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Entertainment • Actor

Dhanush

Dhanush is an Indian actor, filmmaker, lyricist, and playback singer who works primarily in Tamil cinema, with additional work in Hindi and Telugu films.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Dhanush is an Indian actor, filmmaker, lyricist, and playback singer who works primarily in Tamil cinema, with additional work in Hindi and Telugu films. Born Venkatesh Prabhu Kasthuri Raja on 28 July 1983, he is known for a prolific film career and multiple major awards, including National Film Awards. He is also widely recognised for the song "Why This Kolaveri Di" and for acting in both commercial and critically acclaimed films.

Early life

Dhanush was born in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, in 1983. His birth name is Venkatesh Prabhu Kasthuri Raja, and he is associated with a family active in Tamil cinema.

Career

He made his acting debut in Thulluvadho Ilamai (2002) and went on to build a long film career in Tamil cinema. Sources describe him as an actor, filmmaker, lyricist, and playback singer with work in Hindi and Telugu films as well.

Recognition and awards

Dhanush has received major honours, including four National Film Awards, and has been listed multiple times in Forbes India Celebrity 100. His career is also marked by several other film awards and broad commercial success.

Public profile

He became internationally visible after the viral success of "Why This Kolaveri Di". His fame combines acting success, music work, and recognition as one of the highest-paid actors in Tamil cinema.

Key facts

  • Dhanush's birth name is Venkatesh Prabhu Kasthuri Raja.
  • He was born on 28 July 1983 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.
  • He made his acting debut in Thulluvadho Ilamai (2002).
  • He won the National Film Award for Best Actor for Aadukalam.
  • He gained wide attention in 2011 for the song "Why This Kolaveri Di".

Frequently asked questions

Who is Dhanush?
Dhanush is an Indian actor, filmmaker, lyricist, and playback singer best known for work in Tamil cinema.
What is Dhanush's real name?
His birth name is Venkatesh Prabhu Kasthuri Raja.
When was Dhanush born?
He was born on 28 July 1983.
What was Dhanush's film debut?
He made his acting debut in Thulluvadho Ilamai (2002).
What is Dhanush best known for besides acting?
He is also known for "Why This Kolaveri Di", a song that brought him major international attention in 2011.
How many National Film Awards has Dhanush won?
Available sources state that he has won four National Film Awards.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dhanush
    Supports: Birth name, birth date, occupation, industry focus, awards, career overview
  2. IMDb — https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1333687/bio/
    Supports: Birth name, birth date, debut film, National Film Award for Aadukalam, "Why This Kolaveri Di"
  3. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/biography/Dhanush
    Supports: Biographical overview, birth date/place, roles in Tamil and Hindi cinema
  4. BookMyShow — https://in.bookmyshow.com/person/dhanush/3988
    Supports: Debut film, National Film Award recognition, production company association
  5. The Times of India — https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/topic/Dhanush
    Supports: Film debut, song popularity, production company, marriage and family details