Manorama, affectionately known as Aachi, was a legendary Indian actress and comedian whose contributions to Indian cinema remain unparalleled. She was primarily known for her work in Tamil cinema, along with appearances in Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam, and Hindi films. Over an extraordinary career spanning more than six decades, she acted in over 1,500 films, 5,000 stage plays, and 1,000 television episodes, making her one of the most prolific actresses in history.
Her impeccable comic timing, powerful acting skills, and ability to perform a wide range of roles made her an irreplaceable icon. This article provides a detailed look at Manorama’s biography, personal life, film career, net worth, and a comprehensive filmography.
Personal Details of Manorama
| Film Name | Gopishantha (Stage Name: Manorama) |
| Nickname | Aachi |
| Date of Birth | May 26, 1937 |
| Date of Death | October 10, 2015 |
| Age (at the time of death) | 78 years |
| Place of Birth | Mannargudi, Tamil Nadu, India |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Height | 5 feet 3 inches (160 cm) |
| Weight | 65 kg (143 lbs) |
| Zodiac Sign | Gemini |
| Profession | Actress, Comedian, Singer |
| Years Active | 1958 – 2015 |
| Marital Status | Divorced |
| Spouse | S. M. Ramanathan (Divorced) |
| Children | Bhoopathy (Son) |
| Father | Kasiyappan |
| Mother | Ramamirtham |
| Religion | Hinduism |
Early Life & Background
Manorama was born as Gopishantha on May 26, 1937, in Mannargudi, Tamil Nadu, India. She had a passion for acting from a young age and started her career as a theatre artist. She was discovered by filmmaker Krishnan-Panju, which paved the way for her transition into cinema.
Her journey from a stage performer to one of the most celebrated actresses in Indian cinema was remarkable. She became known for her comic roles, strong supporting characters, and powerful dramatic performances.
Career Journey
Manorama’s career spanned over five decades, making her an integral part of Indian cinema. She worked with top stars like Sivaji Ganesan, M.G. Ramachandran (MGR), Rajinikanth, and Kamal Haasan.
Early Career & Debut (1958–1960s)
- Manorama made her film debut in Malayitta Mangai (1958).
- She started as a character artist and gradually transitioned into comedy.
- Films like Thillana Mohanambal (1968) and Galatta Kalyanam (1968) cemented her place in Tamil cinema.
Peak Years (1970s–1980s)
During this period, Manorama became the leading comedienne of Tamil cinema, appearing in multiple blockbuster films annually.
- She worked extensively with Nagesh, Thengai Srinivasan, and Goundamani.
- Notable films include:
- Thillana Mohanambal (1968)
- Galatta Kalyanam (1968)
- Server Sundaram (1964)
- Puthiya Paravai (1964)
Versatility in Cinema (1990s)
In the 1990s, she transitioned into motherly and dramatic roles while continuing her comedy career.
- She starred in iconic films such as:
- Chinna Thambi (1991)
- Annamalai (1992)
- Gentleman (1993)
- Nattamai (1994)
- Indian (1996)
Later Years & Television (2000s–2015)
Even in her later years, she continued to act in films and television.
- Films like:
- Sivaji: The Boss (2007)
- Singam (2010)
- Rajapattai (2011)
- Singam II (2013)
- She was actively involved in TV serials and was honored for her contributions to Indian cinema.
Filmography
Manorama acted in over 1,500 films in multiple languages. Below is a partial list of some of her most notable films.
Tamil Films
| Year | Film Name | Character |
| 1958 | Malayitta Mangai | Debut film |
| 1960 | Kalathur Kannamma | |
| 1965 | Thillana Mohanambal | Karuppayi |
| 1968 | Galatta Kalyanam | |
| 1970 | Thirumalai Thenkumari | |
| 1973 | Bharatha Vilas | Meera Bai |
| 1986 | Samsaram Adhu Minsaram | |
| 1991 | Chinna Thambi | |
| 1992 | Annamalai | Annamalai’s Mother |
| 1993 | Gentleman | Kicha’s Mother |
| 1994 | Nattamai | Nattamai’s Aunt |
| 1996 | Indian | Kuppamma |
| 2007 | Sivaji: The Boss | |
| 2010 | Singam | Kavya’s Grandmother |
| 2016 | Manal Kayiru 2 | Last film |
Telugu Films
| Year | Film Name | Character |
| 1963 | Lava Kusha | Washerwoman |
| 1983 | Khaidi | |
| 1992 | Gharana Mogudu | |
| 2003 | Tagore |
Malayalam Films
| Year | Film Name | Character |
| 1982 | Aa Raathri | |
| 1996 | Hitler | |
| 2003 | Balettan |
Kannada Films
| Year | Film Name | Character |
| 1985 | Shruthi Seridaaga | |
| 1997 | Mannina Doni |
Affairs & Personal Life
Manorama was married to S.M. Ramanathan, but they later divorced. She had one son, Bhoopathy, who was involved in the film industry.
She was actively involved in philanthropy and contributed to various social causes.
Net Worth & Lifestyle
Manorama was one of the highest-paid supporting actresses in South Indian cinema.
- Estimated Net Worth: $3-5 Million (Approx.)
- Sources of Income: Films, TV Shows, Stage Plays, Brand Endorsements
- Properties: Owned multiple houses in Chennai
- Lifestyle: Lived a comfortable and humble life
Awards & Recognition
Manorama received numerous awards for her immense contributions to cinema.
- Padma Shri Award (2002) – Government of India
- National Film Award for Best Supporting Actress – Puthu Puthu Arthangal (1989)
- Tamil Nadu State Film Awards – Multiple wins
- Lifetime Achievement Award – For her immense contributions to Indian cinema
She holds a Guinness World Record for acting in over 1,500 films, making her one of the most prolific actresses in the world.
Legacy & Influence
Manorama revolutionized the role of women in comedy, breaking stereotypes and proving that actresses could have strong, independent careers beyond glamour roles.
She remains an icon in Indian cinema, inspiring countless actors and comedians.
Conclusion
Manorama’s journey from a humble stage artist to an iconic actress is truly inspiring. Her extraordinary talent, dedication, and versatility made her one of the most celebrated personalities in Indian cinema.
Her legacy continues to thrive through her films, and she remains an unforgettable legend in Indian film history.
