Dhanush is a popular Indian actor, singer, producer, director, lyricist, and screenwriter, best known for his work in Tamil cinema. 

His real name is Venkatesh Prabhu Kasthuri Raja, and he was born on 28 July 1983 (42 years old) in Madras, now Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India. 

He made his acting debut with the Tamil film Thulluvadho Ilamai in 2002 and later became widely known for films such as Kaadhal Kondein, Aadukalam, Raanjhanaa, Asuran, and The Gray Man

He is a versatile Indian cinema personality who has worked across Tamil, Hindi, and Hollywood films.

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Quick Facts: Dhanush

Dhanush Wiki
Full NameVenkatesh Prabhu Kasthuri Raja
Also Known AsDhanush
ProfessionActor, singer, film producer, director, lyricist, and screenwriter
Age42 years old
Date of Birth28 July 1983
NationalityIndian
Zodiac/Sun SignLeo
BirthplaceMadras, now Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
Current AddressChennai, Tamil Nadu, India
GenderMale

Dhanush Early Life and Education

Dhanush did not originally plan to become an actor. 

His early life was shaped by modest financial circumstances, a sudden entry into cinema, and an entirely different dream career. 

The family faced severe financial constraints during Dhanush’s childhood, which only began to ease once his father found stable work as an assistant director. 

He was born into a middle-class family. Before establishing himself as a director and scriptwriter in the Tamil film industry.

Education

Dhanush attended multiple schools in Chennai to complete his primary and secondary education.

Thai Sathiya Matriculation High School, where he spent his early years from kindergarten up to his 10th standard (SSLC).

St. John’s Matriculation Higher Secondary School, where he completed a portion of his higher secondary studies. 

JRK Matriculation Higher Secondary School, another institution he attended during his school years in Chennai. 

During his school days, Dhanush did not incline towards films. He was deeply passionate about cooking and actively planned to clear his 12th standard to join a Hotel Management program and train to become a professional chef. 

Because his father and brother pushed him directly onto a film set right after school, Dhanush never had the opportunity to attend a regular, on-campus college.

Determined to finish his higher education, he enrolled in a correspondence program. 

He completed his graduation and obtained his BCA degree from Madurai Kamaraj University via distance education. 

SchoolThai Sathiya Matriculation High School
Alma MaterMadurai Kamaraj University 
Highest QualificationBachelor of Computer Applications through distance learning

Dhanush Personal Life

Dhanush was married to filmmaker Aishwaryaa Rajinikanth, the elder daughter of actor Rajinikanth. 

His personal life recently entered a new chapter focused primarily on independent paths and co-parenting. 

Wife

Dhanush currently does not have a wife, as his 18-year marriage to filmmaker Aishwarya Rajinikanth ended in a legal divorce. 

She is the eldest daughter of Indian cinema icon Rajinikanth.

Professionally, she made her directorial debut with the psychological romantic thriller film 3 (2012), which starred Dhanush in the lead role and featured the global viral hit song “Why This Kolaveri Di”.

According to a retrospective interview timeline, Dhanush and Aishwarya met at a screening of his second movie, Kadhal Kondein. She sent him a congratulatory bouquet the following day, which initiated their connection. 

The couple married on 18 November 2004 in a high-profile traditional wedding backed by both families. 

They share two sons: Yatra Raja (born in 2006) and Linga Raja (born in 2010). 

On 17 January 2022, the couple shocked the industry by putting out independent social media statements announcing their decision to part ways to understand themselves better as individuals.

After living separately for two years, they formally filed a petition for divorce by mutual consent under Section 13B of the Hindu Marriage Act in April 2024. Principal Family Court Judge S. Subadevi officially granted their legal divorce on 27 November 2024. 

Dhanush and Aishwarya have maintained an amicable public stance centered strictly around co-parenting. 

Children

Dhanush Sons

Dhanush has two sons from his former marriage to filmmaker Aishwarya Rajinikanth: Yatra Raja and Linga Raja. True to Dhanush’s personal spiritual beliefs as a devout follower of Lord Shiva, both children are named after Shiva.

Eldest Son: Yatra Raja was born on 10 October 2006 and is currently 19 years old. 

He completed his schooling at a top-tier institution in Chennai. In May 2024, Yatra achieved stellar results in his Class 12 board examinations. His school graduation ceremony served as a major public reunion for his parents. 

Yatra is reported to be an aspiring cinematographer. He also took his first steps into the music industry by contributing lyrics to the track “Golden Sparrow” for his father’s directorial venture. 

In late 2023, Yatra made headlines when a viral video showed him riding a superbike in Chennai’s Poes Garden area. As he was under 18 at the time and riding without a license or helmet, the local traffic police summoned his mother and issued a fine. 

