Dhanush
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Dhanush in 2025 | |
Born | 28 July 1983 (age 42) Madras (Chennai), Tamil Nadu, India |
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Nationality | Indian |
Education | |
Alma mater | |
Occupation | Actor, Filmmaker, Lyricist, Playback Singer |
Years active | 2002–present |
Known for | Acting, Directing, Music |
Notable works | Thulluvadho Ilamai, Aadukalam, Raanjhanaa, Velaiilla Pattadhari, Asuran |
Awards | 4× National Film Awards, 14× SIIMA Awards, 8× Filmfare Awards South, 1× Filmfare Award |
Spouse(s) | Aishwarya R. Dhanush (m. 2004; div. 2024) |
Parents | Kasthuri Raja (father),
Vijayalakshmi (mother) |
Religion | Hinduism |
Website |
Dhanush (Venkatesh Prabhu Kasthuri Raja) is an Indian actor, filmmaker, lyricist, and playback singer who primarily works in Tamil cinema. He has appeared in over 50 films and is known for his versatility and critically acclaimed performances. Dhanush is also a producer and made his directorial debut with Pa Paandi (2017). He gained worldwide attention with the viral song "Why This Kolaveri Di" and has won multiple awards including four National Film Awards.
Early Life & Education
Dhanush was on 28 July 1983 born in Madras (now Chennai), Tamil Nadu, to film director and producer Kasthuri Raja and Vijayalakshmi. Initially interested in becoming a chef, he was encouraged by his elder brother, director Selvaraghavan, to pursue acting. He has two sisters, Vimalageetha and Karthiga Karthik.
Career
Dhanush debuted in 2002 with Thulluvadho Ilamai, directed by his father. His breakthrough came with Kaadhal Kondein (2003), followed by hits like Polladhavan (2007) and Yaaradi Nee Mohini (2008). He won his first National Film Award for Best Actor for Aadukalam (2010). He has since delivered acclaimed performances in Maryan, Velaiilla Pattadhari, Anegan, Kodi, Vada Chennai, Asuran, and Thiruchitrambalam.
Dhanush made his Hindi film debut with Raanjhanaa (2013) and also gained fame as a singer with viral hits like "Why This Kolaveri Di" and "Rowdy Baby". He produces films under his company, Wunderbar Films.
Notable Works
- Thulluvadho Ilamai (2002)
- Kaadhal Kondein (2003)
- Aadukalam (2010)
- Raanjhanaa (2013)
- Velaiilla Pattadhari (2014)
- Asuran (2019)
Achievements and Recognition
- 4× National Film Awards (2 as actor, 2 as producer)
- 14× SIIMA Awards
- 8× Filmfare Awards South
- Filmfare Award for Best Male Debut (Hindi)
- Forbes India Celebrity 100 list (6 times)
Personal Life
Dhanush married Aishwarya Rajinikanth in 2004; they have two sons, Yatra and Linga. The couple divorced in 2024. Dhanush is a devout Hindu, vegetarian, and an ardent devotee of Lord Shiva.
External Links
- [Instagram]
- [IMDB]
- [X]
- [Facebook]