Not only a Tamil lyricist, but Snehan is also a poet, actor, social activist and political personality who has made everlasting marks in Tamil Nadu in various fields. Whether composing soul-stirring lyrics that touch the hearts of rural folk or participating in a reality show and taking the political plunge, Snehan has done it all.
Early Life and Humble Beginnings
Born in Pudhukariyapatti village in Tamil Nadu’s Pudukkottai district on June 23, 1978, as Sivaselvam, Snehan is a product of an Indian village. He was born the youngest of eight siblings to a middle-class farmer family and learnt the lessons of farmer life. Growing up in the circus became his most creative moment.
From an early age, Snehan was mesmerised and inspired by Tamil poetry, stories and folk tales. He completed his higher secondary education in a government school and had dreams much bigger than his village.
Key Details
| Category | Details |
| Full Name | Sivaselvam (stage name: Snehan) |
| Date of Birth | June 23, 1978 |
| Place of Birth | Pudhukariyapatti, Pudukkottai District, Tamil Nadu, India |
| Family Background | Youngest of 8 children; born to a middle-class farmer’s family |
| Parents & Siblings | 6 elder brothers, 1 elder sister (parents’ names not widely publicised) |
| Spouse | Kannika Ravi (married July 29, 2021) |
| Children | None (as of 2025) |
| Education | Completed higher secondary education at a government school in Tamil Nadu |
| Mentorship | Assistant to lyricist Vairamuthu for 5 years; editor of “Ilanthendral” monthly magazine |
| Debut | Film lyricist debut with “Putham Puthu Poove” (first released: “Penngal” 2000) |
| Major Works | Over 2,500 songs in 750+ Tamil films; notable: “Chumma Chumma” (Charlie Chaplin), “Aarariro” (Raam), “Kalyanamdhaan Kattikittu” (Saamy), “Avaravar Vazhkaiyil” (Pandavar Bhoomi) |
| Genres | Film lyricist, poet, literary writer, editor |
| Books | Published several poetry collections: “Mudhal Adhyayam”, “Innum Pengal Azhaga Irukkirargal”, “Ippadium Irukkalam”, “Puthagam” |
| Acting | Appeared in films like “Yogi” and “Uyarthiru 420” |
| Reality TV | Bigg Boss Tamil Season 1 (1st runner-up, 2017), Bigg Boss Ultimate (2022) |
| Political Career | Joined Makkal Needhi Maiam (2018); contested 2019 Lok Sabha and 2021 assembly elections; member of party executive committee |
| Social Work | Built libraries, promoted rural education, and led charitable activities in Tamil Nadu |
| Awards | Tamil Nadu State Award for Best Lyricist (twice), Kannadasan Award (thrice), and other literary and cultural honours |
| Net Worth | Estimated ₹5–10 Crore (as of 2025) |
| Declared Assets | Over ₹1.8 crore (2021 election affidavit) |
| Passions | Rural development, Tamil culture, poetry, mentorship, and advocacy for education |
| Personality | Known for humility, simplicity, community connection, and deep love for Tamil literature |
In the Shadow of a Master: Mentorship under Vairamuthu
Mentorship that shapes a career is rare, but Snehan found it in lyricist Vairamuthu. He moved to Chennai to fulfil his high aspirations and spent five years as Vairamuthu’s assistant. The ONGC programme gave Snehan an opportunity to develop his skills and flair for native, authentic expressions.
Snehan took up editing the literary magazine “Ilanthendral” during this time, which further honed his literary sensibilities and helped him find his voice.
Entry into Tamil Cinema: Finding Purpose in Poetry
He received his first break as a lyricist in a film titled Putham Puthu Poove, which did not receive a theatrical release. He did not lose heart and went on to create his first notable projects, such as Penngal (2000) and Kandein Seethaiyai (2001). The song “Avaravar Vazhkaiyil” sung in the film “Pandavar Bhoomi” (2001) was its turning point. This helped Snehan establish himself as a big name.
Snehan’s lyrics are marked by the imagery, difficulties, happiness and sadness of rural life, which is his trademark. His lyrics often blend the spiritual with the everyday, creating poetic yet accessible works of song.
Prolific Career: Over 2,500 Songs and Unforgettable Melodies
By 2025, Snehan would have written over 2500 songs for more than 750 Tamil films. He has worked with composers like Harris Jayaraj, Yuvan Shankar Raja and Ameer.
Notable Songs
- “Chumma Chumma” from Charlie Chaplin (2002)
- “Aarariro” from Raam (2005)
- “Kalyanamdhaan Kattikittu” from Saamy (2003)
- “Avaravar Vazhkaiyil” from Pandavar Bhoomi (2001)
His lyrics have contributed to some of the most emotionally resonant and widely sung tracks in Tamil cinema, earning accolades from critics and masses alike.
Literary Prowess: A Poet at Heart
Snehan’s achievements go well beyond film lyrics. He is a published poet, deeply devoted to Tamil literature, with several acclaimed poetry collections to his name:
- Mudhal Adhyayam
- Innum Pengal Azhaga Irukkirargal
- Ippadium Irukkalam
- Puthagam
His poetry often uses simple yet profound language, championing rural themes, nature, love, and social justice. He is an active mentor for young poets, often championing the next generation of Tamil literary voices.
