Dhanush (born 28 July 1983) is an Indian actor, director, producer, singer and lyricist who works mainly in Tamil cinema. He is a two-time winner of the National Film Award for Best Actor. He became an internet sensation with the song “Why This Kolaveri Di” and has also starred in Hindi and Hollywood films.
Quick Facts
| Birth name | Venkatesh Prabhu Kasthuri Raja |
| Born | 28 July 1983, Madras (now Chennai), India |
| Age | 43 |
| Profession | Actor, director, producer, singer, lyricist |
| Family | Father Kasthuri Raja (director); brother Selvaraghavan (director) |
| Children | Yatra, Linga |
| Awards | National Film Award for Best Actor (Aadukalam, Asuran) |
Early Life
Dhanush was born in Chennai to the film director Kasthuri Raja. His elder brother, Selvaraghavan, also became a director. Dhanush first wanted to be a chef, but his family encouraged him into acting while he was still a teenager.
Career
Dhanush made his debut in his father’s Thulluvadho Ilamai (2002). He found success with his brother’s Kaadhal Kondein (2003) and went on to become a leading Tamil star with films such as Polladhavan and Aadukalam (2011), which won him his first National Award for Best Actor.
In 2011 “Why This Kolaveri Di”, a song Dhanush wrote and sang for the film 3, became one of India’s first viral video hits. He made his Hindi debut in Raanjhanaa (2013) and later starred in Atrangi Re and Tere Ishk Mein (2025) with Kriti Sanon. He appeared in the Netflix action film The Gray Man (2022). Asuran (2019) won him a second National Award for Best Actor.
Dhanush directed Pa. Paandi (2017), Raayan (2024) and Idli Kadai (2025). In 2026 he starred in the heist thriller Kara.
Personal Life
Dhanush married Aishwarya, daughter of Rajinikanth, in 2004. They have two sons, Yatra and Linga. The couple separated in 2022 and divorced in 2024.
Selected Filmography
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where was Dhanush born?
Dhanush was born on 28 July 1983 in Madras (now Chennai), India.
What honours has Dhanush received?
National Film Award for Best Actor (Aadukalam, Asuran).
