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{{short description|Indian actor}}
{{Short description|Indian actor, director and producer (born 1982)}}
{{EngvarB|date=September 2014}}
{{Indian name|Prithviraj|Sukumaran}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=April 2021}}
{{pp-pc}}
{{pp-pc|small=yes}}
{{Use Indian English|date=August 2021}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=November 2020}}
{{Infobox person
{{Infobox person
| name              = Prakash Raj
| name              = Prithviraj Sukumaran
| image              = Prakash Raj at KLF 2018 Kozhikode.jpg
| image              = Prithviraj at Aiyyaa event.jpg
| image size        = 270px
| caption            = Prithviraj in 2012
| caption            = Raj at the 2018 [[Kerala Literature Festival]]
| birth_date        = {{Birth date and age|df=yes|1982|10|16}}
| birth_name        = Prakash Rai<ref name="rai" />
| birth_place        = [[Thiruvananthapuram]], [[Kerala]], India
| birth_date        = {{birth date and age|df=yes|1965|03|26}}<ref name="web.archive.org">[https://web.archive.org/web/20001206120300/http://www.dinakaran.com/cinema/english/cinebio/01-07-00/prakas.htm dinakaran]. Web.archive.org. Retrieved on 10 June 2014.</ref>
| death_date        =
| birth_place        = [[Bangalore district|Bangalore]], [[Mysore State]]<!--Mysore State was renamed to Karnataka only in the year 1973-->, [[India]] (present-day [[Karnataka]])
| death_place        =
| occupation        = {{hlist|Actor|Film producer|director|television presenter|politician}}
| alma_mater        =
| years_active       = 1986–present
| occupation        = {{hlist|Actor|director|producer|playback singer}}
| spouse            = {{ubl|{{marriage|[[Lalitha Kumari]]|1994|2009|reason=divorced}}|{{marriage|[[Pony Verma]]|2010}}}}
| years_active       = 2002–present
| awards             = [[Nandi Awards]], [[Tamil Nadu State Film Awards]], [[Filmfare Awards South]], [[Vijay Awards]], etc.
| works              = [[Prithviraj Sukumaran filmography|Full list]]
| spouse            = {{marriage|Supriya Menon|2011}}
| children          = 1
| father            =
| parents            = [[Sukumaran]] (father) <br /> [[Mallika Sukumaran]] (mother)<ref>{{Cite news |title=Prithviraj Sukumaran calls his mom Mallika Sukumaran 'the strongest woman' he has ever seen |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/malayalam/movies/news/prithviraj-sukumaran-calls-his-mom-mallika-sukumaran-the-strongest-woman-he-has-ever-seen/articleshow/107812591.cms |access-date=2024-09-01 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref>
| mother            =
| organization      = [[Prithviraj Productions]]
| family             = See [[List of South Indian film families#Sukumaran family|Sukumaran family]]
| awards            = [[List of awards and nominations received by Prithviraj Sukumaran|Full list]]
}}


}}
'''Prithviraj Sukumaran''' ([[Help:IPA/Malayalam|/pr̩t̪ʰʋiɾaːd͡ʒ/]]; born 16 October 1982) is an Indian actor, producer, director, and playback singer who primarily works in [[Malayalam cinema|Malayalam]]
[[Malayalam language|language]] and [[Tamil cinema|Tamil]] [[Tamil language|language]] films.<ref name="Actor Prithviraj Info">{{cite web |url=http://www.khaleejtimes.com/citytimes/south-stars/prithviraj-the-directors-actor |title=Prithviraj: The director's actor |publisher=Khaleejtimes.com |date=17 January 2016|access-date=10 June 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160624035755/http://www.khaleejtimes.com/citytimes/south-stars/prithviraj-the-directors-actor|archive-date=24 June 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> Having appeared in over [[Prithviraj Sukumaran filmography|100 films]], Prithviraj is among the highest paid Malayalam actors.<ref name="PS1">{{Cite web |title=Mammootty to Mohanlal: Highest paid actors in the Malayalam film industry |access-date=21 August 2022 |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/malayalam/movies/news/mammootty-to-prithviraj-sukumaran-highest-paid-actors-in-the-malayalam-film-industry/amp_etphotostory/92878791.cms |work=[[The Times of India]] |date=14 July 2022 |archive-date=14 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231014083321/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/malayalam/movies/news/mammootty-to-prithviraj-sukumaran-highest-paid-actors-in-the-malayalam-film-industry/amp_etphotostory/92878791.cms |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="PS2">{{Cite news |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/entertainment/entertainment-news/2020/06/03/mohanlal-mammootty-highest-paid-malayalam-actors-top-list.html |access-date=28 November 2022 |title=Highest paid Malayalam actors, check who tops the list |work=[[Onmanorama]] |archive-date=29 December 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221229050820/https://www.onmanorama.com/entertainment/entertainment-news/2020/06/03/mohanlal-mammootty-highest-paid-malayalam-actors-top-list.amp.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last= |first= |date= |title=What does Bollywood have against the south Indian hero? |url=https://www.firstpost.com/entertainment/what-does-bollywood-have-against-the-south-indian-hero-503929.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170220005458/http://www.firstpost.com/entertainment/what-does-bollywood-have-against-the-south-indian-hero-503929.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=2017-02-20|access-date= |work=First Post}}</ref> His accolades include a [[National Film Award]], four [[Kerala State Film Awards]], a [[Tamil Nadu State Film Award]] and two [[Filmfare Awards South|Filmfare Award South]].<ref name="Prithviraj 80 films">{{cite news |url=http://www.deccanherald.com/content/332595/archives.php |title=Can now afford to slow down my career in south: Prithviraj |newspaper=[[Deccan Herald]] |date=15 May 2013|access-date=10 June 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170213195811/http://www.deccanherald.com/content/332595/archives.php|archive-date=13 February 2017|url-status=live}}</ref>


