N. Viswanathan

Biography

Narayanswamy Viswanathan (18 July 1929 – 17 November 2010), popularly known as Calcutta Viswanathan, was an Indian actor, academic, and public intellectual who made a lasting impact on both Indian cinema and education. Known for his refined personality, eloquence, and distinctive pipe-smoking style, he appeared in nearly 100 films across Bengali, Tamil, and English cinema over a career spanning four decades.

Early Life and Education

Viswanathan was born into a Tamil family in Vellore, Tamil Nadu. At a young age, he moved to Calcutta (now Kolkata), where he completed his education at St. Xavier’s College. His academic brilliance and command over language later earned him a position as a professor of English at the same institution, where he taught for more than 40 years.

He was widely admired for his fluency in English and Bengali and was particularly noted for his British accent. Apart from teaching, he was an accomplished public speaker who represented India in debates and won several accolades. He also had a brief association with Doordarshan, Kolkata.

Entry into Cinema

While working as a college professor, Viswanathan received an opportunity to act in Punascha (1961), directed by Mrinal Sen. The film received national recognition and brought him critical acclaim.

This was followed by a major role in Kanchenjungha (1962), directed by Satyajit Ray. The film was Ray’s first original screenplay and first colour film. Viswanathan’s sophisticated urban image impressed Ray, who considered him ideal for modern, intellectual characters.

These two films established Viswanathan as a respected actor in Bengali cinema.

Film Career

After his early success, Viswanathan received offers from the Bengali, Tamil, and English film industries. His career eventually spanned nearly 100 films over 40 years.

He entered Tamil cinema in the 1970s and appeared in notable films such as:

Lalitha

Mogam Muppadhu Varusham

Moondru Mudichu

Kavari Maan

Moodu Pani

He often portrayed educated, dignified, and authoritative characters, bringing realism and depth to supporting roles. His signature pipe-smoking style became one of his most recognizable traits on screen.

Theatre Contributions

Viswanathan was also deeply involved in theatre. He was associated with Utpal Dutt’s renowned People’s Little Theatre (PLT) and later founded his own troupe named Calcutta Players, which promoted quality stage performances and serious acting.

Personality and Reputation

Viswanathan was respected not only for his acting talent but also for his intellectual stature. He balanced his academic career and film life with remarkable discipline. His colleagues admired him for his humility, professionalism, and dedication to both teaching and art.

Death

After suffering from prolonged illness, Narayanswamy Viswanathan passed away on 17 November 2010 at his residence on Sarat Bose Road, Kolkata, at the age of 81.

He is survived by his wife Paramita, a son, and a granddaughter. His son, Ashoke Viswanathan, is a filmmaker.