P Samuthirakani is a Tamil film actor and director. He worked as an assistant to director K Balachander. His 2009 directorial Naadodigal was a runaway hit, which was later remade in three languages. He has acted in several films as well and is best known for his performances in Subramaniapuram, Easan (both directed by M Sasikumar), and Saattai. He won the National award for best supporting actor in 2016 for his acting in the movie Visaranai. He was born on 26 April 1973 in Seithur, Rajapalayam, Tamil Nadu. He met with various insults in his life but he did not lose heart at anytime. Finally he got chances to direct a film. The film Unnai Saranadainthen in 2003 marked his directorial debut. His venture continued with the film Neranja Manasu in 2004. The film Nadodigal in 2009 made him a very successful director. Apart from directing films he is also interested in acting. His acting skills are showcased in the film Subramaniapuram in which he played the negative role. His acting debut in Malayalam is Shikar and this film gave him good exposure as an actor. He is a good friend of the director Sasikumar. Some of the films that he has directed include Unnai Charanadaindhen, Neranja Manasu, Naadodigal, Shambo Shiva Shambo, Poraali, etc. The films that he has acted include Parthale Paravasam, Poi, Paruthiveeran, Shikkar, Eesan, Thiruvambadi Thamban, Saattai, Neerparavai, Pathiramanal, The Reporter, etc. He worked as dubbing artist for the films Aadukalam and Dhoni. He has also acted in some television series and game shows namely Anni, Ramany Vs Ramany Part II, Thangavettai, Arasi, etc.