Panchanathan Arunachalam (22 March 1941 – 9 August 2016) was a multifaceted personality in Tamil cinema, known for his contributions as a writer, director, producer, and lyricist. He was deeply influenced and mentored by the renowned poet Kannadasan, who was also his uncle. Over his career, Arunachalam wrote many memorable lyrics and screenplays that left a lasting impact on Tamil film music and storytelling.

He established his own production company, P. A. Arts, through which he produced several films that were well received by audiences. His work often blended strong narratives with compelling music, helping to shape the golden era of Tamil cinema. Panchu Arunachalam’s legacy continues through his son, Subbu Panchu Arunachalam, who is an actor and dubbing artist in the Tamil film industry, carrying forward the family’s creative tradition.

In 2004, Panchu Arunachalam attempted a comeback as a director with a planned project titled Ganesha, starring actor Cheran in the lead role. Unfortunately, the film never came to fruition. Despite this, his contributions to Tamil cinema as a writer and producer remain highly respected, and he is remembered as a significant figure who helped shape the industry during his time.