'''Prakash Raj''' (born '''Prakash Rai'''; 26 March 1965) is an Indian actor, film director, producer, television presenter, activist, and politician. Known for his works in the [[South Indian film industry]] and [[Hindi]]-language films, he is recipient of [[List of awards and nominations received by Prakash Raj|several accolades]], including five [[National Film Awards]], six [[Nandi Awards]], eight [[Tamil Nadu State Film Awards]], five [[Filmfare Awards South]], four [[South Indian International Movie Awards|SIIMA Awards]], three [[CineMAA Awards]], and three [[Vijay Awards]].
Prithviraj made his acting debut with the 2002 film ''[[Nandanam (film)|Nandanam]]''.<ref name="Road to stardom">{{cite news |first1=R. K. |last1=Roshni |url=https://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-features/tp-metroplus/on-the-road-to-stardom/article28241857.ece |title=On the road to stardom |newspaper=[[The Hindu]] |url-access=subscription |date=13 May 2004 |access-date=25 January 2024}}<!-- SAME ARTICLE, BUT DIFFERENT URL AND DATE: {{cite news |url=http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/mp/2004/05/10/stories/2004051002190100.htm |title=On the road to stardom |first1=R. K. |last1=Roshni |date=10 May 2004 |access-date=25 November 2008 |location=Chennai, India |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101015103119/http://hindu.com/thehindu/mp/2004/05/10/stories/2004051002190100.htm |archive-date=15 October 2010 |newspaper=[[The Hindu]] |url-status=dead}}--></ref> After starring in a few box-office failures, he made a comeback with ''[[Classmates (2006 film)|Classmates]]'' (2006), [[List of highest-grossing Malayalam films|the highest-grossing Malayalam film]] of the year, and became the youngest recipient of [[Kerala State Film Award for Best Actor]] for ''[[Vaasthavam]]'' (2006). He then played a musician in the Tamil romantic comedy ''[[Mozhi (film)|Mozhi]]'' (2007) and ventured into playback singing with ''[[Puthiya Mugham]]'' (2009) before earning his second Kerala State Film Award for Best Actor for the medical drama ''[[Ayalum Njanum Thammil]]'' (2012) and the biographical film ''[[Celluloid (film)|Celluloid]]'' (2013).<ref name="ibnlive.in.com">{{Cite web |url=http://ibnlive.in.com/news/celluloid-actor-prithviraj-bags-the-kerala-state-film-awards/374503-71-210.html |title=Celluloid actor Prithviraj bags the Kerala State Film Awards |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20130328073732/http://ibnlive.in.com/news/celluloid-actor-prithviraj-bags-the-kerala-state-film-awards/374503-71-210.html |archivedate=28 March 2013 |url-status=dead |website=IBNLive.in.com |date=22 February 2012 |accessdate=22 February 2012}}</ref>


