Samuthirakani recalled that the work experience he gained under Balachander helped him in many ways while shooting Arasi and Selvi, the mega-serial telecasted in Sun TV, which were massive hits among housewives.

He notably launched a shelved film titled Uyir Nanbanukku starring Cheran, before making Unnai Charanadaindhen (2003) for S. P. B.

[8][9] He worked as an assistant director for K. Balachander in Parthale Paravasam (2001) and Poi (2006) and for Ameer in Paruthiveeran (2007).

[11][12] He gained appreciation for his acting in Velaiilla Pattadhari (2014) as Dhanush's father and in Visaranai (2016) as a police inspector.

[16] Samuthirakani's returned to directing with Naadodigal 2, a film that takes up the topic of equality.