Panchu Arunachalam (18 June 1941 – 9 August 2016) was an Indian screenwriter, movie director, producer and lyricist. He was known for writing the movies "Kazhugu" (1981) and "Paayum Puli" (1983). He was also known for directing the movie "Manamagale Vaa" (1988). He was born in Sirukoodalpatti, Karaikudi, Tamil Nadu, India.