After working in stage shows and television in [[Kannada]] for a few years, Raj ventured into films. He made his debut in [[Tamil cinema]] through ''[[Duet (1994 film)|Duet]]'' (1994), by [[K. Balachander]], and has since been a commercially successful film star in Tamil. In remembrance, he named his production company [[Duet Movies]].<ref>[http://www.hindu.com/mp/2004/06/08/stories/2004060800210100.htm 'I cannot allow love to rule my thoughts'] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130927234958/http://www.hindu.com/mp/2004/06/08/stories/2004060800210100.htm |date=27 September 2013 }}, hindu.com, 8 June 2004.</ref><ref>[http://www.thehindu.com/arts/cinema/article582088.ece Catching them young!] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121026004110/http://www.thehindu.com/arts/cinema/article582088.ece |date=26 October 2012 }}, Malathi Rangarajan, 19 August 2010 ''The Hindu''</ref> Apart from his mother tongue [[Kannada language|Kannada]], Prakash Raj's fluency in [[Tamil language|Tamil]], [[Telugu language|Telugu]], [[Malayalam]], [[Marathi language|Marathi]], [[Hindi]] and English has placed him among the most sought after actors in [[Cinema of India|Indian cinema]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/mangaluru/prakash-rai-responds-to-detractors/articleshow/62213495.cms|title=Prakash Rai responds to detractors &#124; Mangaluru News – Times of India|website=The Times of India|access-date=20 September 2020|archive-date=24 December 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191224120758/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/mangaluru/prakash-rai-responds-to-detractors/articleshow/62213495.cms|url-status=live}}</ref>
In 2010, Prithviraj became a producer and joined the production company August Cinema. He co-produced and headlined ''[[Urumi (film)|Urumi]]'' and ''[[Indian Rupee (film)|Indian Rupee]]'' (both 2011); the latter won the [[National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Malayalam]] and [[Kerala State Film Award for Best Film]].<ref name="Producer Prithviraj">{{cite web |url=http://www.sify.com/movies/prithviraj-turns-producer-with-urumi-news-malayalam-kkfqkfjeggcsi.html |title=Prithviraj turns producer with Urumi |website=[[Sify]] |date=17 July 2010|access-date=10 June 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160803122307/http://www.sify.com/movies/prithviraj-turns-producer-with-urumi-news-malayalam-kkfqkfjeggcsi.html|archive-date=3 August 2016|url-status=dead}}</ref> He won the [[Tamil Nadu State Film Award for Best Villain]] for ''[[Kaaviya Thalaivan (2014 film)|Kaaviya Thalaivan]]'' (2014) and had further success with ''[[Ennu Ninte Moideen]]'' (2015) and ''[[Ezra (2017 film)|Ezra]]'' (2017). After leaving August Cinema in 2017, he launched Prithviraj Productions independently that first produced ''[[9 (2019 film)|9]]'' (2019). Prithviraj made his directorial debut with ''[[Lucifer (2019 Indian film)|Lucifer]]'' (2019), which became one of the [[List of highest-grossing Indian films#Malayalam|highest-grossing Malayalam film]]s. He has since achieved critical and commercial success with Malayalam films ''[[Driving Licence (film)|Driving License]]'' (2019), ''[[Ayyappanum Koshiyum]]'' (2020), ''[[Jana Gana Mana (2022 film)|Jana Gana Mana]]'' (2022), ''[[Kaduva]]'' (2022), ''[[The Goat Life]]'' (2024) and ''[[Guruvayoor Ambalanadayil]]'' (2024) and the Telugu film ''[[Salaar: Part 1 – Ceasefire|Salaar]]'' (2023).<ref>{{Cite news |title='Jana Gana Mana' box office collection day 26: Prithviraj starrer enters the 50-crore club  |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/malayalam/movies/news/jana-gana-mana-box-office-collection-day-26-prithviraj-starrer-enters-the-50-crore-club/articleshow/91784242.cms |access-date=2022-06-06 |website=[[The Times of India]]|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title= വമ്പൻ ഹിറ്റായി ഗുരുവായൂര്‍ അമ്പലനടയില്‍, കളക്ഷനില്‍ വിദേശത്തും കുതിപ്പ് |url= https://www.asianetnews.com/entertainment/box-office/prithvirajs-guruvayoor-ambalanadayils-overseas-collection-report-out-hrk-sfknf7|date=24 June 2024 |website=[[Asianet News]]|language=ml }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-04-15 |title=Aavesham and Varshangalkku Shesham Box Office: Vishu releases continue the glory streak of Mollywood; Read on |url=https://www.pinkvilla.com/entertainment/box-office/aavesham-and-varshangalkku-shesham-box-office-vishu-releases-continue-the-glory-streak-of-mollywood-read-on-1295693 |website=PinkVilla |language=en |access-date=15 April 2024 |archive-date=15 April 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240415123848/https://www.pinkvilla.com/entertainment/box-office/aavesham-and-varshangalkku-shesham-box-office-vishu-releases-continue-the-glory-streak-of-mollywood-read-on-1295693 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=5 January 2024|title=Salaar Worldwide Box Office Update|url=https://www.boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=8249|website=[[Box Office India]]|language=en}}</ref>


