If you are looking to explore Meena’s classic filmography, these films are essential viewing, showcasing her best performances from the 1990s to the early 2000s: 1. Anbulla Rajinikanth (1984) – The Child Star Drama Role: Rosy

Tamil actress (Meena Durairaj) is a rare talent who successfully transitioned from a beloved child artist in the 1980s to a leading superstar in the 1990s and 2000s. Known for her exceptionally expressive eyes and natural acting style, she became a household name across South India, particularly through her legendary pairings with superstars like Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan.

Meena stopped playing lead heroine roles post-2005 (her last major hit being Mettukudi ), but she transitioned into powerful mother roles in films like Kannathil Muthamittal (2002 – Mani Ratnam) and Drishyam (Malayalam). Yet, for vintage lovers, her 90s filmography is a time capsule of the golden era of Tamil cinema.

Her filmography is filled with iconic performances. She won the Tamil Nadu State Film Award for Best Actress for her role in (1993), and delivered memorable performances in films like Muthu (1995) opposite Rajinikanth, which earned her a Filmfare Award. Other notable films include the blockbuster Drishyam (2013) and its sequel, where she played a pivotal role.

The film showcases her ability to handle heavy, emotionally demanding social dramas with immense dignity. 3. The Family Dramas Ejamaan (1993)

Kamal Haasan Why watch: Kamal Haasan plays a male nanny, but Meena plays the love interest, Karupayi . While the plot revolves around Kamal’s antics, Meena holds her own. She is hilarious, vulnerable, and delivers one of the best "disguise reveal" reactions in cinema history. This is vintage Meena at her most expressive.

Muthu is perhaps Meena’s most globally recognized film. As a spirited village girl who gets caught between a zamindar (Rajinikanth) and his servant, she delivered a performance filled with charm and acting prowess. The film was a massive blockbuster and even found success in Japan. Watch it for her chemistry with Rajinikanth and A.R. Rahman’s musical score.

Meena’s journey in Tamil cinema began long before she became a leading lady. Her early roles as a child artist showcased a natural acting ability that instantly won over audiences. Anbulla Rajinikanth (1984)

Start with Muthu (for mainstream appeal), then Ponnumani (for acting depth), and Avvai Shanmugi (for comedy).