regrets over Dhanush feud
The interview also took a more sombre turn as Vignesh touched upon his fractured relationship with actor-producer Dhanush. The fallout, which stemmed from legal disputes involving Nayanthara, clearly weighs heavy on the director.
In a poignant admission, Vignesh expressed regret over the loss of their bond, stating that he has always viewed Dhanush as a "father figure." The two had previously collaborated on the 2015 hit Naanum Rowdy Dhaan-the very set where Vignesh and Nayanthara's seven-year romance first blossomed.
A fairy-tale journey
The couple, among the most influential power players in Indian cinema, tied the knot in June 2022 at a lavish, star-studded ceremony held at a luxury resort in Mahabalipuram. Their journey from collaborators to life partners remains one of Kollywood's most celebrated stories.