A [[polyglot]], he played a variety of roles, most notably as the antagonist and, of late, as a character actor. Prakash, as an actor has won a [[National Film Award for Best Supporting Actor]] in 1998 for [[Mani Ratnam]]'s ''[[Iruvar]]'', a [[National Film Award – Special Mention (feature film)|National Film Award – Special Mention]] for the Telugu film ''[[Antahpuram]]'', directed by [[Krishna Vamsi]] in 1998<ref>{{cite web|title=46th National Film Festival 1999, pg 82|url=http://dff.nic.in/2011/46_nff_1999.pdf|publisher=nic.in|access-date=4 March 2016|archive-date=10 March 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160310180429/http://dff.nic.in/2011/46_nff_1999.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref> and a [[National Film Award for Best Actor]] in 2007 for his role in ''[[Kanchivaram]]'', a Tamil film directed by [[Priyadarshan]],<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pib.nic.in/archieve/others/2009/sep/r2009090707.pdf|title=55th National Film Awards for the Year 2007|publisher=Press Information Bureau ([[Govt. of India]])|access-date=9 September 2009|archive-date=7 October 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091007125534/http://pib.nic.in/archieve/others/2009/sep/r2009090707.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref>
== Early life and education  ==
Prithviraj Sukumaran was born on 16 October 1982<ref name=birthday>{{cite news |url=http://www.hindu.com/mp/2009/10/15/stories/2009101550960100.htm |title=Prithviraj on a Roll (Turns 27) |date=15 October 2009 |location=Chennai, India|access-date=12 July 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100127001252/http://www.hindu.com/mp/2009/10/15/stories/2009101550960100.htm|archive-date=27 January 2010 |newspaper=[[The Hindu]]|url-status=dead}}</ref> to the actors [[Sukumaran]] and [[Mallika Sukumaran]] in [[Thiruvananthapuram]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Hope I make you proud: Prithviraj on father Sukumaran's death anniversary |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/entertainment/entertainment-news/2020/06/16/prithviraj-on-father-sukumaran-death-anniversary-post.html|access-date=2021-01-26 |website=OnManorama |date=15 June 2020 |archive-date=17 April 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210417021559/https://www.onmanorama.com/entertainment/entertainment-news/2020/06/16/prithviraj-on-father-sukumaran-death-anniversary-post.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/topic/Prithviraj-Sukumaran/news |title=Latest News of Prithviraj Sukumaran |newspaper=[[The Times of India]]|access-date=3 October 2022|archive-date=20 February 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230220233339/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/topic/Prithviraj-Sukumaran/news|url-status=live}}</ref> Prithviraj hails from the well-known [[Nair|Nair family]] of south Kerala known as Kainikkara, the same family to which the famous Malayali authors [[Kainikkara Padmanabha Pillai]] and [[Kainikkara Kumara Pillai]] belonged.<ref>{{Cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?si=BK7tDuzaTQ8rvtzm&v=JJjD6mczrmM&feature=youtu.be |title='ഞാന്‍ ഉദേശിച്ച രീതിയിലുള്ള കുടുംബ ജീവിതമായിരുന്നില്ല അത്'; ജീവിതം പറഞ്ഞ് മല്ലിക |date=2022-04-14 |last=Manorama News |access-date=2025-04-20 |via=YouTube}}</ref> His maternal grandfather, Madhavan Pillai, was also a [[Gandhi]]an and political activist who supported the [[Indian National Congress]].<ref>{{Cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?si=BK7tDuzaTQ8rvtzm&v=JJjD6mczrmM&feature=youtu.be |title='ഞാന്‍ ഉദേശിച്ച രീതിയിലുള്ള കുടുംബ ജീവിതമായിരുന്നില്ല അത്'; ജീവിതം പറഞ്ഞ് മല്ലിക |date=2022-04-14 |last=Manorama News |access-date=2025-04-20 |via=YouTube}}</ref> His family was settled in Tamil Nadu at the time, where he attended Shrine Vailankanni School in T. Nagar, Chennai, and St. Joseph's Boys School, [[Coonoor]].<ref>{{cite web |title=പ്രിത്വിക്കു നൊന്ത്തൽ ഇന്ദ്രന് വേദനിക്കും:Interview with Mallika Sukumaran |url=https://www.facebook.com/nanaweekly/photos/pb.299431426750557.-2207520000.1445046810./1213588225334868/?type=3&theater |publisher=nanaonline.in|access-date=17 October 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160117124316/https://www.facebook.com/nanaweekly/photos/pb.299431426750557.-2207520000.1445046810./1213588225334868/?type=3&theater|archive-date=17 January 2016|url-status=live}}</ref>  


As a producer, he has won a [[National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Kannada]] for ''[[Puttakkana Highway]]'', directed by his long-time theatre friend B. Suresh in 2011. Prakash was also the host of ''[[Neengalum Vellalam Oru Kodi]]'' during the show's second season.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Raghavan |first=Nikhil |date=14 February 2013 |title=The game changer |url=https://www.thehindu.com/features/metroplus/the-game-changer/article4414954.ece |website=[[The Hindu]]}}</ref>
When his family moved to Kerala, he attended the NSS Public School, in [[Perunthanni]], [[Trivandrum]].<ref>{{cite web |title=പൃഥ്വിയ്ക്ക് എന്തെങ്കിലും വിഷമമുണ്ടായാല് ഇന്ദ്രനാണ് ദുഃഖം :Interview with Mallika Sukumaran |date=16 October 2015 |url=http://malayalam.filmibeat.com/interviews/malika-sukumaran-about-indrajith-prithviraj-025468.html |publisher=malayalam.oneindia.com|access-date=17 October 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151017084051/http://malayalam.filmibeat.com/interviews/malika-sukumaran-about-indrajith-prithviraj-025468.html|archive-date=17 October 2015|url-status=live}}</ref> He then moved to St. Mary's Residential Central School in [[Poojappura]] where he acted in plays and skits for the school's annual day celebrations. He completed his education at [[Sainik School, Kazhakootam]], and [[Bhavan's Senior Secondary School, Kodunganoor]] in Thiruvananthapuram.


==Personal life==
After school, he enrolled in a bachelor's degree in Information Technology at the University of Tasmania in [[Australia]] but did not complete it. His highest level of education is [[Higher Secondary Certificate|higher secondary]] (+2) education.<ref>{{cite web |title=Prithviraj's inspiring speech on acting goes viral |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/entertainment/entertainment-news/2019/07/22/prithviraj-inspiring-speech-for-event-students-video-acting.html |website=Onmanorama |date=22 July 2019 |access-date=7 April 2025}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=https://youtube.com/shorts/4C0z_n1G7OI?si=RU0MsrNu_1gXPzqZ | title=ഞാൻ ഗ്രാഡ്ജുയേറ്റ് അല്ല. എനിക്ക് എഡ്യൂക്കേഷണൽ ക്വാളിഫിക്കേഷൻ ഇല്ല #prithviraj | website=[[YouTube]] }}</ref> During this time, he auditioned for film director Ranjith and won the lead role in the film ''[[Nandanam (film)|Nandanam]]''.<ref name="Road to stardom" /> It was film director [[Fazil (director)|Fazil]] who introduced him to Ranjith.<ref name="Road to stardom" /> His elder brother, [[Indrajith Sukumaran]], and sister-in-law, [[Poornima Indrajith]], are also film actors.
Prakash Raj was born in [[Bangalore]] on 26 March 1965<ref name="web.archive.org"/><ref name="hindu.com">{{cite news|date=8 June 2004|title=I cannot allow love to rule my thoughts|url=http://www.hindu.com/mp/2004/06/08/stories/2004060800210100.htm|url-status=dead|access-date=6 December 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130927234958/http://www.hindu.com/mp/2004/06/08/stories/2004060800210100.htm|newspaper=[[The Hindu]]|archive-date=27 September 2013}}</ref><ref name=Openheart>{{cite web |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xVhfzqkk3Ho |title=Prakash Raj Openheart with RK ABN Andhrajyothy |publisher=YouTube |date=6 November 2011 |access-date=6 December 2013 |archive-date=5 December 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131205203529/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xVhfzqkk3Ho |url-status=live }}</ref> to a [[Tulu people|Tulu]] father and a [[Kannada people|Kannada]] mother.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5w1TamfyaiY&t=107 |title=Archived copy |access-date=2 March 2020 |archive-date=11 October 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201011181856/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5w1TamfyaiY&t=107 |url-status=live }}</ref>


