South
Top 8 South Indian Actors
The South Indian film industry includes Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Malayalam cinema which has always been an amalgamation of talent and creativity. Below are the top 8 South Indian actors who make the South Indian industries brighter. It is hard to imagine the South Indian film industry without them.
1. Ram Charan:
He is an actor, producer, and businessman. Son of Mr. Chiranjeevi, this popular South Indian actor has been Awarded The Filmfare Award for Best Debut Male for his great debut with Chirutha (2007). He is one of the top performers in South India. His 2009 mega-hit, Maghadheera, also won the Telugu language’s highest box office honor up till 2013, earning him the Filmfare Award for Best Actor.
Furthermore, he has been a part of several movies, many of which are Telugu language box office successes. Besides the Filmfare and SIIMA Awards for Best Telugu Actor in 2018, Rangasthalam, his other movie received honors. The leading star is a rider and co-owner of the series Devil’s Circuit and Ram Charan Hyderabad Polo Riding Club. He owns a production company named Konidela Production Company and has made three movies, the first of which was Khiladi No 150. Tej wed Upasana Kamineni-Apollo Charity’s vice-chairman and B Positive magazine’s chief editor.
2. Joseph Vijay Chandrasekhar:
Born on 22 June 1974 Joseph is popularly known as Vijay, he is an Indian actor, dancer, playback singer, and philanthropist who works in Tamil cinema, he has also appeared in other Indian language films. Fans and media call him “Thalapathy” (commander), Vijay is the highest-paid actor in Tamil cinema. He has a worldwide fanbase. His achievements and awards include eight Vijay Awards by Star India, three Tamil Nadu State Film Awards by the Government of Tamil Nadu, and a SIIMA Award. He has been included several times in the Forbes India Celebrity 100 list, based on the earnings of Indian celebrities.
3. Rajinikanth:
A superstar in the Tamil movie industry since the 70s, Rajinikanth is one of the highest-earning actors in Asia. He primarily works in Tamil movies, he has also worked in Hindi, Telugu, Kannada, and Hollywood movies. has a history of working as a bus conductor before he joined the Madras Film Institute. He stepped into the industry with the film Katha Sangama (1976) and worked alongside Apoorva Raagangal (1975). His unique acting style and sign gestures such as flipping a cigarette in the air and catching it with his mouth, have a different fanbase. He has played various roles and successfully stole our hearts. He is known for his expertise in various genres such as action, drama, and comedy. His movies such as Mullum Malarum (1978), Aarilirunthu Arubathuvarai (1979), Johny Ustad (1980) in the 70’s and 80’s to movies such as Kabali (2016) recently, are some great examples of his acting abilities.
4. Dhanush:
Venkatesh Prabhu popularly known by his stage name Dhanush, is an Indian film actor, producer, lyricist, and playback singer who has primarily worked in Tamil cinema. He has won the National Film Award for Best Actor for the Tamil film “Aadukalam” and received international attention for his song “Why This Kolaveri Di”, which further became the most-viewed Indian song on YouTube. As of 2014, he has won five Filmfare Awards. Over the next ten years, Dhanush featured in 25 movies and made his Hindi debut in “Raanjhanaa” in the year 2013.
5. Ghattamaneni Mahesh Babu:
He was born in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. He is the son of prominent Telugu Cinema Actor Krishna and Smt. Indira Devi. He is the younger brother of the actor who later became a producer Ramesh Babu Ghattamaneni. He also has two elder sisters, Padmavathi and actress-producer Manjula Ghattamaneni, and one younger sister Priyadarshini. His childhood was spent mostly in Madras under the care of his paternal grandmother Smt. Durgamma and his family. He studied at St. Bede’s School in Chennai while he attended his dad’s filming during holidays. Mahesh graduated with an Honours Degree in Commerce from Loyola College, Chennai. He started his acting career by playing a small role in his brother Ramesh Babu’s debut film, Needa (1979), at the age of 4. He was later seen in films such as Poratam (1983), Sankharavam (1987), Bazaar Rowdy (1988), Mugguru Kodukulu (1988), Gudachari 117, Koduku Diddina Kapuram (1989), Balachandrudu (1990) and Anna Tammudu (1990). Mahesh Babu acted in seven of his father’s films as a child actor too.
