Dhanush Biography: Age, Net Worth, Height, Siblings, Films, Wife, Parents, Nationality

Venkatesh Prabhu Kasthuri Raja, professionally known as Dhanush, is a distinguished Indian actor, filmmaker, lyricist, and playback singer primarily associated with Tamil cinema.

He made his acting debut in 2002 with Thulluvadho Ilamai and garnered critical acclaim for his performances in Kaadhal Kondein (2003) and Aadukalam (2010), the latter earning him the National Film Award for Best Actor.

Expanding his horizons beyond Tamil cinema, Dhanush has also made a mark in Bollywood with films such as Raanjhanaa (2013) and Atrangi Re (2021).

His contributions to the industry have earned him multiple appearances in the Forbes India Celebrity 100 list.

Profile

• Full Name: Venkatesh Prabhu Kasthuri Raja
• Stage Name: Dhanush
• Born: July 28 1983
• Age: 41 years old
• Birthplace: Chennai, India
• Nationality: Indian
• Occupation: Indian actor, filmmaker, lyricist, and playback singer
• Height: 1.68 m
• Parent: Kasthuri Raja ,Vijayalakshmi
• Siblings: Selvaraghavan, Karthika Devi, K. Vimala Geetha
• Spouse: Aishwarya Rajinikanth (m. 2004–2024)
• Children: Yatra Raja
• Relationship: Divorced
• Net Worth: $20 million to $30 million

Early Life And Education

Venkatesh Prabhu Kasthuri Raja, professionally known as Dhanush, was born on July 28, 1983, in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.

He is the son of filmmaker Kasthuri Raja and Vijayalakshmi. His siblings include renowned directors K. Selvaraghavan, Karthika Devi, and K. Vimala Geetha.

While details regarding his formal education remain undisclosed, he hails from a Tamil background and practices Hinduism.

Career

Dhanush made his acting debut in 2002 with Thulluvadho Ilamai, directed by his father, Kasthuri Raja. The film, a sleeper hit, marked the beginning of his journey in the film industry.

His breakthrough came in 2003 with Kaadhal Kondein, directed by his brother, Selvaraghavan, where he delivered a gripping performance as a psychologically disturbed youth.

The film received critical acclaim and established Dhanush as a formidable talent in Tamil cinema. He went on to showcase his versatility in various roles, achieving commercial success with Thiruda Thirudi (2003) while also experiencing setbacks with films like Pudhukottaiyilirundhu Saravanan (2004) and Sullan (2004).

However, he rebounded with the critically acclaimed Pudhupettai (2006) and strengthened his reputation with Polladhavan (2007), directed by Vetrimaaran.

Dhanush’s career reached new heights with Aadukalam (2011), where he portrayed a rooster fight jockey.

His compelling performance earned him the National Film Award for Best Actor, cementing his position as one of the finest actors in the industry.

In 2012, he gained international recognition with the viral song “Why This Kolaveri Di” from the film 3, which became a global sensation.

Expanding his horizons beyond Tamil cinema, he made his Bollywood debut with Raanjhanaa (2013), earning widespread acclaim and the Filmfare Award for Best Male Debut.

He continued experimenting with diverse roles in films like Maryan (2013) and produced the highly successful Velaiilla Pattadhari (2014), a critical and commercial triumph.

His collaborations with industry stalwarts, including Amitabh Bachchan in Shamitabh (2015) and his multifaceted performance in Anegan (2015), further reinforced his status as a leading actor.

In 2017, Dhanush made his directorial debut with Pa Paandi, which received positive reviews and highlighted his filmmaking prowess.

Venturing into international cinema, he starred in the English-language film The Extraordinary Journey of the Fakir (2018).

His powerful performance in Asuran (2019) earned him his second National Film Award for Best Actor, solidifying his place among India’s most distinguished performers.

Despite occasional setbacks with films like Thanga Magan (2015) and Thodari (2016), he remained dominant in Tamil cinema.

As of 2025, Dhanush continues influencing the industry with upcoming projects such as Captain Miller and Raayan, further expanding his illustrious career.

Social Media

• Instagram handle: @dhanushkraja

Personal Life

Dhanush married Aishwarya Rajinikanth, daughter of legendary actor Rajinikanth, from 2004 until their divorce in 2024.

The couple announced their separation in January 2022 and officially finalized their divorce on November 27, 2024, after 18 years of marriage.

They share two sons, Yatra (born 2006) and Linga (born 2010), and continue co-parenting them despite their separation.

While there have been speculations regarding Dhanush’s personal life, including rumors of a possible remarriage, no official confirmation has been made.

Filmography

• Thulluvadho Ilamai (2002)
• Kaadhal Kondein (2003)
• Thiruda Thirudi (2003)
• Pudhukottaiyilirundhu Saravanan (2004)
• Sullan (2004)
• Dreams (2004)
• Devathaiyai Kanden (2005)
• Adhu Oru Kana Kaalam (2005)
• Pudhupettai (2006)
• Polladhavan (2007)
• Yaaradi Nee Mohini (2008)
• Padikkadavan (2009)
• Raanjhanaa (2013)
• Maryan (2013)
• Velaiilla Pattadhari (2014)
• Shamitabh (2015)
• Anegan (2015)
• Maari (2015)
• Thanga Magan (2015)
• Thodari (2016)
• Kodi (2016)
• Pa Paandi (2017)
• Velaiilla Pattadhari 2 (2017)
• The Extraordinary Journey of the Fakir (2018)
• Vaathi (2023)
• Sir (2023)
• Captain Miller (2024)
• Raayan (2024)
• 3 (2012)
• Ethir Neechal (2013)
• Velaiilla Pattadhari (2014)
• Kaaki Sattai (2015)
• Kaaka Muttai (2015)
• Maari (2015)
• Naanum Rowdy Dhaan (2015)
• Thanga Magan (2015)
• Pa Paandi (2017)
• Raayan (2024)
• Nilavaku En Mel Ennadi Kobam (2025) – Upcoming
• Idly Kadai (2025) – Upcoming

Net Worth

Dhanush, a renowned Indian actor and filmmaker, has an estimated net worth of $20 million to $30 million (approximately ₹160 crore to ₹240 crore).

His primary earnings come from acting, while his production company, Wunderbar Films, has contributed significantly to his wealth.

Additionally, he generates income as a playback singer, lyricist, and director, further solidifying his financial success.