Younger Son: Linga Raja was born in 2010 and is currently 15 years old.

He studies at the same reputed school in Chennai that his elder brother attended.

While generally kept away from the media glare, Linga has slowly begun stepping into public view. He made headlines for sharing the stage with his father during a dance performance at a film audio launch event. 

Father

Dhanush Paretns

Kasthuri Raja is Dhanush’s father. Born Krishnamoorthy in Theni, Tamil Nadu, he is a veteran Tamil film director, producer, scriptwriter, and actor who significantly shaped the landscape of rural-centric Tamil cinema in the 1990s. 

Crucially, he is the man responsible for launching Dhanush’s acting career by directing his debut film. 

When Kasthuri Raja decided to direct this youth-centric teen drama, he faced a casting crunch and decided to feature his youngest son, Venkatesh Prabhu (Dhanush), as the lead actor.

Mother

Vijayalakshmi is Dhanush’s mother. She is a dedicated homemaker who has stayed entirely out of the media spotlight, despite being married to a veteran director and raising two of South Indian cinema’s most prominent creative forces.

Dhanush has frequently highlighted his mother’s vital role in their lives. In a heartfelt public tribute, he called her his “goddess” and openly thanked her for the immense hardships and unconditional sacrifices she endured to support the family during their early years of financial struggle.  

Siblings

Dhanush has three siblings: an elder brother, Selvaraghavan, and two elder sisters, Dr. K. Vimala Geetha and Dr. Karthika Devi. All four siblings share a very close-knit bond and frequently host private family reunions. 

Elder Brother: Born on 5 March 1975, Selvaraghavan is a critically acclaimed Tamil film director, screenwriter, and actor. He is known for directing raw, cult-classic psychological dramas like 7G Rainbow Colony, Pudhupettai, and Aayirathil Oruvan.

The brothers are one of Kollywood’s most iconic duos. Selvaraghavan directed Dhanush in ground-breaking films like Kaadhal Kondein (Dhanush’s breakthrough film), Pudhupettai, Mayakkam Enna, and Naane Varuven

Elder Sister: Dr. K. Vimala Geetha chose to stay far away from the glitz and glamour of cinema, fulfilling her parents’ wishes by pursuing a highly successful career as a doctor.

Her son, Pavish Narayan, made headlines by stepping into the family’s filmmaking footsteps and venturing into the film industry. 

Elder Sister: Dr. Karthika Devi chose a career in medicine and works as a doctor. She is married to Dr. Karthick Anjaneyan, a prominent cardiologist. 

The family bond spilled onto the sets of Dhanush’s movie Raayan. Dhanush cast his brother-in-law, Dr. Karthick, in a pivotal supporting role as a police officer. Karthika later publicly took to social media to thank her brother for giving her husband a memorable screen opportunity. 

Relationship StatusDivorced
Wife/PartnerEx-wife: Aishwaryaa Rajinikanth
ChildrenSon: Yatra
Son: Linga
ParentsFather: Kasthuri Raja
Mother: Vijayalakshmi 
SiblingsBrother: Selvaraghavan
Sister: K. Vimala Geetha
Sister:  Karthika Devi

Dhanush Career

Dhanush

Dhanush started his film career in Tamil cinema and later became one of the most recognised Indian actors across Tamil, Hindi, Telugu, and international projects. 

He is known not only as an actor, but also as a singer, lyricist, producer, director, and screenwriter.

2002 — Debut: Thulluvadho Ilamai

Encouraged by his family, young Dhanush began his cinematic career as the lead in the teen drama Thulluvadho Ilamai (2002; “Exuberance of Youth”), which was directed by his father and written by his brother, and went on to become a sleeper hit. The film co-starred Sherin opposite Dhanush. 

2003 — Breakthrough: Kaadhal Kondein & Thiruda Thirudi

In 2003, he appeared in his brother Selvaraghavan’s debut directorial venture, the romantic psychological thriller Kaadhal Kondein, co-starring Sonia Agarwal. The film portrayed Dhanush as a mentally-disturbed youth, Vinodh, who yearned for the love of his friend, eventually turning possessive of her. His next film was the romantic comedy Thiruda Thirudi (2003), co-starring Sherin and directed by A. Venkatesh, a critical and commercial success. 

2004 — Pudhukottaiyilirundhu Saravanan & Sullan & Dreams

In 2004, Dhanush appeared in three films — Pudhukottaiyilirundhu Saravanan, Sullan, and Dreams — none of which made significant impacts at the box office. Pudhukottaiyilirundhu Saravanan, notably, saw Dhanush make his playback singing debut, introduced to singing by composer Yuvan Shankar Raja.