6. Allu Arjun:
Allu Arjun, nicknamed Bunny was born on April 8, 1980. His father is a famous producer and his uncle is one of the top actors in the Telugu industry. He is the grandson of the late comedian Padmashree Allu Ramalingaiah. He is well-known for his different ways of acting and dancing. He is also known for his lifestyle and fashion choices like changing his hair and body for each movie. He has starred in 5 movies so far and all of them are super hits. Even after being a highly gifted actor, Allu Arjun gives back to his community and proves to be a successful role model. Every year on his birthday, he donates blood and attends functions for physically and mentally challenged kids.
7. Suriya:
He is the son of actor Sivakumar and his wife Lakshmi. He is originally from Chennai but was brought up in Coimbatore. He is the eldest of three children; his younger brother Karthi Sivakumar is an actor Karthi and he has a younger sister named Brindha too. He attended PSBB School and St. Bede’s School in Chennai and graduated from Loyola College with a Bachelor of Commerce degree. He was initially offered the lead role by Director Vasanth in his film Aasai (1995), but he rejected the offer. He later debuted in Vasanth’s own 1997 film Nerrukku Ner, produced by Mani Ratnam when he was 22 years of age. His major break in acting came in the form of Nandha, which was directed by Bala, he played the role of an ex-convict who is very attached to his mother, he then received a Tamil Nadu State Film Award for Best Actor.
8. Kamal Haasan:
He was born November 7, 1954, in Paramakudi, Ramanathapuram District, Tamil Nadu. He debuted as a child artist in the film “Kalathoor Kannamma” (1960). Since then, he has been featured in not less than 220 films in the major Indian languages – Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam, and Hindi. He has been in the film industry for more than 60 years. His journey involves him doing various roles – from child artist to romantic lead to one of the most respected and revered heroes of the film industry today.
The above-listed actors have set several milestones in the South Indian film industry. Let us know, From the above-mentioned renowned personalities, who is your favourite actor?
South Indian cinema has come a long way and has many more miles to run. But their brilliant concepts and dramatic actions have led them to grow a lot. Be it the Oscar-winning RRR or the widely acclaimed Kantara, South Indian movies have grown so much that even their Bollywood remakes became blockbusters. Let’s talk about the 10 most acclaimed South Indian movies so that you don’t miss out on any of them :
1. KGF chapter 2 (Disney+ Hotstar):
KGF is a visually stunning historical action film which was released in 2022. It was set in the Kolar Gold Fields. Yash takes the lead as Rocky, a powerful figure who must navigate alliances, enemies, and personal struggles. This is a must-watch with its captivating music and gripping tale.
2. Baahubali (Disney+ Hotstar):
Baahubali released in 2015 is a grand South Indian action adventure set in ancient India, featuring stunning visuals and an epic story about two brothers raised apart who discover their true identities and destinies. The film was shot over three years. The whole movie is based on the question ‘Kattappa ne Baahubali ka kyu maara?’
3. Dear Comrade (Disney+ Hotstar, MX Player):
Dear Comrade is one of the most loved South Indian movies, It is an intense romantic story featuring Vijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandana. It is worth a watch if you enjoy romantic movies with deep passion.
4. Jersey (ZEE 5, Netflix):
It is one of the most inspiring and emotional South Indian movies that centres around a middle-aged man who follows his passion for becoming a cricketer to fulfil a promise to his son. The film commemorates perseverance, family bonds, and the power of not letting go even when it’s hard to hold on.
5. RRR (Disney+ Hotstar, Netflix):
RRR is a South Indian fictional film that centres around two legendary Indian revolutionaries who team up to fight against the Britishers and their oppressive rule. This action-packed drama is a Must-watch!
6. Kantara (Prime Video, Netflix):
Kanatara is a captivating drama which perfectly blends elements of action, mystery, and cultural exploration. This South Indian movie was released in 2022, it delves into the conflict between tradition and development in a coastal community, focusing on the connection between humans and nature.
7. Magadheera (Disney+ Hotstar) :
Ram Charan and Kajal Aggarwal, two great talents of South Indian movies are featured in this masterpiece directed by S.S. Rajamouli. It centres the story of two lovers resurrecting after 400 years, struggling to be together.
8. Vikram Vedha (Disney+ Hotstar):
Vikram Vedha is a South Indian neo-noir thriller. It features two talented and gifted actors, R. Madhavan and Vijay Sethupathi. A police officer looks for Vedha, a murderer and smuggler making it an exciting drama full of surprising elements in it.
