Prakash Raj

Prakash Raj, born on March 26, 1965, in Bangalore, Karnataka, India, is one of the most versatile and accomplished actors in Indian cinema. Known for his intense performances, powerful dialogue delivery, and multilingual acting skills, he has made a significant impact across Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, Malayalam, and Hindi film industries. Prakash Raj started his career as a theatre artist, performing in over 2,000 street theatre plays before entering the television world. His command over dialogue and emotive expressions soon transitioned him into films, where he quickly made a name for himself.

He gained early recognition with Kannada serials like Bisilu Kudure and Guddada Bhootha, but his big break came with the Tamil film Duet (1994), directed by K. Balachander. Prakash Raj became a favorite villain and character actor in South Indian films. He is renowned for playing a wide spectrum of roles—from ruthless antagonists and strict fathers to compassionate mentors and comic characters. Notable performances in films like Iruvar, Antahpuram, Kanchivaram, Singham, Wanted, and Anniyan solidified his position as a pan-Indian actor.

Apart from acting, Prakash Raj is also an acclaimed film producer and director. His production house, Duet Movies, has backed several critically appreciated films. His directorial ventures like Dhoni (2012) showcase his narrative depth and social consciousness. He has won several prestigious awards, including five National Film Awards, multiple Filmfare Awards South, and state awards for his contribution to cinema.

A staunch advocate for social justice and freedom of expression, Prakash Raj is also known for his vocal political views. He has often used his platform to speak out against communalism, corruption, and injustice. In 2019, he contested as an independent candidate in the Indian general elections from Bangalore Central constituency, reflecting his commitment to civic engagement.

Despite controversies and criticism from political and film circles alike, Prakash Raj has remained resilient, letting his work speak for itself. Fluent in multiple languages and respected across industries, he continues to be a towering presence in Indian cinema, celebrated for his gravitas, sincerity, and artistic integrity.