Nayanthara

Nayanthara, often hailed as the “Lady Superstar” of South Indian cinema, is one of the most celebrated and highest-paid actresses in the Indian film industry. Born as Diana Mariam Kurian on November 18, 1984, in Thiruvalla, Kerala, she was raised in various parts of India due to her father’s profession in the Indian Air Force. A graduate in English Literature from Marthoma College, Thiruvalla, Nayanthara never initially aspired to become an actress. Her entry into films happened by chance when she was spotted by director Sathyan Anthikad and offered a role in the Malayalam film Manassinakkare (2003), opposite Jayaram.

The film was a commercial success and marked the beginning of her illustrious career. After gaining attention in Malayalam cinema, she ventured into Tamil and Telugu films, soon becoming one of the most sought-after actresses across the South Indian film industries. Her Tamil debut Ayya (2005) and her breakout role in Chandramukhi (2005) opposite Rajinikanth were critical to her rise in Tamil cinema. In Telugu, films like Lakshmi and Dubai Seenu further strengthened her career.

What sets Nayanthara apart is her versatility and ability to handle a wide range of roles — from glamorous heroines to strong, independent women in female-centric films. Over the years, she has starred in multiple hits including Billa, Raja Rani, Maya, Naanum Rowdy Dhaan, Aramm, Kolamaavu Kokila, Imaikkaa Nodigal, and Connect. Notably, her performance in Maya and Aramm received widespread critical acclaim and marked her transition into a bankable solo lead.

Despite being one of the most visible celebrities, Nayanthara has maintained a low personal profile. She was in the news for her relationships with actors Simbu and Prabhu Deva in the past, but both ended in breakups. Later, she began a relationship with director Vignesh Shivan, whom she married in June 2022. The couple welcomed twin sons through surrogacy in October 2022.

Throughout her career, Nayanthara has received numerous awards including Filmfare Awards South, Nandi Awards, and Tamil Nadu State Film Special Prize, among others. She has also been featured in Forbes India’s Celebrity 100 list multiple times. In 2023, she made her Bollywood debut opposite Shah Rukh Khan in Jawan, directed by Atlee, which became one of the highest-grossing Indian films of all time.

Known for her poise, strength, and dedication to her craft, Nayanthara remains a pioneering figure who broke the mold for female leads in Indian cinema. With her career still going strong, she continues to be an icon of talent and empowerment in the film industry.