Decades after living in Chennai, Suriya and Jyotika relocated to Mumbai after the pandemic. The couple now primarily live in Mumbai with their children, Diya and Dev. In an interview, the South star revealed that the move helped in Jyotika's career revival and offered a more grounded and normal lifestyle to their kids. “I'll be very open. Jyotika shifted to Chennai when she was 18 or 19 and lived there for 27 years. She was with me, my family, and she gave up her career, friends, and her Bandra lifestyle. After COVID, there was a need for change. Her career had plateaued, and the writing felt repetitive. We started 2D Entertainment because there was a lack of women-centric films,” Suriya told The Hollywood Reporter India.
He added, “Jyotika often faces greater challenges. While I always work with great directors, she frequently collaborates with first-time filmmakers. Since our move, she has worked on diverse projects like Srikanth, Shaitaan, Dabba Cartel, and Kaathal: The Core, which feature more interesting writing.”
Suriya talked about the challenges faced by Jyotika and how the move has made her a happier person both personally and professionally. The actor said, “She is happy spending time in Mumbai and reconnecting with her parents. I've come to realise that, just like men, women also need vacations, friendships, financial independence, respect, and time for fitness. Why should we take away her time with her family? It's important to shift our mindset from ‘I, me, and myself.' I'm glad to see her growth as an actress, and I hope she finds even more beautiful opportunities.”
Suriya also shared how living in Mumbai has improved his family life, allowing him to enjoy basic things with his children such as going for drives or taking walks in the park. Suriya said, “My kids were enrolled in an IB school, and there are only a couple of them in Chennai. It's a blessing that they excel in their studies. We saw great opportunities in Mumbai, which prompted our move. I balance my time between Chennai and Mumbai, taking at least 10 days a month off from shooting. During those days, I disconnect completely—no work, no phone calls—just peace in Mumbai.”
Suriya and Jyotika met on the set of Poovellam Kettuppar in 1999. After dating for a few years, the couple got married in 2006. They welcomed their daughter Diya and son Dev in 2007 and 2010 respectively.