2005 — Devathaiyai Kanden & Adhu Oru Kana Kaalam

In 2005, he appeared in Devathaiyai Kanden, directed by Boopathy Pandian, opposite Sindhu Menon. He then worked on Balu Mahendra’s Adhu Oru Kana Kaalam opposite Priyamani. Though it was a commercial disaster at the box office, Dhanush has repeatedly stated that he started taking acting seriously only after working with Mahendra. 

2006 — Cult Classic: Pudhupettai & Thiruvilaiyaadal Aarambam

In 2006, he reunited with his brother Selvaraghavan for the cult gangster film Pudhupettai, co-starring Sneha and Sonia Agarwal. It portrayed a young man’s journey from a street urchin to a gangster, receiving mixed reviews initially, though Dhanush’s performance received major praise. That same year, he starred in the blockbuster commercial entertainer Thiruvilaiyaadal Aarambam opposite Shriya Saran and Prakash Raj, his first major box-office success. 

2007 — Parattai Engira Azhagu Sundaram & Polladhavan

In 2007, his first release, Parattai Engira Azhagu Sundaram, a remake of the Kannada film Jogi (2005), opposite Meera Jasmine, was unsuccessful. However, his second film, Polladhavan, was released during Diwali 2007. Polladhavan was based on the 1948 Italian neorealist film Bicycle Thieves, and Dhanush’s performance was appreciated. The film starred Divya Spandana opposite Dhanush and was directed by Vetrimaran, the beginning of a landmark directorial partnership. 

2008 — Yaaradi Nee Mohini & Kutty (Production)

In 2008, the remake of a Telugu film directed by his brother formed the plot line for Yaaradi Nee Mohini, directed by Mithran Jawahar and co-starring Nayanthara. The romantic comedy proved to be a major critical and commercial success, thus earning Dhanush his third nomination for the Filmfare Award for Best Actor – Tamil. He also had a cameo appearance in Rajinikanth’s Kuselan that year. 

2009 — Padikathavan & Kutty

In 2009, his film Padikathavan (also known as Padikkadavan), directed by Suraj and co-starring Tamannaah Bhatia, was a box office success and established Dhanush as a bankable star. His next project, Kutty, was filmed in 2009 but released the following year. 

2010 — Kutty, Uthamaputhiran & Aayirathil Oruvan

In 2010, he had two releases with director Mithran Jawahar — Kutty, co-starring Trisha Krishnan, and Uthamaputhiran, co-starring Genelia D’Souza — the latter emerging as a box office success. He also appeared in Selvaraghavan’s fantasy adventure Aayirathil Oruvan alongside his then-wife Aishwarya Rajinikanth, for which he sang the song “Un Mele Aasaidhaan” earning him his first Filmfare Award for Best Male Playback Singer – Tamil. Wunderbar Films, his production company, was also founded this year.

2011 — National Award: Aadukalam, Mayakkam Enna, Mappillai, Venghai

This was a landmark year. His long-awaited collaboration with Vetrimaran, Aadukalam, co-starring Taapsee Pannu, released on 14 January 2011. The film was a commercial success at the box office. His next film, Mayakkam Enna, directed by Selvaraghavan, saw him play a photographer opposite Richa Gangopadhyay — a critically praised work. He also starred in Mappillai, a remake of his father-in-law Rajinikanth’s 1989 film, opposite Tamannaah Bhatia, and in Hari’s Venghai, opposite Tamannaah Bhatia, both of which were commercial successes. 

2012 — Global Sensation: 3 & “Why This Kolaveri Di”

His only release of 2012 was the romantic psychological thriller 3, directed by his then-wife Aishwarya Dhanush, in which he played a bipolar disorder patient opposite Shruti Haasan. The film emerged as a critical and commercial success, mainly due to the popularity of the song “Why This Kolaveri Di”. The song quickly became viral, the first video from India to gain 100 million YouTube views.

2013 — Bollywood Debut: Maryan, Naiyaandi, Raanjhanaa

In 2013, Dhanush appeared in cameo roles in the Malayalam film Proprietors: Kammath & Kammath and the Tamil film Ethir Neechal. His main releases were the critically acclaimed Maryan (directed by AR Murugadoss) opposite Parvathy Thiruvothu, and the comedy Naiyaandi opposite Nazriya Nazim. Dhanush expanded to Hindi films with Raanjhanaa, directed by Aanand L. Rai. He played a Tamil Hindu boy who is in love with a Muslim girl (played by Sonam Kapoor).

2014 — Velaiilla Pattadhari (VIP)

Dhanush’s sole film of 2014 was the comedy-drama Velaiilla Pattadhari opposite Amala Paul, which was also his 25th film and was directed by Velraj. It received positive reviews from critics and was a commercial success, ranking among the highest-grossing Tamil films of 2014. Dhanush won his third Filmfare Award for Best Actor – Tamil for his performance in the film. The Telugu dubbed version, Raghuvaran B. Tech, was also a success. 