His brother is Prasad Raj, who is also an actor.<ref name=Openheart/><ref>[http://www.indiaglitz.com/prakash-raj-s-brother-debuts-in-kollywood-tamil-news-60295 Prakash Raj's brother debuts in Kollywood&nbsp;– Tamil Movie News] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141006215859/http://www.indiaglitz.com/prakash-raj-s-brother-debuts-in-kollywood-tamil-news-60295 |date=6 October 2014 }}. Indiaglitz.com (23 September 2010). Retrieved on 10 June 2014.</ref> He completed schooling at [[St. Joseph's Indian High School]] and joined [[St. Joseph's College of Commerce]], Bangalore. Prakash Raj changed his surname to 'Raj' upon prominent Tamil film director [[K. Balachander]]'s advice;<ref name="rai">{{Cite web|title=I stopped taking life for granted after my son's death: Prakash Raj – Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/i-stopped-taking-life-for-granted-after-my-sons-death-prakash-raj/articleshow/20987660.cms|access-date=14 January 2021|website=The Times of India|language=en}}</ref> he is still called Prakash Rai in his home state, [[Karnataka]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bengaluru/not-getting-hindi-film-offers-after-criticising-modi-prakash-rai/articleshow/64035135.cms|title=Prakash Raj: Not getting Hindi film offers after criticising Modi &#124; Bengaluru News – Times of India|website=The Times of India|access-date=20 September 2020|archive-date=7 May 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180507190759/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bengaluru/not-getting-hindi-film-offers-after-criticising-modi-prakash-rai/articleshow/64035135.cms|url-status=live}}</ref>
== Career ==


Prakash Raj married actress Lalitha Kumari in 1994. They had two daughters, Meghana and Pooja, and a son, Sidhu who died in 2004.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thaindian.com/newsportal/entertainment/prakashraj-and-pony-verma-get-married_100418359.html|title=Prakashraj and Pony Verma get married|work=Thaindian News|access-date=27 August 2010|archive-date=6 October 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111006162737/http://www.thaindian.com/newsportal/entertainment/prakashraj-and-pony-verma-get-married_100418359.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2004-03-21/hyderabad/28342135_1_sidhu-actor-prakash-raj-chennai |title=Actor Prakash Raj's son dies |date=21 March 2004 |access-date=25 July 2011 |archive-date=1 July 2012 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120701131932/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2004-03-21/hyderabad/28342135_1_sidhu-actor-prakash-raj-chennai |newspaper=[[The Times of India]] |url-status=dead }}</ref> The couple divorced in 2009.<ref name="Prakash Raj Granted Divorce">{{cite news | url=http://in.movies.yahoo.com/news-detail/71841/Prakashraj-granted-divorce.html | title=Prakash Raj Granted Divorce | date=19 November 2009 | publisher=Yahoo! India | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091123082954/http://in.movies.yahoo.com/news-detail/71841/Prakashraj-granted-divorce.html | archive-date=23 November 2009 | df=dmy-all }}</ref>
=== Debut and career struggles (2002–2008) ===
In 2001, Prithviraj underwent a screen-test by director Fazil for one of his projects. Even though that project never materialised, Fazil recommended him to director Ranjith, who was planning his second directorial, ''[[Nandanam (film)|Nandanam]]'' (2002), Prithviraj underwent screen-test for the role and got selected. Though ''Nandanam'' was the first film that Prithviraj acted in, it was released after ''[[Nakshathrakkannulla Rajakumaran Avanundoru Rajakumari]]'' and ''[[Stop Violence]]''. Prithviraj then appeared in films directed by [[Lohithadas]], [[Vinayan]], [[Kamal (director)|Kamal]] and [[Bhadran (director)|Bhadran]]. [[Shyamaprasad]], who cast him as the lead in his film ''[[Akale]]'', said that Prithviraj's advantages are his talent and intelligence irrespective of his box office successes.<ref name="Advantage">{{cite news |url=http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/fr/2005/10/07/stories/2005100700280100.htm |title=Advantage Prithviraj |first1=Vijay |last1=George |date=7 October 2005 |access-date=27 November 2008 |location=Chennai, India |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101014140338/http://hindu.com/thehindu/fr/2005/10/07/stories/2005100700280100.htm |archive-date=14 October 2010 |newspaper=[[The Hindu]] |url-status=dead}}</ref>
[[File:Prithviraj Sukumaran in the set of Classmates (2006) with a fan.jpg|thumb|left|Prithviraj in 2005|250x250px]]
In 2005, Prithviraj Sukumaran debuted in [[Tamil language|Tamil]] cinema through ''[[Kana Kandaen]]''.<ref>{{Cite news |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/Prithiviraj-is-a-bad-man/articleshow/3255279.cms |title=Prithiviraj is a bad man! |newspaper=[[The Times of India]] |date=21 July 2008 |access-date=26 November 2023 |archive-date=15 July 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230715131038/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/prithiviraj-is-a-bad-man/articleshow/3255279.cms |url-status=live}}</ref> He starred in Director Santosh Sivan’s ''[[Anandabhadram]]'' in which he portrayed a character called Anandan who is a young NRI who likes his mother’s native village, a place known for powerful wizards and go through several human emotions.<ref name="auto">{{Cite web |date=2024-10-16 |title=Prithviraj @ 42: 7 movies to watch on the Malayalam star's birthday |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/malayalam/prithviraj-42-7-movies-to-watch-on-the-malayalam-stars-birthday-9622475/lite/ |access-date=2024-11-02 |website=The Indian Express |language=en}}</ref> In 2006, Prithviraj co-starred with actor [[K. Bhagyaraj|Bhagyaraj's]] daughter [[Saranya Bhagyaraj]] in ''[[Parijatham (2006 film)|Parijatham]]''. It became an acclaimed film.<ref>{{cite web |title='Parijatham' is a hit! |url=http://www.sify.com/movies/parijatham-is-a-hit-news-tamil-kkfvjMibjifsi.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924191340/http://www.sify.com/movies/parijatham-is-a-hit-news-tamil-kkfvjMibjifsi.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=24 September 2015 |website=[[Sify]] |date=14 June 2006}}</ref>


