Anandan

Walking Encyclopedia of Tamil Cinema aka Anandan; Mani was his birth name. He was born on January 1, 1926, in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. When he was in school, his name was Anandakrishnan; later, Anandan became his legal name. He was a photographer and film historian. He studied at Quaide Millath Arts College, worked with drama troupes, and wrote dialogue for plays. Later, Anandan was to be a cameraman and became an assistant to C. J. Mohan. He also worked as a news reporter for the Film Chamber and collected information about actors, producers, and directors. He started taking pictures for the magazine Film News, and then the pen name Film News Anandan became a part of his name.

He worked as the film's public relations officer. He also had small acting roles in films like Policekaran Magal and Bommai. Anandan got married to Sivagami and had two daughters and a son named Diamond Babu, who followed in his footsteps as a public relations officer. Anandan was honored for his contributions to Tamil cinema. He received the Kala Peedam award, the Kalaimaamani title from the Tamil Nadu State Government, and the Kalai Selvam title from the South Indian Artist Association. He was also honored at the Golden Jubilee of the Film Chamber and received the Vijay Award. Sadly, Anandan passed away on March 21, 2016, after being hospitalized for breathing problems.