Dhanush
| |
| Dhanush in 2025 | |
| Born | 28 July 1983 (age 42) Madras (Chennai), Tamil Nadu, India |
|---|---|
| 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 is well-known for his versatility and highly regarded performances, having starred in more than 50 movies. In addition to being a producer, Dhanush directed his first film, "Pa Paandi" (2017). His viral song "Why This Kolaveri Di" brought him international recognition, and he has won numerous accolades, including four National Film Awards.
Early Life & Education
Dhanush was on 28 July 1983 born in Madras (now Chennai), Tamil Nadu,his father, Kasthuri Raja and his mother, Vijayalakshmi. His older brother, director Selvaraghavan, encouraged him to pursue acting after he had initially expressed interest in becoming a chef. Karthiga Karthik and Vimalageetha are his two sisters.
Career
Dhanush debuted in 2002 with Thulluvadho Ilamai, directed by his father. After making his breakthrough with "Kaadhal Kondein" (2003), he went on to achieve success with "Polladhavan" (2007) and "Yaaradi Nee Mohini" (2008). "Aadukalam" (2010) earned him his first National Film Award for Best Actor. Since then, he has given highly praised performances in the films "Maryan," "Velaiilla Pattadhari," "Anegan," "Kodi," "Vada Chennai," "Asuran," and "Thiruchitrambalam."
In addition to becoming well-known as a singer thanks to viral hits like "Why This Kolaveri Di" and "Rowdy Baby," Dhanush made his Hindi film debut in 2013 with "Raanjhanaa." He uses his company, Wunderbar Films, to produce movies.
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.