Y Gee Mahendra celebrates 50 years in films

While he is only infrequently seen on the big screen these days, actor

Y Gee Mahendra

was a sought-after artiste in the 70s and 80s. The veteran dramatist and actor is now celebrating his 50th anniversary in the film industry.

September 3 marked Y Gee's 50th year in films. He made his debut in the film

Navagraham

, which was released on September 3, 1970. The film was directed K Balachander, who has introduced innumerable talents to Tamil cinema, including Superstar Rajinikanth. Y Gee, who played a minor role in the film, soon became known for his comic and dramatic acting styles, and was seen in crucial supporting roles in films like

Paritchaikku Neramaachu

, Sagalakala Vallavan and Nallavanukku Nallavan.

He also ventured into the TV industry, and played lead roles in serials like Rudraveenai, Chidambara Ragasiyam and Sahaana. In 1987, he even tried his hand at direction and directed the film Kathai Kathaiyam Karanamam.

"

50 Years

Back On Sep 3rd 1970 my first movie NAVAGRAHAM was released. Just sharing the memory with all You Wellwishers. AND A BIG THANX... To The Almighty..To the great K.Balachander who introduced me and Kalakendra Govindrajan and actor Srikanth who took me to him . ...To Every Producer Director Writer Actor and Technician who shaped me....To All the Press and Media who have been Kind and Critical of Me...To All the Rasikas all over the world who encouraged Me On and Off Screen...to My Parents and Family who stood by me ....And to my two "MANASIGA GURUS" Sivaji Ganesan & Nagesh (sic)," the actor wrote in a note he sent to the press.