Kutty Padmini is a legendary Indian actress, producer, and businesswoman known for her significant contributions to the Tamil film industry. She has an extensive career spanning over six decades, appearing in films as a child artist, lead actress, and supporting character. Her versatility and exceptional talent have earned her widespread recognition. In this article, we take an in-depth look at her biography, career, personal life, and filmography.
Early Life & Background
Kutty Padmini was born on 5 June 1956 in Madras, Tamil Nadu, India. She exhibited an early interest in acting, making her cinematic debut at a very young age. Her father, Srinivas Chakravarthy, and mother, Radha Bai, were well-connected in the Tamil film industry, paving the way for her entry into cinema.
She completed her schooling and higher education in Chennai, balancing her studies alongside a flourishing film career.
Physical Attributes
Kutty Padmini has maintained a graceful presence throughout her career. Here are her physical details:
Height: 5 feet 2 inches (157 cm)
Weight: 58 kg (128 lbs)
Eye Color: Black
Hair Color: Black
Career & Professional Life
Debut as a Child Artist
Kutty Padmini made her acting debut as a child artist in the 1959 Tamil film “Ambala Anjulam”. Her performance was widely appreciated, and she soon became a sought-after child star in South Indian cinema.
She gained immense fame with the film “Kuzhandaiyum Deivamum” (1965), which cemented her reputation as a brilliant young actress. The film, a remake of the Hollywood movie “The Parent Trap,” showcased her ability to portray dual roles with ease.
Transition to Lead Actress
After a successful stint as a child artist, Kutty Padmini transitioned into lead roles in Tamil, Telugu, and Malayalam films. Some of her notable films as a lead actress include:
“Thiruvarutchelvar” (1967)
“Punnagai” (1971)
“Engal Thangam” (1970)
“Bama Vijayam” (1967)
Her charming screen presence and expressive performances helped her establish herself as a leading lady in the South Indian film industry.
Television & Production Career
In the 1990s, Kutty Padmini ventured into the television industry, producing and acting in various serials. She played a significant role in shaping Tamil television serials with her innovative storytelling and production skills.
She co-founded Vaishnavi Films Enterprises, which has produced numerous successful Tamil serials and movies.
Recent Works
Despite her long career, Kutty Padmini continues to be active in the entertainment industry, making guest appearances in films, participating in reality shows, and contributing as a producer.
Personal Life & Affairs
Kutty Padmini is married to Prabhu Neelakantan, a businessman. The couple has two children and maintains a low-profile personal life.
She has been linked to various actors and filmmakers in the industry, but she has always maintained a dignified silence about her personal relationships.
Net Worth & Lifestyle
Kutty Padmini has amassed a significant net worth due to her acting career, production ventures, and business initiatives.
Estimated Net Worth: $5 Million (~₹40 Crores INR)
Primary Income Sources:
Film & Television Acting
Production House (Vaishnavi Films Enterprises)
Brand Endorsements
Reality Show Appearances
She owns luxury cars and a beautiful home in Chennai, reflecting her successful career.
Filmography
Tamil Films
| Year | Film Name | Character |
| 1959 | Abalai Anjugam | – |
| 1960 | Deiva Piravi | – |
| 1961 | Pasa Malar | Young Radha |
| 1962 | Azhagu Nila | Lakshmi |
| 1965 | Kuzhandaiyum Deivamum | Lalli/Padmini “Pappi” |
| 1966 | Sadhu Mirandal | Preema |
| 1967 | Thiruvarutselvar | Ponni |
| 1969 | Nam Naadu | Selvi |
| 1970 | Maanavan | – |
| 1981 | Nandu | Lakshmi |
| 1987 | Oru Thayin Sabhatham | Mrs. Ravi |
| 2018 | Utharavu Maharaja | – |
Telugu Films
| Year | Film Name | Character |
| 1959 | Daiva Balam | – |
| 1960 | Shanthi Nivasam | – |
| 1963 | Irugu Porugu | – |
| 1965 | Anthasthulu | – |
| 1966 | Asthi Paraglu | Ammulu |
| 1966 | Leta Manasulu | Puppy/Lalitha (Dual role) |
| 1978 | Chilipi Krishnudu | College student |
| 1982 | Antha Banthalu | Patient |
Malayalam Films
| Year | Film Name | Character |
| 1964 | School Master | – |
| 1965 | Odayil Ninnu | Young Lakshmi |
| 1973 | Surya Gandhi | – |
| 1985 | Anubandham | – |
Kannada Films
| Year | Film Name | Character |
| 1963 | Saaku Magalu | Babu (baby boy) |
| 1965 | Satya Harischandra | Lohitasya |
| 1975 | Katha Sangama | Shoba |
Hindi Films
| Year | Film Name | Character |
| 1963 | Grahasthi | Abbitu |
| 1963 | Dil Ek Mandir | Uma |
| 1987 | Kudrat Ka Kanoon | – |
Conclusion
Kutty Padmini has had an illustrious career in Indian cinema, from being a child artist to a lead actress and a successful producer. With her contributions to Tamil cinema and television, she remains an icon in the South Indian film industry.
