Rakesh, a name making waves in the Tamil film industry, is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. Born in MGR Nagar, Chennai and a resident of Taramani (Near to Velachery) for the past 25 years, Rakesh’s journey to becoming a renowned stunt director is impressive.
Rakesh’s roots in the film industry run deep. His father, Elangovan, was a stuntman, and Rakesh’s childhood was steeped in the vibrant world of cinema. Growing up surrounded by the adrenaline and excitement of fight sequence film shoots, Rakesh developed an early fascination with action sequences. This environment naturally steered him toward a career in stunt direction.
Rakesh pursued a degree in Visual Communication at Loyola College, Nungambakkam, graduating in 2014. His specialization in writing and direction provided him with a solid foundation in storytelling and visual aesthetics. However, his heart was set on stunt direction—a field that demands not only creativity but also physical prowess and technical skill.
Embarking on his career in the film industry, Rakesh initially worked as an assistant cameraman. However, his true calling lay in stunt direction. He joined the stunt union in 2015, a significant milestone in his career. This period also marked the beginning of his association with notable stunt masters. He started working with Anbariv Master, honing his skills until 2018, before joining forces with Vicky Master. During this phase, he travelled extensively and gained invaluable experience. After that he joined hands with Supreme Sundar Master.
Rakesh’s dedication and hard work paid off, allowing him to refine his technical skills and learn various aspects of stunt direction. That was the beginning of a new chapter as a stunt director. Rakesh’s career as a stunt Director began with the film “Thozha Cheguvaroa,” followed by “Rajaputhiran.” He has also worked on several films awaiting release, including “Varame Saapam” starring Srikanth, “Thar” Staring Actor Aari, “Antha 7 Naatkal” and “Theerakathai”. Transitioning into stunt direction, Rakesh has already made a significant impact. From January to September 2024, he has directed stunts for five movies, showcasing his ability to handle multiple projects within a short span.
Rakesh’s journey from a passionate observer of cinema to a successful stunt director is a remarkable achievement. His recent designation as a stunt Director in January 2024 is a testament to his hard work and dedication. With a growing portfolio of films and an impressive track record, Rakesh is poised to become one of the leading stunt directors in Tamil cinema.
Rakesh’s journey to becoming a successful stunt director has been marked by numerous struggles, both personal and professional. It is only now, as he reflects on his achievements, that he truly grasps the extent of his father Elangovan’s sacrifices. The hard work and dedication required in the stunt industry have become all too clear to him, offering a profound appreciation for the grueling demands of the profession. Through his own trials and experiences, Rakesh has gained a deep understanding of the relentless effort and commitment that go into making each stunt a reality, shedding light on the immense challenges his father faced in his own career
As he continues to push boundaries and innovate in the realm of action sequences, Rakesh’s story serves as an inspiration for aspiring stunt professionals. His blend of creativity, technical expertise, and relentless drive underscores the dynamic nature of the film industry and the role of stunt directors in bringing cinematic visions to life.
