When we think of film
stars, we often imagine their glamorous lifestyles, luxurious homes, and
expensive cars. But owning a private jet has always been the ultimate
status symbol. Surprisingly, the first actress in India to own one wasn’t
Nayanthara, Aishwarya Rai, or Trisha Krishnan—it was the legendary K. R.
Vijaya.
South’s Popular Actress
K. R. Vijaya
K. R. Vijaya remains one
of the most iconic figures in South Indian cinema. Known for her graceful
screen presence and memorable performances, she ruled the industry for decades.
Recently, her sister K. R. Vatsala revealed in an interview that Vijaya
lived a life of luxury during her peak years, including traveling to film
shoots in her own private jet.
Flying to Shoots in Style
According to reports, K.
R. Vijaya often used her personal aircraft to commute for film shoots. She even
enjoyed other luxury facilities such as ships during her career. Despite this
lavish lifestyle, those close to her emphasize that she remained humble and
simple at heart, never displaying arrogance despite her success.
Journey from Age 15 to
Superstar
- Debut: Karpagam (1963) at just
15 years old
- Worked across Tamil, Telugu,
Malayalam, and Kannada cinema
- Shared screen space with legends like
Sivaji Ganesan, M. G. Ramachandran, N. T. Rama Rao, and Kamal Haasan
Her versatility and dedication quickly made her one of the most respected actresses of her generation.
Among the Highest-Paid
Actresses
By the 1970s, K. R.
Vijaya was counted among the highest-paid actresses in South Indian cinema,
with fees comparable to leading male stars. This cemented her position as one
of the most influential personalities in Indian film history.
‘Punnagai Arasi’ – Queen
of Smiles
Fans lovingly called her ‘Punnagai
Arasi’ (Queen of Smiles). Her calm smile, divine aura, and frequent
portrayal of goddess roles gave her a unique identity.
- Acted in over 500 films
- Appeared in several TV serials
popular in India and Sri Lanka
Her career spanned six
decades, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire.
Personal Life
- Real Name: Deivanayaki
- Born in Chennai to Malayali parents Ramachandra
Nair and Kalyani
- Married businessman Madathil
Velayuthan in 1966 (he passed away in 2016)
- Has a daughter named Hemalatha
Final Thoughts
K. R. Vijaya’s story is not just about stardom but also about breaking barriers. Owning a private jet in the 1970s was unheard of for an actress, making her a true trailblazer. With her luxurious lifestyle, unmatched talent, and humble personality, she remains one of the most celebrated icons in Indian cinema