2015 — Shamitabh, Anegan, Maari, Thanga Magan, Vai Raja Vai

In 2015, Dhanush had a five-film year. His first release was Shamitabh, directed by R. Balki, his second Hindi film starring Akshara Haasan. It opened to highly positive reviews and was praised for the concept, but failed at the box office. He co-starred with the legendary Amitabh Bachchan in it. His next film was Anegan, a psychological thriller directed by K.V. Anand, where he played four characters in different eras opposite Amyra Dastur. He then played a local gangster opposite Kajal Aggarwal in Maari, directed by Balaji Mohan, a critical and commercial success. Thanga Magan, directed by Velraj opposite Samantha Ruth Prabhu and Amy Jackson, was praised critically but failed commercially. He also appeared in Vai Raja Vai opposite Priya Anand

2016 — Thodari & Kodi

In 2016, Dhanush appeared in Thodari opposite Keerthy Suresh, an action thriller film set on a train, a moderate box office success. In his next release, Kodi, a political action thriller, Dhanush played dual roles of a politician and his apolitical twin brother opposite Trisha Krishnan and Anupama Parameswaran. The film was a commercial success. 

2017 — Directorial Debut: Pa. Pandi & Velaiilla Pattadhari 2

In 2017, Dhanush made his directorial debut with Pa. Pandi (also titled Power Paandi). He also played the younger version of the lead character opposite Madonna Sebastian. It was a box office success and received critical acclaim. He earned his first Filmfare Award for Best Director – Tamil for this film. His second release, Velaiilla Pattadhari 2, directed by his sister-in-law Soundarya Rajinikanth, saw him reprise his character from the prequel alongside Kajol and was one of the highest-grossing Tamil films of that year. 

2018 — Vada Chennai & Maari 2 & International Film

His films Vada Chennai and Maari 2 were released in 2018. Vada Chennai was highly praised by critics and emerged as the highest-grossing A-rated Tamil film of all time. Vada Chennai starred Aishwarya Rajesh and Andrea Jeremiah and was directed by Vetrimaran. Maari 2, the sequel to Maari, starred Sai Pallavi opposite Dhanush — and their song “Rowdy Baby” went on to become the first South Indian video song to reach one billion views on YouTube. Dhanush’s first international French film, The Extraordinary Journey of the Fakir, was also released in 2018. 

2019 — Second National Award: Asuran & Enai Noki Paayum Thota

In 2019, he starred in Enai Noki Paayum Thota, directed by Gautham Vasudev Menon, opposite Megha Akash — released after several delays with mixed reviews. His landmark release of the year was Asuran, directed by Vetrimaran opposite Manju Warrier, which was praised by critics for its gritty portrayal of land and caste violence and became a box office success. 

2020 — Pattas

Dhanush’s first 2020 release, on Pongal, was the martial arts action film Pattas, directed by R. S. Durai Senthilkumar, in which he played a double role. The film received positive reviews. It co-starred Sneha in one of the roles and Mehreen Pirzada as the female lead. He also joined the ensemble cast of the Russo Brothers’ Hollywood Netflix production The Gray Man this year. 

2021 — Karnan, Jagame Thandhiram & Atrangi Re

Dhanush’s first 2021 role was his starring role in Karnan, directed by Mari Selvaraj, and featuring Lal, Natty Subramaniam, Yogi Babu, Rajisha Vijayan, and Gouri Kishan alongside him. His next project was the black comedy gangster film Jagame Thandhiram, written and directed by Karthik Subbaraj, which released directly on Netflix and starred Aishwarya Lekshmi and Joju George. He also starred in Aanand L. Rai’s Hindi-language film Atrangi Re, released in August 2021, co-starring Akshay Kumar and Sara Ali Khan.

2022 — Thiruchitrambalam, Naane Varuven, Maaran & The Gray Man

In 2022, Dhanush had four major releases. He starred in Thiruchitrambalam, directed by Mithran Jawahar, featuring Nithya Menen, Priya Bhavani Shankar, Raashi Khanna, Bharathiraja, Prakash Raj, and Munishkanth — which went on to become the highest-grossing film in his career at that time. 

He also starred in Naane Varuven, directed by his brother Selvaraghavan, playing dual roles. He appeared in Maaran (an OTT release). His Hollywood debut, The Gray Man, directed by the Russo Brothers, saw him play the antagonist opposite Ryan Gosling, Chris Evans, and Ana de Armas — making him one of the very few Indian actors to headline a major Hollywood production. 

