He later worked again with Parthiban and Murali for the social comedy drama, "Vetri Kodi Kattu" (2000), which focused on scams committed by agents who promised lavish jobs and salaries abroad, and in the process swindling the money of innocent people. The film won critical acclaim upon release, and Cheran won a National Film Award for his work in the film. Cheran then made "Pandavar Bhoomi" (2001) with actors Arunkumar, Shamitha and Rajkiran, which explored themes of wholesale emigration of villagers to the city and the loss of good, solid agricultural lands, culture and solidarity. The film performed well at the box office and garnered mixed reviews from critics. A reviewer from Sify.com stated the film was "typical overdose of Cheran melodrama masala". Cheran then turned actor in director Thangar Bachan's romantic drama film "Solla Marandha Kadhai" (2002). The film garnered mixed review but performed well at the box office.