The success of "Server Sundaram" ensured that Nagesh was one of the most sought-after actors in the 1960s. At the height of his career, he acted in as much as 35 movies in a single calendar year, at one time shooting six movies simultaneously. He appeared in a cameo in the 1965 mythological "Thiruvilayadal", in which he portrayed the poor, simpleton temple priest Dharumi. The soliloquy which Dharmi indulges in, within the temple precincts, is regarded as one of the unforgettable scenes of Tamil cinema. He followed the success with supporting roles in films such as "Kaadhalikka Neramillai", where he wants to direct a film under his own production house, Oho Productions (but until the climax he does not make a film), "Anbe Vaa", "Shanthi Nilayam", "Pattanathil Bhootham" and "Vietnam Veedu". He played Mohan in "Major Chandrakanth", which was a popular hit and won for its lead actor Sundararajan the nickname "Major" Sundararajan. His portrayal of the detestable pimp Vaidhy in "Thillana Mohanambal" was noted for the way in which Nagesh blended humour with villainy. In most of his comic films, Nagesh paired with the actress Manorama. In 1967, Nagesh acted in his first Hindi movie, "Farz".