Tamil Actor Anand Babu, the son of the legendary actor Nagesh, did have a stint in the Tamil cinema industry, but his success was relatively limited compared to his father’s iconic career.
Several factors contributed to Anand Babu’s challenges in establishing himself as a prominent actor in the industry:
- High Expectations:
- Anand Babu faced high expectations due to his father’s image, a highly respected and beloved actor in Tamil cinema.
- Such comparisons can be burdensome for any actor trying to carve their own identity.
- Anand Babu didn’t have his father’s talent but was an excellent dancer.
- Timing:
- Anand Babu made his debut in the 1980s when Tamil cinema was witnessing the rise of new stars and trends.
- The competition was fierce, and breaking through in such a competitive environment was challenging.
- Choice of Roles:
- His choice of roles and films didn’t always align with the tastes and preferences of the audience at that time.
- Success in the film industry often depends on selecting the right scripts and roles that resonate with viewers.
- Limited Opportunities:
- Unlike his father, who had a prolific career spanning several decades, Anand Babu’s filmography was relatively limited. He didn’t have as many opportunities to establish himself firmly in the industry.
- Changing Trends:
- The film industry is dynamic, and audience preferences change over time. Adapting to evolving trends and staying relevant can be challenging for any actor.
- Personal Choices:
- Personal factors and career choices outside of acting can also influence an actor’s trajectory. Anand Babu may have made decisions that affected his career in the industry.
Anand Babu and Drugs:
Many producers and financiers who owed Nagesh many favors, piled him with Callsheets, he signed 21 Callsheets in 1984 – A record broken by Ramarajan in 1990 with 27 movies.
He did all roles including guest and supporting ones, he developed a passionate love for Actress Jeevitha (Wife of Telugu Actor Dr. Rajasekhar), with whom he did 8 films during this period.
In 1986 in Hyderabad, he was caught by the cops. His name cropped up in a major substance ring. Nagesh rushed to MGR and requested for help. MGR forgot all the strife with Nagesh and called NTR (then CM of AP).
Anand Babu was escorted to Hyderabad Airport by the Cops who erased his presence from the FIR. Only in 1997 that was publicly revealed.
Anand Babu disappeared for around 1.5 years to Singapore from Drug & Alcohol Rehab.
Kamal Hasan was disgusted with Anand Babu for putting his father through hell with his activities.
Once Sivakumar locked Anand Babu and stood guard until Nagesh’s people arrived to pick him up.
Suriya’s acting in Vaaranam Aayiram as a drug addict was based on Anand Babu including hitting his father.
Anand Babu’s Second Innings:
In 1990, Anand Babu took a break for 4 years due to a lot of failed movies. He gave a hit with Pudhu Vasantham, which was his biggest hit to date.
He subsequently worked in many multi-starrer movies and supporting roles. But he was terrified of too much stress as a hero which led him to substance/alcohol abuse.
Currently, Anand Babu is acting in a lot of Tamil and Telugu serials. His characters in the serials are getting recognition very much.
It’s essential to note that success in the film industry is a complex and multifaceted endeavor. Factors like talent, timing, choice of roles, and audience reception all play a crucial role. While Anand Babu didn’t achieve the same level of success as his father Nagesh, his contributions to Tamil cinema should be acknowledged.
