Master Manjunath is best known for his iconic role as Swami in the TV series Malgudi Days (1987) and in its film version, Swami And Friends. He also played the role of young Vijay Deenanath Chauhan in Amitabh Bachchan’s Agneepath (1990)
Early Life of Master Manjunath
Manjunath Nayaker was born on December 23, 1976, in Bangalore, Karnataka. He began his acting career at the age of three. He quickly became a familiar face in the Indian film industry. Manjunath pursued his education alongside his acting career. He completed his Bachelor of Arts degree in English from Mysore University. He also has a Master of Arts degree in Sociology from Bangalore University. Manjunath also holds a diploma in cinematography and completed the CA Foundation course.
Malgudi Days
Manjunath’s most memorable role came in 1987 when he portrayed Swami in the television series “Malgudi Days,” based on the works of R.K. Narayan. The series, directed by Shankar Nag, was shot during his school vacation in 1985-86 and telecast in 1987.
His portrayal of Swami earned him national and international recognition, including six international awards, one national award, and a state award. The series remains a classic in Indian television history and is fondly remembered by audiences. He reprised his role in its film version, Swami And Friends.
Other Work
Master Manjunath’s filmography is extensive, with notable performances across various languages. Some of his most memorable films include “Ajit” (1982), “Muttinantha Attige” (1982), “Tony” (1982), “Jagga” (1983), “Banker Margayya” (1983), “Nodi Swamy Navirodu Hige” (1983), “Utsav” (1984), “Raktha Tilaka” (1984), “Avala Antaranga” (1984), “Ranadheera” (1988), and “Swati Kiranam” (1992).
In 1990 Manjunath played the role of young Vijay Deenanath Chauhan, a character later portrayed by Amitabh Bachchan in “Agneepath.” The 1992 Telugu film Swathi Kiranam was his last film as a child artist.
Later Life
After a successful acting career, Manjunath decided to focus on his studies. He eventually transitioned to a career in public relations. Manjunath initially worked in IT companies, including the website www.onlinebangalore.com. He later worked as a PR & Liaison professional on the Bangalore–Mysore Infrastructure Corridor Project (BMICP). Manjunath now runs his own liaison company, VIC Pvt Ltd.
In 2012 he made a comeback with the Kannada-Tamil bilingual “Chaarulatha,” followed by the Kannada film “Love In Mandya” in 2014.
Manjunath is married to athlete Swarnarekha, a sprinter and long jumper. The couple has a son named Vedanth. Despite his busy career, Manjunath has always prioritised his family and maintained a close bond with them.
Master Manjunath on IMDB
