Suriya says he failed every exam in 10th and 12th standard, was an average student: ‘You will get second or even third chances’

Suriya said he strongly believed that his profession as an actor is a means to take his education-based NGO to a wider set of deserving students

By: Entertainment Desk

Chennai | Updated: April 19, 2025 01:06 PM IST

2 min read

At the Retro event, Suriya announced his next film Suriya46.

With just days left for the release of Retro, Suriya’s much-anticipated collaboration with director Karthik Subbaraj, the makers held a massive trailer launch event. Prominent members of the cast and crew were in attendance at the event, which took place in Chennai. Taking to the stage, Suriya spoke about a lot of things Retro, specially emphasising on the concept of purpose, which is extensively explored in the film.

Suriya spoke about the NGO, Agaram Foundation, which sponsors the less-privileged students to complete their college degrees, and shared that they have been working for almost two decades now. “I am someone who failed in every examination in the 10th and 12th except for my board exams. I was an average student in college, and yet, I had the chance to do something in my life. I had the power to facilitate change, and it has resulted in almost 7000-8000 graduates, and counting. All of them who have been part of Agaram in the past and present, are shaping the future,” said Suriya.

ALSO READ: Retro trailer: Suriya cannot stay away from violence as he announces a ‘thrilling and dangerous’ battle. Watch

The actor, who has had his share of hits and misses in his acting career too, spoke about the importance of understanding that life is always beautiful, and one shouldn’t be bogged down by a failure or two. “Life is very beautiful, and it will give you many beautiful opportunities. You will get second or even third chances, and make use of the lovely opportunities,” said Suriya, who asked youngsters to take a leaf out of the book of Karthik Subbaraj.

“Look at Karthik, who had a career in IT, and then jumped careers to find his calling in cinema. Youngsters can take the risk, and they shouldn’t be afraid to do so. You see, passion isn’t enough. Be obsessed. Everyone has a life, and it will be beautiful,” signed off Suriya, urging his fans and the audience to come watch his latest offering, Retro, which will hit the screens on May 1.

From the homepage