The Chocolate Hero of Kollywood: Abhinay's Journey
- FC Team
- Nov 12, 2025
- 2 min read
Updated: Jan 9
The Chocolate Hero of the early 2000s saw Abhinay debut alongside Actor Dhanush in Selvaraghavan's Thulluvatho Ilamai. Although Abhinay could not storm Kollywood, he achieved significant success in media and advertisements.

A Gentleman in the Industry
Chennai 600028's Vijayalakshmi recently shared her experience of working with him on an advertisement. She referred to him as a gentleman for being a dignified co-star. Initially, she felt apprehensive about sharing an apartment with him in Mumbai for the ad shoot. However, she eventually found a passing friend in him.
Vijayalakshmi also mentioned how Abhinay leaned towards alcohol to bury the agonies of being the sole provider for his family. This insight sheds light on the pressures that many actors face behind the scenes.

A Struggle for Recognition
During the Covid pandemic, Abhinay plastered his presence across YouTube. He aggressively gave interviews and promoted himself, hoping to give Kollywood another try. His interview with child artist Kalyani Rohit went viral. In it, he expressed his struggle to connect with producers and ask for work.
Despite gaining momentary traction, this episode never evolved beyond a coffee table discussion. His struggles with mental health and alcoholism appeared to persist. Tragically, Arvind passed away due to a liver condition on November 10th.
The Curse of Supporting Actors
Abhinay's story is a testament to the ongoing curse of supporting actors, often referred to as second heroes. These individuals are rarely given the opportunity to shine as lead actors in the future. Very few actors have broken this mold, including Arvind Samy, Abbas, and Vijay Sethupathi.
The Emotional Toll of Fame
The journey of an actor is not just about fame and success. It often involves emotional turmoil and personal battles. For Abhinay, the pressures of the industry weighed heavily on him. The expectations to perform and succeed can lead to feelings of inadequacy and despair.
The Importance of Mental Health
Mental health is a crucial topic that deserves attention. Many actors, like Abhinay, face immense pressure. The industry can be unforgiving, and the fear of failure can lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms. It's essential for those in the industry to seek help and support.
A Call for Change
The narrative surrounding supporting actors needs to change. They deserve recognition and opportunities to showcase their talents. The industry must evolve to provide a platform for these actors to shine.
Conclusion
Abhinay's journey reflects the struggles faced by many in the Tamil film industry. His story serves as a reminder of the importance of mental health and the need for change within the industry. As fans of Kollywood, it's vital to support all actors, regardless of their status.
In the end, the phrase "the Chocolate Hero" encapsulates not just Abhinay's charm but also the bittersweet reality of his career. His experiences resonate with many and highlight the need for a more inclusive and supportive film industry.
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