| | Known For | Example Item Number(s) & Film(s) | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Jayamalini | "Queen From The South"; acted in over 500 films across South Indian languages | A pioneer of the genre in the 70s and 80s, creating a sensation with her dance moves. | | Silk Smitha | A legendary siren of the South; known for her powerful on-screen presence and tragic personal story | A staple item girl of her era who also demonstrated strong acting prowess in films like Moondram Pirai . | | Jyothi Lakshmi | Known for her waist-flauting moves; a yesteryear siren | Performed item numbers with leading stars like Vikram in Sethu and Rajinikanth in Muthu . | | Disco Shanti | Known for her disco moves in an era when disco was in fashion; a contemporary of Silk Smitha | A competitor to Silk Smitha, famous for her energetic dance numbers. | | Jyothi Meena | Remembered for her item numbers in the 1990s; daughter of Jyothi Lakshmi | Appeared in item numbers alongside Ajith Kumar, Prabhu, and R. Sarathkumar. | | Mumaith Khan | Started as a dance extra and became a well-known item girl in South Indian cinema | A name to reckon with in the glamour industry, having performed in numerous item numbers. | | Nanditha Jennifer | Made several appearances in item numbers in the mid-2000s | First appeared in an item number in Vasanth's Yai Nee Romba Azhaga Irukey (2002). | | Tamannaah | A leading actress who has performed in several memorable special songs in recent years. | "Kaavaalaa" from Rajinikanth's Jailer , which crossed 100 million views on YouTube within weeks of its release. |

A classic item number that dominates the final part of the film, featuring Mumaith Khan, renowned for its lavish production.

| Song Title | Film | Special Appearance | Music Director | Why it’s Legendary | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | | Vandicholai Chinraasu (1994) | Silk Smitha | A. R. Rahman | The first major crossover item song. | | Petta Rap | Kadhalan (1994) | Prabhu Deva (as dancer) | A. R. Rahman | Revolutionized dance choreography. | | Azhagana Ratchasiye | Mudhalvan (1999) | Sridevi Vijaykumar | A. R. Rahman | The "Queen" entrance remains iconic. | | Kokku Para Para | Ghilli (2004) | Mumaith Khan | Vidyasagar | The turning point. Mumaith Khan’s fiery moves made this a staple in every Tamil wedding. |

This decade saw star heroines like and Simran performing single special songs. However, the true explosion happened with the arrival of Mumaith Khan . Often dubbed the "Queen of Tamil Item Numbers," her dance in Kadhalan (“Naka Mukka”) changed the game. Directors realized that a well-choreographed item song could guarantee a "House Full" board on opening weekend.

The phrase "Tamil item link" does not refer to a single specific person or "proper paper." In the context of Tamil cinema, it generally relates to "item songs"

Silk Smitha became an irreplaceable box-office magnet. Her presence in a song could save a failing movie.

: Using glamorous performers, elaborate sets, and flashing lights to heighten the film's sensual appeal.

In the 2000s, the trend shifted. Instead of relying solely on specialized dancers, leading mainstream actresses began appearing in these high-energy tracks. This transition elevated the production value and mainstream appeal of the songs, turning them into highly anticipated cinematic events. Iconic Artists and Filmographies

( Villadhi Villain ) – Featured Silk Smitha, a legendary figure in this genre.

Some well-known choreographers who have worked on Tamil item songs include: