Latest news with #Ramasamy
News18
15 hours ago
- Entertainment
- News18
VK Ramasamy: The Tamil Star Who Married His Fellow Actor's Ex-Wife, Adopted Her Sons
In the annals of Tamil cinema, VK Ramasamy, known affectionately as VKR, was a figure whose contributions spanned five generations, marking an era that stretched from the black-and-white days of Tamil film to the dawn of the 21st century. Revered as both a comedian and a versatile character actor, his presence was ubiquitous in the industry, as he shared the screen with icons ranging from MGR to Simbu. But beneath his illustrious cinematic career lies a lesser-known, deeply personal story of sacrifice, love, and familial responsibility that reveals the true heart of the man behind the actor. (News18 Tamil) Born in Virudhunagar, VK Ramasamy, originally named Kandan Ramasamy, was not just an actor but also a passionate freedom fighter. Influenced by the ideals of the legendary Kamaraj, his involvement in the independence movement began at a young age. Alongside his patriotic fervour, Ramasamy harboured an intense desire to pursue a career in cinema - a desire that he nurtured from the age of 7, when he began acting in plays. (News18 Tamil) His early years on stage were marked by impressive performances, with one of his notable roles being that of Banker Shanmugam Pillai in the play 'Thiyaga Ullam' at just 15 years old. The play's success caught the attention of EV Meiyappa Chettiar, a prominent producer, who adapted it into the film 'Naam Iruvar' six years later. In this film, Ramasamy reprised his role as the elderly Shanmugam Pillai, at the age of 21. Thus began his film career, one that would span over five decades, with roles that transcended age, social class, and character. (News18 Tamil) VK Ramasamy's career trajectory is nothing short of extraordinary. Over 55 years, he worked alongside every major star in Tamil cinema, from MGR and Sivaji Ganesan to Rajinikanth, Kamal Haasan, and Simbu. His acting versatility was unmatched, whether playing comedic roles, serious character parts, or villains, Ramasamy proved his mettle across every genre. A testament to his enduring legacy in the film industry is his unique ability to adapt and evolve with the changing times of cinema. Despite his stellar career, Ramasamy always stayed grounded, maintaining close friendships with his co-stars and colleagues. Notably, he shared a deep bond with both Kamal Haasan and Rajinikanth, with whom he remained close throughout his career. His relationship with Sivaji Ganesan, too, was one of mutual respect and camaraderie, with the latter often acting under Ramasamy's direction during their theatre days. (News18 Tamil) However, Ramasamy's life was not without its struggles. Along with his love for cinema, he was known to have indulged in vices such as alcoholism and horse racing. Yet, despite these habits, Ramasamy's love for the craft of acting remained steadfast. He even took his passion for cinema a step further by producing films, often investing his earnings back into the industry he cherished so much. It was during this time that a significant chapter of his personal life unfolded, one that would forever define his character off-screen. (News18 Tamil) Ramasamy's first marriage to Suryakumari produced two sons, Raghunath and Rajendran. Raghunath would go on to become a filmmaker, directing movies such as 'Neengam Hero Than'. But the real turning point in Ramasamy's personal journey came with his second marriage to Ramaniammal, the ex-wife of actor MR Radha. At the time, Ramaniammal was struggling to raise her two sons, Raghu and Ravi, following a tumultuous separation from Radha. Ramasamy, moved by her circumstances and the plight of her children, not only took Ramaniammal as his wife but also declared her two sons as his own. (News18 Tamil) VK Ramasamy's love for Ramaniammal extended far beyond their marriage. He embraced her children, Raghu and Ravi, as his own, adopting them and raising them with the same care and affection he gave to his biological sons. Raghu, in a recent interview, revealed that it was Ramasamy who inspired his own dream of working in cinema. He went on to direct films like 'Wigneswar' and 'Kattapanjayathu', crediting his stepfather for his career in the film industry. (News18 Tamil) What made Ramasamy's actions even more remarkable was his unwavering commitment to his adopted family. Despite his busy career and personal challenges, he ensured that Raghu and Ravi were given the opportunities and guidance they needed. This act of love and sacrifice serves as a powerful testament to Ramasamy's character, one that went beyond the screen to make a lasting impact on the lives of those he held dear. (News18 Tamil) Ramasamy's health began to deteriorate in his later years, suffering from complications due to diabetes and heart disease. Despite his failing health, he continued to work, with his final appearance being in the 2021 film 'Kaathal Vaaavathillai', starring Simbu. He passed away at the age of 76, leaving behind a legacy not only as a consummate actor but also as a compassionate, selfless individual who made a lasting impression on those around him. In a world often consumed by fame and fortune, VK Ramasamy's story serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by those who love unconditionally. (News18 Tamil)
