S. J. Suryah began his career assisting directors Vasanth and Sabhapathy before making his directorial debut with Vaalee (1999), which became a massive success and established him as a filmmaker to watch. He followed it up with hits like Kushi (2000), New (2004), and Anbe Aaruyire (2005), films that blended romance, comedy, and unique storytelling. His directorial style often pushed boundaries, earning him both acclaim and controversy.
In addition to directing, Suryah transitioned into acting, where he gained recognition for his intense performances in films such as Spyder (2017), Mersal (2017), and Maanaadu (2021). His ability to portray complex characters with depth and charisma has made him a sought-after actor. Over the years, he has balanced his dual careers as director and actor, while also contributing as a lyricist, playback singer, and philanthropist.