Before becoming a major star, actor Vijay began his journey as a solo hero with the film 'Naalaiya Theerpu' at the age of 18. The film, directed by S.A. Chandrasekhar, did not achieve great success at the box office, and audience response was modest. However, Vijay's performance did not go unnoticed. He won the Best New Face Actor award from Cinema Express for his role in the movie. This early recognition helped set the stage for his later career in the Tamil film industry. Vijay, who studied at Loyola College in Chennai, balanced his education with his budding acting career. While 'Naalaiya Theerpu' may not have been a blockbuster, it marked the beginning of his path to stardom. The film remains a notable part of his filmography, as it was his first leading role. Over the years, Vijay has become one of the most popular actors in Indian cinema, with a massive fan following. This look back at his early days highlights the humble beginnings of a superstar.