Later, he married choreographer [[Pony Verma]] on 24 August 2010.<ref>{{cite web|title=Prakash Raj marriage with Pony Verma|url=http://www.supergoodmovies.com/8001/tollywood/prakash-raj-marriage-with-pony-verma-news-details|publisher=www.supergoodmovies.com|access-date=20 January 2013|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130227021833/http://www.supergoodmovies.com/8001/tollywood/prakash-raj-marriage-with-pony-verma-news-details|archive-date=27 February 2013}}</ref> They have a son, Vedhanth born in 2015.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.indiaglitz.com/little-hero-vedhanth-big-villain-prakash-raj-telugu-news-169056.html|title=Little hero Vedhanth, big villain Prakash Raj – Telugu News|date=13 October 2016|website=IndiaGlitz.com|access-date=20 September 2020|archive-date=9 April 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190409184921/https://www.indiaglitz.com/little-hero-vedhanth-big-villain-prakash-raj-telugu-news-169056.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.andhraheadlines.com/news/movies/163060/sunday-spl-cute-vedanths-picture|title=Cute Vedanth's picture – Andhra Headlines|access-date=11 July 2017|archive-date=1 December 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171201032019/http://www.andhraheadlines.com/news/movies/163060/sunday-spl-cute-vedanths-picture|url-status=dead}}</ref>
In 2006, he played the role of Sub Inspector Solomon Joseph in ''[[Vargam]]'', and then appeared in the film ''[[Vaasthavam]]'', for which he received the [[Kerala State Film Award for Best Actor]].<ref name="Kerala State film awards 2006">{{cite news |url=http://www.hindu.com/2007/02/10/stories/2007021016120100.htm |title=State film awards announced |date=10 February 2007 |access-date=24 November 2008 |location=Chennai, India |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110629031423/http://www.hindu.com/2007/02/10/stories/2007021016120100.htm |archive-date=29 June 2011 |newspaper=[[The Hindu]] |url-status=dead}}</ref> He was the youngest actor to win the award.<ref name="Interview : Prithviraj">{{cite news |url=http://www.hinduonnet.com/fr/2007/02/16/stories/2007021600720100.htm |title=Portrait of a winner |newspaper=[[The Hindu]] |first1=Vijay |last1=George |date=16 February 2007 |access-date=24 November 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100825203027/http://www.hinduonnet.com/fr/2007/02/16/stories/2007021600720100.htm |archive-date=25 August 2010 |url-status=dead}}</ref> The same year he starred in [[Lal Jose]]'s ''[[Classmates (2006 film)|Classmates]]''. The coming-of-age romantic comedy-drama was one of the biggest hits of his career.<ref name="auto"/> In 2007, he starred in ''[[Chocolate (2007 film)|Chocolate]]'', directed by Shafi.<ref name="Chocolate Review">{{cite web |url=http://inhome.rediff.com/cms/print.jsp?docpath=//movies/2007/oct/15chocolate.htm |title=Prithviraj shines in Chocolate and classmates |publisher=Rediff |first1=Paresh |last1=Palicha |date=15 October 2007 |access-date=10 December 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081209021442/http://inhome.rediff.com/cms/print.jsp?docpath=%2F%2Fmovies%2F2007%2Foct%2F15chocolate.htm |archive-date=9 December 2008 |url-status=live}}</ref> In 2007, Prithviraj co-starred Jyothika in ''[[Mozhi (film)|Mozhi]]''. He also starred in ''[[Satham Podathey]]'' and ''[[Kannamoochi Yenada]]'' in the same year.


