Vijay Sethupathi's Candid Take on Money: 'Basic Like Food, Masks Fall Off for It'
In a refreshingly honest conversation, acclaimed actor Vijay Sethupathi has opened up about his unapologetic pursuit of money, describing it as a fundamental necessity comparable to food. The National Award-winning star, known for his unconventional roles and grounded persona, explained why financial security remains a driving force in his life even after achieving considerable success in Indian cinema.
Financial Insecurity as Motivation
Sethupathi revealed that early financial struggles shaped his perspective profoundly. 'I have seen how people's masks fall off for money,' he stated candidly during an interview with Gulte Pro. The actor recalled how basic aspirations—owning a second-hand apartment, purchasing an old car, and escaping the monthly rent pressure—once fueled his work ethic.
Now, more than fifteen years into a career that has redefined success in Indian cinema, Sethupathi reflected on his evolving relationship with wealth. 'Money is ultimate. Everybody needs money. It gives security, and it brings happiness. My relationship with money hasn't changed, I still chase it,' he asserted.
Work vs. Money: Finding Balance
When asked whether work or money brings greater happiness, Sethupathi offered nuanced insight. 'Work gives more happiness. But we are comparing happiness with money, which is not right. Money is basic, like food. We need it for everything,' he explained.
The actor emphasized that his professional satisfaction comes from creative moments during work. 'When you are concentrating on your work, and suddenly you surprise yourself with a thought or an idea, that feeling is something else,' he described. 'You discuss it with your director or co-actor, and sometimes entire scenes come from those moments. That gives immense happiness.'
Sethupathi noted this joy transcends acting, recalling similar fulfillment from his pre-fame jobs as an accountant and telephone booth attendant. 'Wherever you go, if you find happiness in your work, you are making yourself happy. I have always done that,' he shared.
Philanthropy and Purposeful Wealth
Beyond personal comfort, Sethupathi highlighted how financial success enables meaningful impact. 'The happiness you get from work and the happiness money gives are different. With money, you can take care of your family. You can help people,' he said.
The actor disclosed running a free employment service for five to six years, spending approximately Rs 1.5 lakh monthly. He also operates a free clothing store where people can obtain garments without payment. 'By earning money, I can do all this. I can buy what I want, support people, and even produce films,' he explained.
Ethical Pursuit and Future Projects
Sethupathi addressed the ethical dimension of wealth accumulation, stating, 'Chasing money is not wrong at all. How you chase it and what your intention is—that defines who you are.' He acknowledged financial risks taken as a producer, including returning his salary for certain films to ensure their release.
The actor will next appear in Gandhi Talks alongside Arvind Swamy, Aditi Rao Hydari, and Siddharth Jadhav. Directed by Kishore P. Bekal, the film is scheduled for theatrical release on January 30.
