10 Most Iconic Villains of Tamil Cinema
Ajith (Vaalee)
Ajith, with his dual role in Vaalee (1999), delivered a chilling performance as a villain, where he played a mute, obsessed twin, showcasing his versatility
Raghuvaran (Baasha)
Raghuvaran’s portrayal of Mark Antony in Baasha (1995) remains one of Tamil cinema's most iconic villainous roles. His commanding presence and dialogue delivery made his character legendary
Kamal Haasan (Dasavatharam, Aalavandhan)
Kamal Haasan wowed the audience with his villainous Fetcher role in Dasavatharam (2008), and his portrayal of the psychotic Nandu in Aalavandhan (2001) took his villainy to new heights
Rajinikanth (16 Vayathinile)
Before becoming a superstar, Rajinikanth shone as the menacing Parattai in 16 Vayathinile (1977). His menacing laugh and cruel demeanor left a lasting impression
Nassar (Kuruthipunal)
Nassar as Badri in Kuruthipunal (1995) is one of the most intense villains Tamil cinema has seen. His other notable villainous roles include Devar Magan, Apoorva Sagodharargal, and Anbe Sivam
Mansoor Ali Khan (Captain Prabhakaran)
Mansoor Ali Khan is a prominent name in Tamil cinema's villain roster, with his terrifying role in Captain Prabhakaran (1991) alongside Vijayakanth. He has acted in over 200 films in villainous and character roles
Ramya Krishnan (Padayappa)
Ramya Krishnan’s portrayal of Neelambari in Padayappa (1999) stands as one of the most iconic female villains in Tamil cinema. Her fierce attitude and commanding performance stole the show
Prakash Raj (Iruvar, Ghilli)
Prakash Raj has made a career out of playing memorable villains, with his role as Muthupandi in Ghilli (2004) being one of his most iconic. His earlier role in Iruvar (1997) also showcased his villainy perfectly
Sathyaraj (Amaidhi Padai)
Sathyaraj’s portrayal of the corrupt and power-hungry politician Amavasai in Amaidhi Padai (1994) is considered one of Tamil cinema's best villain roles, cementing his status as a top antagonist
Suresh Gopi (Thevar Magan)
Suresh Gopi’s menacing portrayal of Maya Thevar in Thevar Magan (1992) alongside Kamal Haasan remains etched in memory as a villain who commands fear and respect