Happiness is not a station we arrive at, most of the time it involves a matter of traveling those personal milestones you set for yourself, those silent promises you make to yourself hoping to achieve them however impossible they might be.

It's been 23 years of services to the film industry in various capacities - as a producer, distributor and an actor. And then came his political foray. But Sharat Kumar, President (AISMK) and the President of the 'Nadigar Sangam' wears all these various hats with a quiet comfort. The actor has touched his 100th film mark with the launch of 'Thalaimagan', a film produced by his wife Radikaa for Radaan. The actor-politician unwinds here in a freewheeling chat, talking about his career, politics and his personal life.

Touching the 100th film mark, does it give him a sense of achievement?

"It is surely a landmark. Considering that the days are different anactors today, and also from the advanced technology, to reach the 100-film mark is definitely a landmark. After this I'm sure I'll be a not-out batsman! But more than it being an achievement, I view it more as a beginning.

But he didn't have to struggle like others, the path was easier

“I wouldn’t say it was all served on a platter. I too had to face many hurdles, but they were of a different kind as compared to the problems faced by others in this industry. As I was from an affluent family, I didn’t have to struggle for my basic needs. I had a smooth run, as I began my career with some good producers and directors and was also accepted by the audience. This helped me to sustain and reach the 100-film mark. But yes, it's been more of the positive than the negative phases in my life."

A newspaper man, a producer, a villain, a hero, a politician. Which phase was more satisfying?

“I have done my jobs with full dedication and enthusiasm, irrespective of the nature of the job. Proper time management made my work easier. With the advent of technology like email, video conferencing etc, I don’t have to be present every time and everywhere. I can perform a part of my job from a particular place depending on my convenience. Since Parliament has fixed date and time, I can adjust my time for it”

But how does he have so much stamina for all these various activities?

We can observe cut throat competition in every field. So there is a dire need to keep ourselves updated and think differently. To accomplish this we need to be more energetic, healthy and should have a willingness to learn new things. I’ve always been health-conscious and have never missed my exercise routine."

What has his various relationships taught him?

“Every relationship is backed by a level of emotional attachment. When it comes to relationship between two people, I feel that destiny also has a role to play. Each one of my relationship has been a different learning experience for me. A couple’s relationship is based on trust and openness. This is particularly true when the couple is from a glamorous field like the film industry. All my relationships have helped me to evolve as a better human being. I share a deep emotional bonding with my wife, Radhika. We both share the same set of ideologies and goals. Just like me she is also a person of social concern and awareness.”

How important is fidelity in a relationship to him?

“In order to sustain a relationship it should be build on the foundation of trust and openness, especially when the couple are from a glamorous field like the film industry. We should lead a life based on ethics and moral values. There's nothing better than speaking the truth and creating an atmosphere of trust. “

There was this sting operation and expose of a Mumbai actor, bringing extra-marital affairs into focus yet again. How did he react to it?

A relationship between a man and a woman is their personal issue. It is not good to intrude in a person’s personal life. Every man has his own weakness and it is not fair to test someone as to how weak he is? No one knows as what exactly happened in that case. As for me, I would certainly not jeopardize my career, reputation and personal life by such a foolish act.

Back to his colleagues, how does he view Vijaykanth's entry into and Kartik's intention to join politics?

"From the 1960s Tamil film industry and politics have gone hand in hand. But when Vijaykanth stated his intention to join the political fray, I did wonder why he felt the need to do so, when there were already so many political parties. What vaccum is he trying to fill? What exactly is he dissatisfied with? What is his agenda and how would he do things differently? If he sincerely believes that his party can do something different, then fine. But it's a bold step, and he's taken a clear stand without any dilly-dallying. I appreciate him for that and wish him luck. As for Kartik, he does represent a big community in the state. And if he has taken a step it's again his privilege.

Tamil film industry and politics have gone hand in hand since 1960’s. When Vijaykanth showed his willingness to join politics, I really wondered that when there are so many political parties, why he wants to join the political fray? What is his vision? What is his agenda? If his party really want to do something different, then it was acceptable.

Coming back to films, isn't he fed up of doing the same routine stuff?

"True. I do want to do something different. But right now the market for Tamil films is good. The films are doing well, there are banks and investors willing to put in money. So as of now, I am not keen on doing experimental films. Maybe later, and then it will be with my own money."

There were some big hits in 2005 like 'Chandramukhi'. Now to what would be attribute Rajnikanth's long reign as a superstar of 30 years?

"Simple. Because he's not from Tamil Nadu! Seriously, I'm not joking. You can quote me on that - MGR, Rajni have all become superstars because they don't belong here. Every artiste is looked at communally here. And a person who doesn't belong here has the advantage of being a 'common' personality, adored by one and all. No particular community or caste can own him. Why didn't Sivaji Ganesan, despite his undoubted talent, attain superstar status? The 'outsider', as far as Tamil audiences are concerned, has a slight edge over others who have certain sections working against them. By saying this I am in no way undermining their achievements or dedication. Again, Rajni does just one film a couple of years, and that's working for him today. Familiarity breeds contempt, and rarity wins admiration! But then I'm happy that five of us, Rajni, Kamal, Vijaykanth, Satyaraj and me have been holding fort for ever two decades!

Looking back, was it a fulfilling life for him?

"Surely! I have gained a lot of experience and matured greatly as a human being too. I've grown as a person due to my varied experiences as an actor. In no other field would I have been able to gain so much experiences, and so much of interactions. We get to meet the mightiest and the lowliest. We entertain people and make them smile, even when we are tormented within ourselves. I've seen that when I'm at a temple, the love people have towards me, to interact with me. We are a gifted lot, and we have the responsibility too, to use this life more fruitfully, and to give back to the masses at least a fraction of what they have given us!"