2023 — Vaathi / Sir

Vaathi (transl. Teacher) is a 2023 Indian period action drama film written and directed by Venky Atluri and produced by Naga Vamsi. The film marks Dhanush foraying into Telugu cinema for the first time, with the film simultaneously released in Tamil (Vaathi) and Telugu (Sir). It co-starred Samyuktha in the female lead and grossed an estimated ₹105 crore worldwide — a huge commercial success. 

2024 — Captain Miller & Raayan (Directorial Return & Highest Grosser)

Captain Miller is a 2024 Indian Tamil-language historical action adventure film directed and co-written by Arun Matheswaran. The film stars Dhanush alongside Shiva Rajkumar, Sundeep Kishan, Priyanka Mohan, and Aditi Balan. It was released worldwide on 12 January 2024, the week of Pongal, in standard and IMAX formats. Set in pre-independence India, the film was both visually and narratively ambitious. 

Raayan is a 2024 Indian Tamil-language neo-noir action thriller film written and directed by Dhanush. It stars Dhanush alongside Dushara Vijayan, S.J. Suryah, Sundeep Kishan, Kalidas Jayaram, Prakash Raj, Selvaraghavan, and Aparna Balamurali, with music by A.R. Rahman. 

2025 — Nilavuku Enmel Ennadi Kobam, Tere Ishk Mein & Kuberaa

In early 2025, Dhanush’s third directorial, Nilavuku Enmel Ennadi Kobam, released in February, co-starring G.V. Prakash Kumar and Lal. 

Then came Tere Ishk Mein (released 28 November 2025), directed by Aanand L. Rai — his third collaboration with the director and a spiritual successor to Raanjhanaa — co-starring Kriti Sanon with music by A.R. Rahman. 

Kuberaa is a 2025 Indian action drama film directed by Sekhar Kammula and stars Dhanush alongside Nagarjuna, Rashmika Mandanna, and Jim Sarbh, with music by Devi Sri Prasad. Released on 20 June 2025. 

Dhanush also directed and starred in his fourth directorial, Idly Kadai (2025), co-starring Nithya Menen and Arun Vijay, produced by his own Wunderbar Films. 

2026 — Kara

Dhanush Work

Dhanush has committed to a two-film theatrical strategy in 2026, transitioning from a grounded social-crime drama to a massive action epic.

Kara, Directed by Vignesh Raja. A gritty, 1990s period heist thriller centering on a former thief forced into a stand-off with a banking institution to save family lands. The film collected approximately ₹50 crore at the global box office. The main co-stars appearing alongside Dhanush in Kara (2026) include Mamitha Baiju, Suraj Venjaramoodu, K. S. Ravikumar, and Jayaram. 

Upcoming Work

Wings of Fire / Kalam: The Missile Man of India — Om Raut (2026/2027)

A biopic on Bharat Ratna Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, India’s 11th President and renowned aerospace scientist, has been officially announced at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival. Titled Wings of Fire, the film will be directed by Om Raut, known for Tanhaji: The Unsung Warrior, and will feature National Award-winning actor Dhanush in the lead role. 

The project brings together major names from the Indian film industry — Abhishek Agarwal under Abhishek Agarwal Arts and Bhushan Kumar under the T-Series banner. 

The screenplay is penned by Saiwyn Quadras, whose previous writing credits include Neerja, Maidaan, and Parmanu: The Story of Pokhran. The film aims to trace Dr. Kalam’s extraordinary journey — from his modest beginnings in Rameswaram to his rise as one of India’s most respected scientific minds.

As Producer

Through his production company Wunderbar Films, Dhanush has produced several nationally and critically significant films beyond his own work. Most notably, he produced Kaaka Muttai (2015) and Visaranai (2015) — both of which won him National Film Awards as producer, adding two more National Awards to his tally. He has also produced Maari (2015), Thanga Magan (2015), Naanum Rowdy Dhaan starring Vijay Sethupathi (2015), Vada Chennai (2018), and Maari 2 (2018), among others.

Dhanush Awards and Achievements

Dhanush Award

Dhanush has received major recognition as an actor, producer, singer, and creative film personality. His strongest awards record is linked to the National Film Awards, where he has won both as an actor and as a producer.

