Chennai, Dec 28 (IANS): Double Oscar winning composer A.R. Rahman said here Saturday that comedian Vivekh has always cheered him up whenever he is in low spirits and considers him a gift to Tamil filmdom.

"Lots of people tell me that my music has cheered them up, but whenever I have been down in life, I end up watching Vivekh sir's video on Youtube. It changes me completely and helps me change my focus on something else. Therefore, I feel he is a gift to Tamil industry," Rahman told reporters here.

He was speaking at the audio launch of "Nanthan Bala", which features Vivekh in the lead role.

With over two decades of experience as a comedian, Vivekh will be essaying a serious role in the film, which is being directed by R. Kannan.

He is known for his comic performances in Tamil films such as "Run", "Saamy" and "Perazhagan".

Rahman said Vivekh should extend his boundaries as an actor.

"I think he should follow what Charlie Chaplin did with his career. He should not restrict himself to the language (Tamil). He should go out and cater to the whole world. He has achieved the first step with this film, but it's time to extend his boundaries," he added.

Tamil filmmakers Mani Ratnam and K. Balachander were also present at the event.