9. Kaala (Disney+ Hotstar):
Kaala is a powerful South Indian film which addresses social issues featuring Rajinikanth’s commanding performance gripping action sequences, and impressive music-a must-watch.
10. Sita Ramam (Disney+ Hotstar):
Sita Ramam is one of the most gripping South Indian romantic movies of last year! Let’s explore the journey of Ram, a soldier who is an orphan and how his life is changed after receiving a letter from a mysterious girl named Sita.
11. Makkhi (Disney+ Hotstar):
Be ready to be stunned by the one-of-a-kind concept and amazing visuals of this masterpiece which was provided to us by South Indian cinema. It follows the story of a man who brutally murdered and resurrection as a housefly with a burning desire for revenge.
12. Vadhandhi (Prime Video):
It is a heartwarming and thought-provoking drama about an elderly woman who thinks of handling the situation herself when her granddaughter goes missing. The film commemorates resilience, courage, and the power of community.
South Indian Movies offer a load full of exciting and thrilling dramas, that are hard to miss out on! To all the Hindi-speaking people, grab your popcorn, and draw your blinds because these movies are going to take your breath away!
Long gone are the days when small industries like South Indian movies waited around thinking they might get some recognition because now the world is keenly observing their work and is even waiting for it—south Indian cinema comprises movies in numerous languages like Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Malayalam. Distinctive South Indian movies are highly anticipated in 2024. The top 10 are mentioned below:-
1. The Greatest of All Time:
The Greatest of All Time is one of the most anticipated South Indian movies of 2024. It is Vijay’s next film with Venkath Parbhu their collaboration has been waiting for ever since the director made Mankatha with Ajith. With an amazing cast that includes some of the hit heroes of the 80s like Mohan, Prashanth, Prabhudheva, Laila and Sneha. This one has received widespread attention from Vijay’s fans and even the common masses.
2. Vidaa Muyarchi:
Vidaa Muyarchi is directed by Magizh Thirumeni. Ajith Kumar has been doing one film per year in recent years but his previous South Indian movie, Thunivu (2023), did not perform as well as expected. This film will be Kumar’s and Thirumeni’s first collaboration, hopefully, they will turn things around!
3. Viduthalai Part 2:
This is one of the most highly anticipated South Indian movies, it is a sequel to Vetrimaaran’s acclaimed film Viduthalai and will have its premiere at the International Film Festival Rotterdam. This new chapter continues the story of complex characters, exploring their lives and choices. All set to premiere at the International Film Festival!
4. Kanguva:
One of the greatest actors in South Indian movies, is Suriya. He is joining forces with the pan-India race with this one, directed by Siruthai Siva. The film’s producer, K. E. Gnanavel Raja is highly passionate about this project, as he is planning to dub the film in 38 languages. The vision of this film is still unclear whether it’s an out-and-out period venture or just a portion of it set centuries ago.
5. Thangalaan:
The film was released on January 26. This is another production of K. E. Gnanavel Raja, which has Pa Ranjith and Vikram. The film was set in the Kolar Gold Mines during the pre-independence era and explores themes of politics, land, and ownership. This is Ranjith’s third collaboration with another great actor in South Indian movies, Vikram and producer K. E. Gnanavel Raja, following Madras and Kaala.
6. Captain Miller:
It is a historical action film set in India during the pre-independence era. The film, directed by Arun Matheshwaran and starring Dhanush, follows the story of a rebellious character. The promos hint at themes of resistance against colonial rule.
7. Indian 2:
A highly anticipated film of Kamal Haasan and Shankar, two great talents of the South Indian movie industry, who joined forces after a gap of 25 years, and came close to being kept aside and forgotten about like many of the actor’s projects. The success of Vikram enabled Kamal to reboot the film, which did not perform well. The movie follows the story of a vigilante Senapathy, who killed his son in the first part.
8. Vettaiyan:
It is an upcoming film featuring a star-studded cast, including Rajinikanth, Amitabh Bachchan, Fahadh Faasil, and Rana Daggubati. The film is directed by T.J. Gnanavel Raja. The film has generated excitement among fans, as it brings together renowned actors from different film industries. While the director is known for his serious work, the promo suggests that Vettaiyan will also cater to Rajinikanth’s signature style and crowd-pleasing moments.
