Joseph Vijay, one of the most loved actors of the modern Tamil film era, celebrates his 42nd birthday today, the 22nd of June. He is fondly called as Ilayathalapathy (young chieftain). Yeah, he is 42 now and it is time people call him just Thalapathy. But his fans still prefer Ilayathalapathy, even his looks don’t quite match his age. He could still play a 20-25 year old college boy role quite convincingly. His dance movements are also fast for a 42 year old. He is probably the youngest 42 year old. How does he manage to be so fit and agile? Is he truly blessed with such a physique? Or does he train so much? It’s a mystery!

42 years with an acting experience of 24 years in his bag (not counting his childhood acts), he is one of the hottest property of K-Town right now. His career has seen a lot of ups and downs but he has never got carried away with them and has always maintained a calm and cool approach. People say that he is an introvert when he meets strangers but he always respects the love that his fans shower on him and takes time to meet his fans in person in spite of his busy schedule. Sincerity is one of Vijay’s biggest traits; it is said that he is always on time for work.

People rave him for his dance moves but to an extent that has actually suppressed the wonderful actor in him. Vijay is a great performer but one must say that his full potential in that regard has not been explored completely. Is it because of the script that he chooses or is it the directors who need to be blamed, is a question that needs to be analyzed. It is so fascinating to travel back over the years and see how Vijay’s career has progressed. During his early days, many were so skeptical on how a person with such an average look could succeed in films. But today, he has proved everyone wrong and is enjoying a stardom that very few people have managed to achieve.

So, on this happy occasion, I wish him a very happy birthday and the best in all his future endeavors.

Happy 42 years Thalapathy!