Karthi is the younger brother of actor Vijay, another prominent figure in Tamil cinema. He graduated with a degree in commerce from Loyola College in Chennai. Before entering the film industry, Karthi worked as a marketing executive. His entry into cinema was facilitated by his brother Vijay, who helped him secure a role in the 2001 film "Azhagam." Although the film didn't perform well at the box office, it marked the beginning of Karthi's career.

Karthi is known for his versatility as an actor, and his ability to portray a wide range of roles. He has won several awards for his performances, including the Filmfare Award for Best Actor and the Vijay Award for Best Actor.

Here’s the secret: Karthi films rarely arrive with "pan-Indian" hype trains. They arrive quietly, then explode.