Prakash Raj identifies himself an atheist.<ref name="forgranted">{{cite news|date=10 July 2013|title=I stopped taking life for granted after my son's death: Prakash Raj|url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2013-07-10/news-interviews/40491192_1_negative-roles-prakash-rai-prakash-raj|url-status=dead|access-date=6 December 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140109082909/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2013-07-10/news-interviews/40491192_1_negative-roles-prakash-rai-prakash-raj|newspaper=[[The Times of India]]|archive-date=9 January 2014}}</ref>
In 2008, he starred in ''[[Thalappavu]]'', (directed by [[Madhupal]]) and ''[[Thirakkatha]]'' (directed by Ranjith), playing pivotal characters in both. One of the reviews of ''Thalappavu'' describes it as the coming-of-age film for prithviraj describing the "spartan dignity" he brought to his portrayal of the Naxalite Joseph.<ref name="Thalappavu Review">{{cite web |url=http://nowrunning.com/movie/reviews/moviereview.aspx?movie=4489&rid=1808 |title=Thalappavu Review |publisher=Nowrunning.com |date=15 September 2008 |access-date=10 December 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110714210617/http://www.nowrunning.com/movie/reviews/moviereview.aspx?movie=4489&rid=1808 |archive-date=14 July 2011 |url-status=dead}}</ref> The Sify review of ''Thirakkatha'' describes it as a "genuine attempt that keeps the viewer engaged until the end".<ref name="Thirakkatha Review">{{cite web |url=http://sify.com/movies/malayalam/review.php?id=14757489&ctid=5&cid=2428 |title=Thirakkadha |website=[[Sify]] |access-date=10 December 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110811185203/http://www.sify.com/movies/malayalam/review.php?id=14757489&ctid=5&cid=2428 |archive-date=11 August 2011 |url-status=dead}}</ref> Both ''Thalappavu'' and ''Thirakkatha'' shared the award for the best film in the Film Critics Award for 2008.  In 2008, Prithviraj starred in ''[[Vellithirai]]'', the Tamil remake of ''[[Udayananu Tharam]]''. [[Rediff.com|''Rediff'']] described, "Prithviraj ... makes the best of his assets – his expressive eyes, which glint in fury, soften with love, or brim over with frustrated tears."<ref>[http://www.rediff.com/movies/2008/mar/07ssvel.htm Vellithirai is worth watching] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090804172949/http://www.rediff.com/movies/2008/mar/07ssvel.htm|date=4 August 2009}}. Rediff.com. Retrieved on 5 December 2010.</ref>


==Film career==
=== Established actor (2009–2012) ===
{{main|Prakash Raj filmography}}
In 2009, the success of Prithviraj Sukumaran's ''[[Puthiya Mugham]]'' (directed by [[Diphan]]) was a major turning point in the actor's career and led to him being branded as a superstar.<ref>[http://sify.com/movies/malayalam/fullstory.php?id=14906803&cid=14625530 Kerala Box- office (25 July – 25 Aug)] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150225123316/http://www.sify.com/movies/malayalam/fullstory.php?id=14906803&cid=14625530 |date=25 February 2015 }}. Sify.com (26 August 2009). Retrieved on 5 December 2010.</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.hindu.com/fr/2009/08/28/stories/2009082851450100.htm |location=Chennai, India |title=New superstar on the block |date=28 August 2009 |access-date=29 August 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101129163311/http://www.hindu.com/fr/2009/08/28/stories/2009082851450100.htm |archive-date=29 November 2010 |newspaper=[[The Hindu]] |url-status=dead}}</ref> His other releases in 2009 were ''[[Robin Hood (2009 film)|Robin Hood]]'' (directed by Joshy) and the [[anthology film]] ''[[Kerala Cafe]]''. In 2010, Sukumaran's notable films were ''[[Pokkiri Raja (2010 film)|Pokkiri Raja]]'' and ''[[Anwar (2010 film)|Anwar]]'', directed by [[Amal Neerad]]. He played the antagonist in [[Mani Ratnam]]'s ''[[Raavanan (2010 film)|Raavanan]]'' in 2010 alongside actor [[Vikram (actor)|Vikram]] who played the main protagonist. His performance was critically acclaimed.<ref>[http://movies.rediff.com/review/2010/jun/18/review-raavanan-is-better-than-raavan.htm Raavanan is better than Raavan – Rediff.com Movies] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160505051700/http://movies.rediff.com/review/2010/jun/18/review-raavanan-is-better-than-raavan.htm|date=5 May 2016}}. Movies.rediff.com (18 June 2010). Retrieved on 5 December 2010.</ref> In the same year, Prithviraj debuted in [[Telugu language|Telugu cinema]] in the film ''[[Police Police]]''.