9. Guntur Kaaram:
Guntur Kaaram is an upcoming movie starring Mahesh Babu, It marks the reunion of Mahesh Babu and director Trivikram Srinivas after blockbusters Athadu and KhalejaG. The film was released on 12 January 2024.
10) Kalki 2898 AD:
Sci-fi epic film Kalki 2898 AD will be released on 9 May 2024. The upcoming movie has generated a lot of excitement among fans with its recent first-look reveal. Set in the future year 2898, the film features a star-studded cast such as Amitabh Bachchan, Kamal Haasan and Deepika Padukone. And it promises a visually stunning sci-fi experience.
As 2024 unfolds, South Indian cinema promises a captivating journey for us. From historical epics to heartwarming romances, and action-packed thrillers to thought-provoking dramas, Tollywood offers something for everyone. So, grab your popcorn, dim the lights, and get ready to be entertained!
The Tollywood industry encompasses diverse films in languages like Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Kannada, and more. It is a collection of captivating stories. With the rise of OTT platforms, exploring these movies has become easier than ever. Here are 10 highly-acclaimed South Indian films available on different platforms, to start your cinematic journey:
1. Thunivu:
Image credit: Zee Studios
Thunivu is a 2023 Indian action thriller film. The story follows a master thief who plans a daring heist but faces challenges from a relentless police officer and unforeseen circumstances. The movie is known for its suspenseful twists, action sequences, and performances by the lead actors.
2. Ponniyin Selvan 2:
Kaveri is a 2023 epic historical drama film based on the second part of a famous Tamil novel of the same name. It follows the story of Arulmozhi Varman, a prince who must overcome challenges and conflicts to secure his rightful place on the Chola throne. The film is known for its grand visuals, intricate plot, and performances by the lead actors.
3. Veera Simha Reddy:
Image credit: Mythri Movie Makers
Veera Simha Reddy is a 2023 Indian action movie set in the 1980s. The story follows a former soldier named Veera Simha Reddy who returns to his village after serving in the military. He soon finds himself caught in a conflict between two powerful families and must use his skills to protect his loved ones and fight for justice. The movie is known for its high-octane action sequences, emotional moments, and performances by the lead actors.
4. Leo:
The movie Leo tells the story of a man named Parthiban, who runs a cafe and lives peacefully with his family. His past comes back to haunt him when he’s mistaken for a dangerous gangster named Leo. The movie follows Parthiban as he tries to protect his family and clear his name, with action, suspense, and some emotional moments along the way.
5. Bro:
Bro is a 2022 comedy film about three friends who go on a road trip to celebrate a birthday. They have funny adventures and learn more about themselves and each other along the way.
6. 2018:
“2018” tells a story about people from different backgrounds coming together during a major crisis. Set in India, the film follows characters facing the challenges and dangers of a devastating flood. Through their struggles and acts of kindness, they discover the strength of community and the power of working together. While the film includes some intense scenes related to the flood, it focuses on themes of hope, resilience, and the importance of helping others.
7. Bhola Shankar:
Bhola Shankar is a 2023 action movie set in the Indian city of Kolkata. The main character, Shankar, is a taxi driver who moves to the city with his sister. He tries to start a new life but gets tangled up with a dangerous criminal gang. Shankar must use his skills and courage to protect his sister and fight against the gang. The movie includes action scenes, comedy, and some emotional moments.
8. Waltair Veerayya:
Waltair Veerayya revolves around a notorious smuggler who is known for his daring deeds and is offered the chance to win big prizes. He takes on a dangerous mission that lands him in a world of love and secret operations. However, the true nature of the situation and the potential consequences remain shrouded in mystery.
9. Jailer:
Jailer centers around a retired prisoner who has a strong moral compass. He finds himself in the middle of a difficult situation and must use his experience and judgment to navigate the web of intricacies and potential dangers. A Resourceful individual known for their unconventional methods finds themselves in a tight financial spot. An intriguing offer emerges, presenting a chance to solve their problem through a daring and risky task.
10. Virupaksha:
Virupaksha is a 2023 Indian Telugu-language horror thriller film directed by Karthik Varma Dandu. The film tells the story of a fictional village named Rudravanam, which is plagued by a series of mysterious and brutal deaths.
Countless other amazing films are waiting to be discovered on OTT platforms. Dive in and explore the vast world of South Indian cinema for an enriching cinematic experience!