Y. G. Mahendran Quotes

Even when I have a vintage play, I draw in elements from current scenarios, so that modern audiences can empathize with the characters.

It is well-known that whistling is a great pick-me-up and promotes a feeling of happiness.

My mother made me listen to Carnatic music saying that only then I will be able to appreciate any good music. But what this has also done for me is that I’m unable to accept modern-day cinema songs.

There was a time when people were afraid that film music would totally displace classical music.

During dad’s time, we didn’t have many sabhas to nurture plays. Later soaps threatened to subdue theatre.

The applause from the audience gives me a high. Probably that’s what has kept my love for theatre intact.

I always was a great fan of Malayalam cinema, Sathyan in particular. I loved their understated acting.

Generally, I travel with my own cast to stage plays in different countries.

I believe that actors should get into the soul of the characters, even if it is just for one scene.

I acted in ‘Oomakkuyil’ under Balu Mahendra’s baton.

The plays that I performed in the ’70s are not the same plays that I perform today. However, what they have in common is a solid foundation of a story, and good, healthy comedy.

I have been whistling songs from childhood. I suppose it compensated for a lack of singing voice and satisfied my musical appetite.

I too once thought of producing a musical play on Tyagaraja. People fell at my feet, saying please don’t commit such a folly.

My mom was a pillar of support to my father in his theatre endeavors.

Of course, I have not just been a Sivaji Ganesan fan but a fanatic.

Of course, there is no substitute for live performances.

I would like to do one of Ilaiyaraaja’s songs. After all, I did play drums for him and have watched him closely while composing, recording and performing. I would like to do an album of Mohammed Rafi’s Hindi songs, too.

I believe in the need for paying for art. Free shows must not be encouraged.

People knew that I was a disciple of Sivaji Ganesan and wanted to honour his memory. In fact, I did a movie and play adaptation of ‘Vietnam Veedu,’ and used the song ‘Un Kannil Neer Vadinthal’ as part of the play.

My first wife is always the stage.

It is impossible to be miserable and depressed whilst whistling.

Live stage shows cannot be replaced.

Actors improvise on the stage and enjoy interacting with audiences.

A stage play is beautiful only when it is seen as a stage play, just like you cannot get the same effect of a live Bharatanatyam performance in a recording.

I play important roles in Vijay Antony’s ‘Saithaan,’ ‘Kadamban’ and ‘Vijay 60.’

I’ve been a part of Margazhi festival even as a little boy. I used to accompany my mom to concerts held by the Music Academy.

Maybe Carnatic music will become more digital, because it is an audio form. But even then, why do people flock to the December season in Madras? Because they want to see the artiste face-to-face.

One day, I came to perform after a film shoot, and I was told that the regular actress couldn’t come, and that my wife will be playing the character of my sister-in-law!

I might have had my highs and lows in cinema and television but in theatre the response has always been positive.

Even when I was working in 30 films a year I was doing 20 plays a month.