Awards

  • 2008 — Vijay Award, Best Entertainer of the Year — won for Yaaradi Nee Mohini.
  • 2011 — National Film Award for Best Actor — won for Aadukalam.
  • 2011 — Filmfare Award South, Best Actor – Tamil — won for Aadukalam.
  • 2011 — SIIMA Award, Sensation of South Indian Cinema — won for his impact on South Indian cinema.
  • 2011 — Vijay Award, Best Crew (Actor) — won for Aadukalam.
  • 2011 — Vijay Award, Best Entertainer of the Year — jointly won for Aadukalam and Mayakkam Enna.
  • 2011 — CNN Top Song of the Year Award — won for “Why This Kolaveri Di” from 3.
  • 2011 — Chennai Times Award, Stylish Star of South Cinema — won for his screen and style presence.
  • 2011 — Asianet Most Popular Actor (Tamil) — won after the success of Aadukalam.
  • 2012 — Filmfare Award South, Best Actor – Tamil — won for 3.
  • 2012 — Filmfare Award South, Best Male Playback Singer – Tamil — won for “Why This Kolaveri Di” from 3.
  • 2012 — SIIMA Award, Best Actor – Tamil — won for Aadukalam.
  • 2012 — SIIMA Award, Best Male Playback Singer – Tamil — won for “Why This Kolaveri Di” from 3.
  • 2012 — SIIMA Award, Sensation of Innovative Marketing — won for the viral success of 3.
  • 2012 — Vijay Award, Best Actor — won for 3.
  • 2012 — Vijay Award, Best Lyricist — won for “Po Nee Po” from 3.
  • 2012 — Vijay Award, Favourite Hero — won for 3.
  • 2012 — Chennai Times Award, Best Actor — won for 3.
  • 2013 — Filmfare Award South, Critics’ Best Actor – Tamil — won for Maryan.
  • 2013 — SIIMA Award, Best Actor – Tamil — won for 3.
  • 2013 — Vijay Award, Best Crew (Producer) — won as producer of Ethir Neechal.
  • 2013 — Edison Award, Best Actor — won for Maryan.
  • 2014 — Filmfare Award for Best Male Debut (Hindi) — won for Raanjhanaa.
  • 2014 — SIIMA Award, Best Actor – Tamil — won for Maryan.
  • 2014 — SIIMA Award, Pride of South Indian Cinema — received as a special honour.
  • 2014 — Vijay Award, Best Actor — won for Velaiilla Pattathari.
  • 2014 — Vijay Award, Best Film (Producer) — won as producer of Velaiilla Pattathari.
  • 2014 — Edison Award, Best Actor — won for Velaiilla Pattathari.
  • 2014 — Ananda Vikatan Award, Best Actor — won for Velaiilla Pattathari.
  • 2014 — IIFA Award for Star Debut of the Year – Male — won for Raanjhanaa.
  • 2014 — Zee Cine Award for Best Male Debut — won for Raanjhanaa.
  • 2014 — Star Screen Award, Best Actor Popular Choice — won for Raanjhanaa.
  • 2014 — Star Screen Award, Most Promising Newcomer – Male — won for Raanjhanaa.
  • 2014 — Big Star Entertainment Award, Most Entertaining Debutant Actor — won for Raanjhanaa.
  • 2014 — Behindwoods Gold Medal, Best Acting Performance — won for Maryan.
  • 2014 — Tamil Nadu State Film Award, Special Prize — awarded for Kaaka Muttai as co-producer.
  • 2015 — National Film Award for Best Children’s Film — won as co-producer of Kaaka Muttai.
  • 2015 — Filmfare Award South, Best Actor – Tamil — won for Velaiilla Pattathari.
  • 2015 — SIIMA Award, Best Actor – Tamil — won for Velaiilla Pattathari.
  • 2015 — SIIMA Award, Best Lyricist – Tamil — won for “Don-u Don-u Don-u” from Maari.
  • 2015 — SIIMA Award, Best Male Playback Singer – Kannada — won for “No Problem” from Vajrakaya.
  • 2015 — Edison Award, Best Producer — won for Kaaka Muttai.
  • 2015 — Edison Award, Mass Hero — won for Maari.
  • 2015 — Ananda Vikatan Award, Best Film — won as producer of Kaaka Muttai.
  • 2015 — SICA Award, Best Actor — won for Velaiilla Pattathari.
  • 2016 — National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Tamil — won as co-producer of Visaranai.
  • 2016 — Ananda Vikatan Award, Best Film — won as producer of Visaranai.
  • 2017 — Filmfare Award South, Best Director – Tamil — won for Pa. Pandi.
  • 2017 — Vijay Award, Best Entertainer of the Year — won for Pa. Pandi and Velaiilla Pattathari 2.
  • 2018 — Edison Award, Best Actor — won for Vada Chennai.
  • 2018 — Ananda Vikatan Award, Best Actor — won for Vada Chennai.
  • 2018 — MGR Sivaji Academy Award, Sensational Debut Director — won for Pa. Pandi.
  • 2018 — Vanitha Film Award, Best Actor Tamil — won for Vada Chennai.
  • 2019 — Filmfare Award South, Best Actor – Tamil — won for Vada Chennai.
  • 2019 — SIIMA Award, Best Actor – Tamil — won for Asuran.
  • 2019 — Edison Award, Best Actor — won for Asuran.
  • 2019 — Ananda Vikatan Award, Best Actor — won for Asuran.
  • 2020 — National Film Award for Best Actor — won for Asuran.
  • 2022 — Filmfare Award South, Critics’ Best Actor – Tamil — won for Thiruchitrambalam.
  • 2022 — Mirchi Listeners’ Choice Award, Album of the Year — won for Atrangi Re, shared with A.R. Rahman and the musical team.
  • Forbes India Celebrity 100 List — featured six times across his career.

