Sandow M.M.A. Chinnappa Devar

Biography

Sandow M. M. A. Chinnappa Devar (28 June 1915 – 8 September 1978) was an Indian film producer, writer, and actor who worked mainly in Tamil cinema. He was the founder of Devar Films and was known for producing successful films featuring animals, especially stories highlighting the bond between humans and animals.

Born as M. M. A. Chinnappa Devar in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India, he developed an interest in physical culture and earned the title "Sandow" due to his strong physique, inspired by legendary bodybuilder Eugen Sandow. Before entering cinema, he worked in theatre and later appeared as an actor in films.

Devar began his film career as an actor and later became a successful producer. He established Devar Films in 1956 and produced numerous popular Tamil films, many starring M. G. Ramachandran. Their collaboration produced several major successes and helped strengthen MGR's popularity among audiences.

Some of his notable productions include Thaai Sollai Thattathe, Vettaikaaran, Dheiva Cheyal, and Haathi Mere Saathi. The Hindi film Haathi Mere Saathi, directed by M. A. Thirumugam and starring Rajesh Khanna, became a landmark success and remains one of the most popular animal-themed films in Indian cinema.

Chinnappa Devar was admired for his ability to combine entertainment with emotional storytelling. His films often featured themes of compassion, loyalty, family values, and the special relationship between humans and animals.

He passed away on 8 September 1978 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India. Sandow M. M. A. Chinnappa Devar remains remembered as one of the most successful and distinctive producers in the history of Tamil cinema.