Dhanush, born as Venkatesh Prabhu Kasthuri Raja on July 28, 1983, is a highly acclaimed Indian actor, producer, director, playback singer, and lyricist primarily known for his work in the Tamil film industry. He is celebrated for his versatility and natural acting style, which has earned him numerous accolades and a significant fan base across India and beyond.
Early Life and Background
Dhanush was born into a film-centric family in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. His father, Kasthuri Raja, is a well-known Tamil film director, and his elder brother, Selvaraghavan, is a prominent filmmaker. Despite his family’s involvement in the film industry, Dhanush initially aspired to pursue hotel management. However, his brother convinced him to enter the world of cinema, which turned out to be a life-changing decision.
Acting Career
Dhanush made his acting debut in 2002 with the Tamil film Thulluvadho Ilamai, directed by his father, Kasthuri Raja. The coming-of-age film was a commercial success and introduced Dhanush as a promising actor. Since then, his career has witnessed a meteoric rise, with performances that have garnered critical acclaim.
Notable Films
- Polladhavan (2007): A breakthrough film that established Dhanush as a bankable star. His portrayal of a young man fighting against a bike theft mafia was widely praised.
- Aadukalam (2011): Dhanush won the National Film Award for Best Actor for his powerful performance in this rural drama centered around cockfighting.
- Raanjhanaa (2013): His Bollywood debut showcased his ability to connect with a pan-Indian audience. The role earned him widespread recognition in the Hindi film industry.
- Maari (2015): A commercial entertainer where Dhanush’s charismatic portrayal of a quirky gangster became iconic.
- Asuran (2019): A critically acclaimed film in which Dhanush played a farmer fighting against societal oppression. The role earned him another National Film Award for Best Actor.
- The Gray Man (2022): Dhanush made his Hollywood debut in this Russo Brothers-directed action film, cementing his status as a global star.
Other Talents
Apart from acting, Dhanush is a gifted singer and lyricist. His song “Why This Kolaveri Di” from the film 3 became a global phenomenon in 2011, making him a household name internationally. The song’s catchy tune and quirky lyrics resonated with audiences worldwide, earning millions of views on YouTube.
As a producer, Dhanush has supported several noteworthy projects under his banner, Wunderbar Films. He has also ventured into directing with the critically acclaimed film Pa Paandi (2017).
Awards and Achievements
Dhanush has received numerous awards and accolades for his contributions to cinema, including:
- 2 National Film Awards for Best Actor (Aadukalam and Asuran).
- 7 Filmfare Awards South.
- Vikatan Awards, SIIMA Awards, and several others.
- Honored with the Best Actor of the Decade Award by The Hindu in 2021.
Personal Life
Dhanush married Aishwaryaa Rajinikanth, the elder daughter of legendary Tamil superstar Rajinikanth, in 2004. The couple has two sons, Yatra and Linga. Though they announced their separation in 2022, Dhanush remains a private individual who keeps his personal life away from the limelight.
Legacy and Global Reach
Dhanush’s rise from a modest background to an internationally recognized actor is a testament to his hard work, talent, and determination. His ability to seamlessly transition between commercial entertainers and intense character-driven roles sets him apart in the Tamil film industry. With successful ventures in Bollywood and Hollywood, Dhanush has become a true global ambassador of Tamil cinema.
Dhanush is more than just an actor—he is a multifaceted artist whose contributions have elevated the Tamil film industry. With his natural acting, unique screen presence, and talent across various domains, Dhanush continues to inspire aspiring artists and entertain millions worldwide.