Updated On: 27 July, 2025 08:22 PM IST | Athulya Nambiar
On the occasion of Dhanush’s birthday, we celebrate the versatile star who has carved a unique space for himself in Indian cinema with his raw performances, soulful singing, and quiet charisma. From National Awards to viral hits and even Hollywood films, Dhanush’s journey is as surprising as it is inspiring. Here are 15 lesser-known facts about the actor that might just leave you impressed all over again

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His birth name is Venkatesh Prabhu Kasthuri Raja. He adopted the screen name Dhanush inspired by his admiration for martial arts and action films
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Dhanush never intended to become an actor. He wanted to pursue hotel management, but his father (director Kasthuri Raja) persuaded him to try acting. He made his acting debut at the age of 16 in Thulluvadho Ilamai (2002), directed by his father

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Dhanush has won two National Film Awards for Best Actor — for Aadukalam (2010) and Asuran (2019)
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The viral sensation from the film 3 titled Why This Kolaveri Di was penned by Dhanush in just six minutes during a jam session with composer Anirudh Ravichander
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He got featured on Forbes India Celebrity 100 List. Dhanush has repeatedly been listed on Forbes India’s Celebrity 100 list for his consistent success across multiple industries.
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Despite his stardom, Dhanush is known to be shy and deeply private, rarely making personal statements on public platforms

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Though known for Tamil playback singing, Dhanush has sung in Telugu and Hindi as well, showing off his versatile voice
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He was married to Aishwaryaa Rajinikanth, daughter of superstar Rajinikanth. The couple announced their separation in 2022 after 18 years of marriage

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Despite leading a chaotic and busy life handling multiple departments in the movies, he takes time out to cook. He enjoys cooking and often finds it therapeutic, especially South Indian cuisine
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He’s a trained martial artist and has incorporated many of his skills into his action scenes
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Did you know Dhanush started writing lyrics by accident? When a lyricist failed to show up for a recording session one time, the actor took the job upon himself and the rest is history
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He is the first Tamil actor to star in a Hollywood Production. He made his Hollywood debut with The Extraordinary Journey of the Fakir (2018), followed by The Gray Man (2022), alongside Ryan Gosling and Chris Evans