Nayanthara, the "Lady Superstar" of South Indian cinema, celebrates her birthday on November 18, 2025. With a career spanning over two decades, she has become one of the most influential and highest-paid actresses in India. Her journey from a small village in Kerala to becoming a pan-Indian star is an inspiring tale of talent, perseverance, and dedication.
Nayanthara, born Diana Mariam Kurian on November 18, 1984, in Bengaluru, Karnataka, made her acting debut in the 2003 Malayalam film Manassinakkare. The film was a commercial success and provided her with a strong foundation in the industry. She then ventured into Tamil cinema with Ayya in 2005 and subsequently made her Telugu debut with Lakshmi in 2006 and Kannada debut with Super in 2010.
Early in her career, Nayanthara appeared in commercially successful films such as Chandramukhi and Ghajini. In 2011, she portrayed the role of Goddess Sita in the mythological film Sri Rama Rajyam, which earned her the Filmfare Award for Best Actress – Telugu and the Nandi Award for Best Actress. Despite facing personal challenges and public criticism during this period, she returned to the industry after a brief hiatus and delivered a series of hit films.
Nayanthara solidified her position as a leading actress with her performances in films like Raja Rani, Naanum Rowdy Dhaan, and Aramm, winning Filmfare Awards for Best Actress – Tamil for each of these roles. She also received the Filmfare Award for Best Actress – Malayalam for her role in Puthiya Niyamam. These films showcased her versatility and ability to portray diverse characters, from romantic interests to strong, independent women.
Nayanthara has been instrumental in breaking stereotypes associated with female roles in Indian cinema. She has taken on strong, independent characters that challenge traditional gender norms, inspiring many young actresses and audiences alike. Her performances in female-led films like Maya, Dora, Aramm, Kolamavu Kokila, and Netrikann have demonstrated that women-centric films can be both critically acclaimed and commercially successful. She is credited for a change in the Tamil industry, for her performances in women-centric films.
In 2023, Nayanthara made her Bollywood debut with Jawan alongside Shah Rukh Khan. The film's success further cemented her status as a pan-Indian star. With over 75 films to her credit, Nayanthara has received numerous awards and accolades, including five Filmfare Awards South, a Tamil Nadu State Film Award, a Nandi Award, and seven SIIMA Awards.
Beyond her acting career, Nayanthara is also a successful film producer and businesswoman. She owns the production house "Rowdy Pictures" and has invested in various ventures. She was the only South Indian actress to be featured in the Forbes India "Celebrity 100" list in 2018. Nayanthara's success has made her one of the highest-paid actresses in the South Indian film industry, commanding a significant remuneration per film and endorsement deals.
Nayanthara's personal life, including her marriage to director Vignesh Shivan and the birth of their twins, Uyir and Ulag, often garners media attention. She often shares heartwarming family moments on social media, providing fans with a glimpse into her life beyond the screen.
As Nayanthara celebrates her 41st birthday, she has several upcoming projects in the pipeline, including Dear Students, Mana Shankara Vara Prasad Garu, Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups, Mannangatti Since 1960, Mookuthi Amman 2, and Rakkayie. Her journey from a debutante to a celebrated actress is an inspiring tale of perseverance, talent, and unwavering dedication to her craft. She continues to be a force to be reckoned with in Indian cinema, inspiring millions with her versatility, talent, and unwavering spirit.
