Nayanthara, born Diana Mariam Kurian on November 18, 1984, has become a revered name in Tamil, Telugu, and Malayalam cinema.
With over 75 films to her credit, she has established herself as one of India’s highest-paid actresses. Her historic inclusion as the first South Indian actress on Forbes India’s “Celebrity 100” list further highlights her extraordinary journey. Accolades such as five Filmfare Awards South, a Tamil Nadu State Film Award, a Nandi Award, and seven SIIMA Awards testify to her impact and determination in the industry.
From TV Anchor to Lady Superstar
Before entering the world of cinema, Nayanthara hosted Chamayam, a popular fashion and beauty show on Kairali TV. Her acting career began with Manassinakkare (2003), marking her Malayalam debut. She later ventured into Tamil cinema with Ayya (2005) and Telugu films with Lakshmi (2006). Hits like Chandramukhi, Naanum Rowdy Dhaan, and Viswasam propelled her to stardom. Her Bollywood debut in Jawan, opposite Shah Rukh Khan, added another feather to her cap, with her earning a hefty ₹10 crore for the role. Currently, she resides in Chennai with her husband, director Vignesh Shivan, and their two children, managing a combined net worth of $22 million (₹183 crore).
Nayanthara Off-Screen Work: Humanitarian and Entrepreneur
Nayanthara is not just a star on-screen; she is also a humanitarian deeply committed to social causes. She donated ₹5 lakhs to the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund during Cyclone Thane in 2012 and ₹20 lakhs to support daily-wage workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Her participation in the 2017 pro-Jallikattu demonstrations alongside her husband reflected her passion for Indian cultural values. For the promotion of Annapoorani: The Goddess of Food, she even served biriyani to college students, showcasing her approachable nature.
Her entrepreneurial ventures also highlight her versatility. In 2021, she co-founded The Lip Balm Company with dermatologist Dr. Renita Rajan, focusing on gender-neutral lip care products. Additionally, she launched 9Skin, a luxury skincare brand, and Femi9, a feminine hygiene line. Her endorsements for top brands like Tanishq, Fipola, and GRT Jewellers further emphasize her market appeal. Her grace and elegance have also been showcased in magazines such as Vogue and Elle.
Controversies:
On November 16, 2024, Nayanthara accused Dhanush of harboring resentment over her relationship with Vignesh Shivan during the filming of Naanum Rowdy Dhaan. The situation escalated when Dhanush issued a legal notice demanding ₹10 crore for a 3-second clip used in her Netflix documentary, Nayanthara: Beyond the Fairytale. Despite waiting for two years for Dhanush’s approval, she had to remove the clip, along with related visuals, from the documentary. This episode has drawn attention to the challenges of creative rights and professional relationships in the film industry.
An Icon Beyond the Silver Screen
Nayanthara’s story is one of resilience, talent, and versatility. Her journey from a television anchor to a superstar and her endeavors as a humanitarian and entrepreneur demonstrate her multifaceted personality. She continues to inspire fans and peers alike, leaving an indelible mark on Indian cinema and beyond.