Cable Sankar: The Multi-Talented Storyteller of Tamil Cinema
Cable Sankar, a name synonymous with creativity and versatility in the Tamil entertainment industry, hails from Tanjavore, Tamil Nadu. Although he later moved to Chennai, where his passion for the entertainment world flourished, his roots in the artistic traditions of his native land have always influenced his work. Over the years, Sankar has established himself as a business head, writer, film director, singer, actor, movie reviewer, trade analyst, distributor, exhibitor, and OTT platform owner. However, at the heart of his multifaceted career, he remains a writer, and it is through his writing that he has made the most profound impact.
Cable Sankar began his career in the cinema world as a distributor and exhibitor, which provided him valuable insights into the business of filmmaking. His understanding of the market and audience preferences laid the foundation for his later ventures. But beyond the business, Sankar’s true calling was storytelling. He soon became known for his exceptional skills as a screenplay writer, quietly contributing to numerous films. While his friends’ movies benefited from his creative inputs, Sankar often avoided taking credit, highlighting his generous and selfless nature.
A man of vision, He has always been passionate about the entertainment industry. “I am completely into the entertainment industry. Yes, it’s my passion, but at the same time, I see it as a business. Without money, you can’t survive, right?” he said with a laugh, perfectly encapsulating his pragmatic yet passionate approach to his work.
The Writer Who Captivates Readers
Though Sankar wears many hats, it is his writing that has truly resonated with audiences. He has penned over 65 short stories, known in Tamil as “Siru Kathaikal,” each of which showcases his mastery of storytelling. His short Story bundle, “Lemon Tree and Two Shot Takela”, was a resounding success, selling over a thousand copies upon publication. This marked the beginning of his illustrious career in writing.
Between 2019 and 2022, Cable Sankar wrote four novels that were met with widespread acclaim:
- Nan Sharmi Vairam
- 24 Shalanangalin EN
- Bermuda – a novel that delves into the complexities of relationships and adultery between men and women
- Bramma – set against the backdrop of the cable TV industry
Each of these novels struck a chord with readers, selling more than 5,000 copies and solidifying Sankar’s reputation as a skilled novelist with the ability to tap into the emotional and social fabric of his audience.
Ahead of His Time: A Visionary in Digital Media
Cable Sankar’s foresight and innovative thinking were evident long before the digital revolution took over the Indian entertainment industry. In the early 2000s, Sankar ran a streaming website for short films, a concept that was far ahead of its time in India. Though the project only lasted for four years, it was a ground breaking endeavor in an era when internet access was still in its infancy in the country. Cable Sankar’s early foray into digital streaming anticipated the massive boom that would follow years later.
Staying true to his forward-thinking nature, he is currently running an OTT platform called OTT Plus, a space for diverse content in an age where digital media dominates the entertainment landscape. His ability to adapt to changing times while staying true to his passion for storytelling highlights his visionary approach to his craft.
A Cinematic Contributor: From Dialogue Writing to Directing
In addition to his novels and short stories, Cable Sankar has made significant contributions to Tamil cinema. He was the dialogue writer for the hit movie “Kalakalappu”, which earned him widespread recognition for his witty and sharp dialogues. His talent for crafting engaging conversations and scenes translated well into film direction as well.
Sankar directed two films, “Thottal Thodarum” and 6 “Aththiyaayam”, both of which showcased his skills behind the camera. Though directing was another avenue for Sankar to tell stories, he continued to remain humble about his achievements, always crediting his team and collaborators for their roles in his success.
A Man with a Clear Vision and a Kind Heart
Despite his many accomplishments, Cable Sankar is known for his down-to-earth personality and his willingness to help others. He is regarded as a friendly and approachable individual, always ready to lend a helping hand to those in need. His generosity, combined with his clear vision for both his personal and professional life, has earned him immense respect in the industry.
Cable Sankar’s journey is a testament to his multi-talented nature and his unwavering passion for the world of entertainment. Whether as a writer, director, business head, or OTT platform owner, he continues to push the boundaries of creativity while maintaining a grounded approach to his work.
