He is best known for moderating debate talk shows, known as 'patti mandrams', which have been airing on Tamil Television Channels for quite a long time (for over three decades).
He is credited for taking social themes to the masses and has so far moderated over 12,000 debates programmes across the globe.
His modest approach in speaking and life has earned him a large reputation among Tamil-speaking people throughout the world.
[3][4] Born as the ninth child in a family of 12 to A. Sundaram and S. Pakkiam, Pappaiah had his job cut out as his father was a mill worker and did not have the wherewithal to financially support his studies.
Arasu, his drawing master at the American College Higher Secondary School, taught him the skills.