Nominations

  • 2003 — Filmfare Award South, Best Actor – Tamil — nominated for Kadhal Kondein.
  • 2007 — Vijay Award, Best Actor — nominated for Polladhavan.
  • 2007 — Vijay Award, Favourite Hero — nominated for Polladhavan.
  • 2008 — Filmfare Award South, Best Actor – Tamil — nominated for Yaaradi Nee Mohini.
  • 2008 — Vijay Award, Best Actor — nominated for Yaaradi Nee Mohini.
  • 2010 — Filmfare Award South, Best Male Playback Singer – Tamil — nominated for “Un Mele Aasaidhaan” from Aayirathil Oruvan.
  • 2011 — Vijay Award, Best Actor — nominated for Aadukalam.
  • 2011 — Vijay Award, Favourite Hero — nominated for Aadukalam.
  • 2011 — Vijay Award, Best Lyricist — nominated for “Voda Voda” from Mayakkam Enna.
  • 2012 — Vijay Award, Best Male Playback Singer — nominated for “Why This Kolaveri Di” from 3.
  • 2012 — SIIMA Award, Best Debutant Producer — nominated for Wunderbar Films’ production of 3.
  • 2013 — Filmfare Award South, Best Actor – Tamil — nominated for Maryan.
  • 2013 — Vijay Award, Best Actor — nominated for Maryan.
  • 2013 — Vijay Award, Favourite Hero — nominated for Maryan.
  • 2014 — National Film Award, Best Children’s Film — nominated as co-producer of Kaaka Muttai.
  • 2014 — Vijay Award, Best Lyricist — nominated for “Amma Amma” from Velaiilla Pattathari.
  • 2014 — Vijay Award, Favourite Hero — nominated for Velaiilla Pattathari.
  • 2014 — Vijay Award, Favourite Film — nominated as producer of Velaiilla Pattathari.
  • 2015 — Filmfare Award South, Best Actor – Tamil — nominated for Anegan.
  • 2015 — Filmfare Award South, Best Film — nominated as co-producer of Kaaka Muttai.
  • 2015 — Ananda Vikatan, Best Film — nominated as co-producer of Kaaka Muttai.
  • 2016 — Filmfare Award South, Best Film — nominated as co-producer of Visaranai.
  • 2016 — SIIMA Award, Best Actor – Tamil — nominated for Anegan.
  • 2017 — Filmfare Award South, Best Director – Tamil — nominated for Pa. Pandi.
  • 2017 — Filmfare Award South, Best Actor – Tamil — nominated for Kodi.
  • 2017 — Filmfare Award South, Best Male Playback Singer – Tamil — nominated for “No Problem” from Vajrakaya.
  • 2017 — Ananda Vikatan, Best Debut Director — nominated for Pa. Pandi.
  • 2019 — Filmfare Award South, Best Film – Tamil — nominated as co-producer of Vada Chennai.
  • 2021 — Ananda Vikatan, Best Actor — nominated for Pattas.
  • 2022 — Filmfare Award South, Best Actor – Tamil — nominated for Karnan.
  • 2022 — Filmfare Award, Best Actor (Hindi) — nominated for Atrangi Re.
  • 2022 — Mirchi Music Critics’ Award, Album of the Year — nominated for Atrangi Re, shared with A.R. Rahman and the musical team.
  • 2023 — Filmfare Award South, Best Actor – Tamil — nominated for Thiruchitrambalam.
  • 2023 — SIIMA Award, Best Actor – Tamil — nominated for Thiruchitrambalam.
  • 2023 — SIIMA Award, Best Male Playback Singer – Tamil — nominated for “Megham Karukkatha” from Thiruchitrambalam.
  • 2024 — Filmfare Award South, Best Actor – Tamil — nominated for Captain Miller.
  • 2024 — SIIMA Award, Best Actor – Telugu — nominated for the Telugu version of Vaathi / Sir.
  • 2025 — SIIMA Award, Best Actor – Tamil — nominated for Raayan.

Dhanush Controversies

Dhanush has mostly been discussed for his film work, but a few legal and public matters involving him have received wide media attention. 

Paternity Case Filed by a Madurai Couple

One of the most reported legal controversies involving Dhanush was a paternity claim filed by a couple from Melur, Madurai. The couple claimed that Dhanush was their biological son and sought monthly maintenance from him.