The Hindu
18-07-2025
- The Hindu
Seven cases transferred to CB-CID in Erode district
Superintendent of Police A. Sujatha said that seven cases registered in the last few years in Erode district, including the double murder of an elderly couple at Sivagiri, have been transferred to the Crime Branch – Criminal Investigation Department (CB-CID). She told reporters that of the seven cases, five were murders for gain, including those reported in Sivagiri, Arachalur, and Chennimalai. One case pertained to dacoity, while another involved a murder. On May 1, 2025, the bodies of Ramasamy (72) and his wife Bakkiyam (63), residents of Megaraiyan Thottam near Sivagiri, were found, and 10.75 sovereigns of gold jewellery were reported stolen. Investigations revealed that the couple had been murdered on April 28, 2025, by Aachiappan, Madeswaran, and Ramesh, all hailing from Arachalur. The trio handed over the stolen jewellery to Gyanasekaran, a goldsmith, who melted and returned the gold to them. All four were arrested. While the goldsmith was remanded in judicial custody, the other three were detained under the Goondas Act. During police custody, the three accused reportedly confessed to being involved in a triple murder that took place in Semalaigoundanpalayam in Tiruppur district on November 28, 2024. The case is currently under CB-CID investigation. They also admitted their involvement in murder cases in Arachalur and Chennimalai. It may be noted that 11 persons had already been arrested in connection with the Chennimalai murder case. Based on the confessions of the accused and their involvement in a total of seven cases in Erode district, all the cases have now been transferred to the CB-CID for further investigation.
New Straits Times
18-07-2025
- Business
- New Straits Times
Ramasamy withdraws suit against Chow over Batu Kawan land deal
GEORGE TOWN: Former Penang Deputy Chief Minister II Dr P. Ramasamy today withdrew his defamation suit against Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow over the controversial land sale issue in Batu Kawan. The consent judgment was recorded by Sessions Court Judge Helmi Ghani here after lawyer Dr Shamsher Thind Singh, representing Ramasamy, informed the court that his client agreed to withdraw the suit without the liberty to re-file it. Ramasamy initiated defamation proceedings against Chow on July 18 last year, over a statement published on Chow's official Facebook page on Oct 3, 2023, which Ramasamy alleged gravely damaged his reputation. The suit stemmed from a cancelled deal between Penang Development Corporation (PDC) and Umech Land Sdn Bhd over the sale of 226 hectares of land in Byram, Batu Kawan, which has now been cancelled. Chow was represented by lawyer In the same court, the PDC also withdrew its defamation suit over the same matter against Ramasamy without liberty to re-file and without an order as to costs. Ramasamy also agreed to withdraw statements he made about the PDC as part of the settlement. The Batu Kawan land deal became controversial due to allegations that it was sold below market value.
The Star
18-07-2025
- Politics
- The Star
Ramasamy withdraws suit against Chow over Batu Kawan land deal
GEORGE TOWN: Former Penang deputy chief minister II Dr P. Ramasamy on Friday (July 18) withdrew his defamation suit against Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow over the controversial land sale issue in Batu Kawan. The consent judgment was recorded by Sessions Court Judge Helmi Ghani here after lawyer Dr Shamsher Thind Singh, representing Ramasamy, informed the court that his client agreed to withdraw the suit without the liberty to re-file it. Ramasamy initiated defamation proceedings against Chow on July 18 last year, over a statement published on Chow's official Facebook page on Oct 3, 2023, which Ramasamy alleged gravely damaged his reputation. The suit stemmed from a cancelled deal between Penang Development Corporation (PDC) and Umech Land Sdn Bhd over the sale of 226 hectares of land in Byram, Batu Kawan, which has now been cancelled. Chow was represented by lawyer In the same court, the PDC also withdrew its defamation suit over the same matter against Ramasamy without liberty to re-file and without an order as to costs. Ramasamy also agreed to withdraw statements he made about the PDC as part of the settlement. The Batu Kawan land deal became controversial due to allegations that it was sold below market value. - Bernama
Barnama
18-07-2025
- Politics
- Barnama
Ramasamy Withdraws Suit Against Chow Over Batu Kawan Land Deal
GEORGE TOWN, July 18 (Bernama) -- Former Penang Deputy Chief Minister II Dr P. Ramasamy today withdrew his defamation suit against Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow over the controversial land sale issue in Batu Kawan. The consent judgment was recorded by Sessions Court Judge Helmi Ghani here after lawyer Dr Shamsher Thind Singh, representing Ramasamy, informed the court that his client agreed to withdraw the suit without the liberty to re-file it. Ramasamy initiated defamation proceedings against Chow on July 18 last year, over a statement published on Chow's official Facebook page on Oct 3, 2023, which Ramasamy alleged gravely damaged his reputation.