Foray into Acting: A Versatile Talent
Not content with just writing, Snehan has acted in several Tamil films, both in lead and supporting roles. Notable performances include:
- “Yogi” (2009)
- “Uyarthiru 420”
His transition from lyricist to actor was seamless, and his roles have been lauded for their authenticity and emotional depth.
Bigg Boss and Mainstream Fame
After going into Bigg Boss Tamil Season 1 (2017), Kamal Haasan’s contestant became popular as Snehan. His honesty, sense of humour and emotional openness earned him scores of fans and earned him the first runner-up. He came back to the show Bigg Boss Ultimate (2022), which further made him a household name.
Being on Bigg Boss allowed people to see Snehan beyond his lyrics. From his humour, warmth, and resilience, to forming a bond with other contestants, he displayed it all.
Political Career and Social Advocacy
Snehan’s passion for social change led him to politics. In 2018, he joined Kamal Haasan’s Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM) and contested the 2019 Lok Sabha and 2021 Tamil Nadu legislative assembly elections. While electoral wins eluded him, his campaigns emphasised rural upliftment, literacy, Tamil culture, and honest governance.
He continues to serve on MNM’s executive committee, speaking up for grassroots development and transparency.
Social Initiatives
- Building and supporting rural libraries
- Promoting education in underserved areas
- Advocating for Tamil language and literature
- Spearheading numerous charitable activities in villages
Snehan’s social work echoes his deep empathy for rural communities and his belief in the transformative power of education.
Awards and Recognition
Snehan’s contributions have been recognised with numerous prestigious honours:
- Tamil Nadu State Award for Best Lyricist (twice)
- Kannadasan Award (three times)
- Bharathi, Kamban, M.G.R., Avvai, Netaji, and Abdul Kalam Awards
- Honoured by various Tamil literary and cultural organisations
These awards celebrate his artistry, dedication, and the widespread impact of his words.
Personal Life: Staying Rooted Amidst Fame
Despite the limelight and success, Snehan remains grounded. He married Kannika Ravi, a television actress, on July 29, 2021. The couple, as of 2025, does not have children. Snehan is known for his approachable personality, humility, and deep connections with his community.
Net Worth: Estimated between ₹5–10 Crore
Assets Declared (2021): Over ₹1.8 crore
Snehan’s appreciation for simplicity and rural life continues to shape his daily activities, whether in supporting social causes or nurturing young creative talents.
Snehan’s Enduring Legacy
Snehan represents the modern artist who seamlessly blends creative expression with real-world impact. His lyrics and poems offer solace and strength to millions, while his activism seeks to bring tangible change to rural Tamil Nadu. Whether in a song, a classroom, or a community meeting, his voice carries empathy, humility, and hope.
Lesser-Known Facts About Snehan
- Snehan’s songwriting style was profoundly shaped by his years under Vairamuthu.
- Many of his poems and lyrics feature vivid rural landscapes, reflecting a love for nature.
- He repeatedly mentors youth as a motivational speaker, inspiring perseverance.
- His artistic journey began from a place of struggle and rejection, fortifying his resolve.
- Snehan’s songs often interweave Tamil folk rhythms and stories from village life.
- He has a strong literary side, publishing essays and books on love, society, and politics.
- Despite his fame, he insists on authenticity, whether in writing, acting, or activism.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Snehan
1. Who is Snehan?
Snehan (birth name: Sivaselvam) is a Tamil lyricist, poet, actor, social worker, and politician, celebrated for penning over 2,500 songs in 750+ Tamil films and his active engagement in social and political causes.
2. What are Snehan’s major achievements?
He has won the Tamil Nadu State Award for Best Lyricist twice, multiple Kannadasan Awards, and numerous honours for poetry and public service.
3. How did Snehan begin his career?
Snehan started as an assistant to lyricist Vairamuthu and editor of the literary monthly “Ilanthendral” before debuting as a film lyricist in the early 2000s.
4. Has Snehan acted in films?
Yes, Snehan has acted in movies like “Yogi” and “Uyarthiru 420,” earning praise for his credible performances.
5. What role did Snehan play in politics?
He joined Kamal Haasan’s party, Makkal Needhi Maiam, in 2018 and has since contested elections while advocating for rural and educational development.
6. Is Snehan involved in literature apart from film lyrics?
Absolutely; he is a prolific poet with several published collections and a mentor for emerging Tamil writers.
7. What is Snehan’s personal life like?
He’s married to actress Kannika Ravi, remains closely connected to his rural roots, and is known for his humility and community spirit.
8. How did Snehan fare in reality television?
He was the first runner-up in Bigg Boss Tamil Season 1 and a contestant in Bigg Boss Ultimate, widely loved for his transparent and genuine demeanour.
9. What are Snehan’s main causes and passions?
Rural development, education advocacy, Tamil cultural promotion, and charity remain his top focuses.
10. What makes Snehan’s lyrics special?
Their ability to blend rural realism, poetic beauty, and universal emotions makes them resonate with audiences of all backgrounds.