Dhanush denied the claim. In 2017, the Madurai bench of the Madras High Court dismissed the case filed by the couple. The case was dismissed by the court, giving relief to the actor. Later reports also stated that the Madras High Court dismissed related claims due to a lack of evidence. 

Nayanthara Documentary Copyright Dispute

In late 2024, Dhanush filed a ₹10 crore legal notice for copyright infringement. He alleged that Nayanthara’s Netflix documentary, Nayanthara: Beyond the Fairytale, illegally featured a 3-second behind-the-scenes video clip from the 2015 film Naanum Rowdy Dhaan, which Dhanush had produced via Wunderbar Films. 

Nayanthara hit back with a scathing open letter on Instagram, accusing Dhanush of harboring a deep personal grudge and calling his legal actions an “all-time low”. 

Dhanush proceeded with the civil suit, reducing the sought damages to ₹1 crore, accusing the couple of highly unprofessional on-set behavior during the 2015 shoot. 

Divorce from Aishwaryaa Rajinikanth

Dhanush and filmmaker Aishwaryaa Rajinikanth announced their separation in January 2022 after 18 years of marriage. Their divorce was granted by a Chennai family court on 27 November 2024.

This was a widely reported personal matter rather than a professional controversy. Media reports stated that the couple chose to separate legally and continue focusing on their children. 

The “Suchileaks” Scandal 

In March 2017, the Tamil film industry was rocked when the Twitter handle of popular playback singer and RJ Suchitra began leaking a series of highly private, intimate photographs of various Kollywood celebrities, including Dhanush, Trisha, Andrea Jeremiah, and Anirudh Ravichander. 

Accompanying tweets leveled extreme allegations of misbehavior against Dhanush and his team.

While the leaked media sparked a massive internet frenzy, Suchitra’s family and her then-husband later deactivated the account, clarifying that she was dealing with a severe emotional and mental health crisis and that the claims shouldn’t be taken seriously. Dhanush and the other named celebrities chose to maintain strict public silence on the matter.

The “Beep Song” & Split with Anirudh 

Dhanush and rockstar composer Anirudh Ravichander were an unstoppable duo (famously known as the “D-A” combo) responsible for hits like “Why This Kolaveri Di”. However, their relationship soured heavily during the late 2015 “Beep Song” controversy. An unreleased, leaked track containing highly vulgar and misogynistic lyrics—sung by Silambarasan (Simbu) and allegedly composed by Anirudh—drew immense public outrage and police complaints. Dhanush reportedly distanced himself from Anirudh during this period, leading to a long break in their legendary professional partnership.

The Jagame Thandhiram OTT Dispute

Dhanush had a highly public, passive-aggressive fallout with producer S. Sashikanth over the release of the action thriller film Jagame Thandhiram. While Dhanush was adamant about waiting out the pandemic for a traditional theatrical release, the producer sold the film directly to Netflix. Disgruntled by the decision, Dhanush completely disassociated himself from the movie, refusing to participate in any of its online marketing campaigns or promotional interviews.

Dhanush Net Worth

Below is the estimated net worth and annual salary of Danush:

Net Worth in Dollars Approx$27.6 million (₹230 crore) 
Salary Approx₹3 crore

Dhanush Height, Weight and Physical Stats

Dhanush Height

Below are the height, weight, and physical stats of Danush:

HeightIn centimetres: 168 cm
In meters: 1.68 m
In feet and inches: 5 feet 6 inches 
WeightIn kg: 70 kgs
In lbs: 154 lbs
Body Measurements38-30-11
Hair ColorBlack
Eye ColorBlack

Dhanush Social Media

InstagramInstagram Profile@dhanushkraja
XX (Twitter) Icon@dhanushkraja
FacebookFacebook Profile@DhanushKRaja

Interesting Facts about Dhanush

  • In 2011, Dhanush created history by winning the National Film Award for Best Actor for his raw performance in Aadukalam
  • At just 27 years old, he became the youngest Indian actor ever to win the prestigious honour. 
  • Dhanush comes from a cinema family. His father, Kasthuri Raja, is a film director, and his brother, Selvaraghavan, is also a filmmaker. 
  • Dhanush’s song “Why This Kolaveri Di” (2011) became the first-ever Indian music video to cross 100 million views on YouTube. 
  • Dhanush is a highly gifted lyricist who writes impromptu songs. 
  • He never trained in music, but has sung over 40 tracks 
  • Dhanush is an exceptional director. He has directed major films including Power Paandi (2017), his milestone 50th film Raayan (2024), and Idli Kadai. 
  • Dhanush is a deeply committed vegetarian. His advocacy for a meat-free lifestyle earned him the title of “India’s Hottest Vegetarian Celebrity” by PETA in 2011.
  • He is a self-proclaimed fanatic of legendary music composer Ilaiyaraaja.  

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