His comedic portrayals have been critiqued as using the persona of a misunderstood, mistreated Subaltern rogue, often subject to on-screen violence and ridicule in the style of slapstick comedy. His first film as a lead actor, Imsai Arasan 23rd Pulikesi (2006), also achieved commercial and critical success.
His popularity led to his media-coined nickname, Vaigai Puyal, referring to the river that flows through his hometown Madurai. Rajendar's En Thangai Kalyani at the career peak of the Goundamani- Senthil duo. Vadivelu has received awards in the Best Comedian category for his performances in various films, such as Kaalam Maari Pochu (1996), Chandramukhi (2005), and Kathavarayan (2008).
He has at least 200 credits to his filmography and several awards including three Tamil Nadu State Film Awards for Best Comedian. Kumaravadivel Natarajan known professionally as Vadivelu, is an Indian actor, comedian and occasional playback singer, having acted mainly in Tamil movies.