===As an actor===
In 2011, Prithviraj produced his first film, the multilingual ''[[Urumi (film)|Urumi]]''. His other releases included ''[[City of God (2011 film)|City of God]]'', ''[[Manikiakkallu|Manikyakallu]]'', ''[[Veettilekkulla Vazhi]]'' and ''[[Indian Rupee (film)|Indian Rupee]]''. Critics praised Prithviraj for his performance in ''[[Indian Rupee (film)|Indian Rupee]]'', a critic at ''Nowrunning.com'', called it his "careers best performance".<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.nowrunning.com/movie/8825/malayalam/indian-rupee/3371/review.htm |title=Indian Rupee Review |publisher=Nowrunning.com |date=7 October 2011 |access-date=7 October 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111008041905/http://www.nowrunning.com/movie/8825/malayalam/indian-rupee/3371/review.htm |archive-date=8 October 2011 |url-status=live}}</ref> In 2012, his releases included ''[[Hero (2012 film)|Hero]]'', ''[[Molly Aunty Rocks!]]'' and ''[[Ayalum Njanum Thammil]]'', along with cameo roles in ''[[Akasathinte Niram|Aakashathinte Niram]].'' He also made a special appearance in [[Anjali Menon]]'s ''[[Manjadikuru]]''.  
Prakash Raj acted in back-to-back stage shows for {{INR}}300 a month in the initial stages of his career, when he joined [[Ravindra Kalakshetra|Kalakshetra, Bengaluru]], and he has 2,000 street theatre performances to his credit.<ref name="hindu.com" />


Prakash began his television career with [[Doordarshan]] serials such as ''Bisilu Kudure'' (Kannada) and ''[[Guddada Bhootha]]'' ([[Tulu language|Tulu]] and Kannada). He later took up supporting roles in [[Kannada language|Kannada]] films such as ''Ramachari'', ''[[Ranadheera]]'', ''[[Nishkarsha]]'' and ''[[Lockup Death]]''. He was noticed for his dialogue delivery and histrionics. His breakthrough role came in ''[[Harakeya Kuri]]'', directed by [[K. S. L. Swamy]] starring [[Vishnuvardhan (actor)|Vishnuvardhan]], with whom he had acted in other films such as ''[[Mithileya Seetheyaru]]'', ''[[Muthina Haara]]'' and ''[[Nishkarsha]]''. His performance was noticed by [[Geetha (actress)|Geetha]], the lead heroine of the film, who introduced Prakash to her mentor [[K. Balachander]], a Tamil director. He acted under the screen name "Prakash Rai" in Kannada films and was given the name "Prakash Raj" by [[K. Balachander]] for his debut Tamil film ''Duet'',<ref name="forgranted" /> which saw him playing his first major role.
In that same year, Prithviraj debuted in [[Hindi cinema]] through ''[[Aiyyaa]]'', starring alongside [[Rani Mukerji]].<ref name="autogenerated1">{{cite web |date=4 October 2011 |title=Rani Mukerjee signs Anurag Kashyap's next |url=http://www.ndtv.com/article/bollywood/rani-mukerjee-signs-anurag-kashyaps-next-138638 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120623060611/http://www.ndtv.com/article/bollywood/rani-mukerjee-signs-anurag-kashyaps-next-138638 |archive-date=23 June 2012 |access-date=20 October 2011 |publisher=Ndtv.com}}</ref>  


Prakash re-entered Kannada films through ''[[Nagamandala]]'' in 1997, directed by [[T. S. Nagabharana]], which was selected for the Indian Panorama in the [[International Film Festival]] in 1997. He was also a part of [[Mani Ratnam]]'s stage show ''[[Netru, Indru, Naalai]]''. In 1997, he acted in Mani Ratnam's biopic ''[[Iruvar]]''. The movie dealt with the relationship between politicians [[M. G. Ramachandran]] and [[M. Karunanidhi]], for which he won the [[National Film Award for Best Supporting Actor]].
=== Critical acclaim and further success (2013–2018) ===
In 2013, Prithviraj had three releases ''[[Celluloid (film)|Celluloid]]'', ''[[Mumbai Police (film)|Mumbai Police]]'' and ''[[Memories (2013 film)|Memories]]'', all of which were critical and commercial successes. He portrayed [[J.C. Daniel]] in ''[[Celluloid (film)|Celluloid]]'', for which he won his second [[Kerala State Film Award for Best Actor]].<ref name="ibnlive.in.com" /> He also played the role of a police officer in ''[[Aurangzeb (film)|Aurangzeb]]'', directed by Athul Sabharwal which was his second project in [[Hindi cinema]].<ref>{{cite web |date=12 June 2012 |title=Prithviraj to star in YRF's Aurangzeb |url=http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/1451751/Prithviraj-to-star-in-YRFs-Aurangzeb |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120808203217/http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/1451751/Prithviraj-to-star-in-YRFs-Aurangzeb |archive-date=8 August 2012 |access-date=17 July 2012 |website=[[Bollywood Hungama]]}}</ref> 


He starred in many [[Cinema of Kerala|Malayalam]] films in 1996: ''[[The Prince (1996 film)|The Prince]]'', ''[[Indraprastham (film)|Indraprastham]]'' and ''[[Oru Yathramozhi]]'', the last of which released in 1997. He also acted in ''[[Pandippada]]'', with [[Dileep (actor)|Dilip]] in 2005, ''Thekkekara Superfast'' in 2003, ''Keerthichakra'' in 2006, Amal Neerad's ''Anwar'' and Shyamaprasad's sensational movie ''Elecktra'' in 2010. For most of his Mollywood movies, he will render his own voice. He was also seen in the movie ''[[Achayans]] along with Jayaram''.
In 2014, Prithviraj's first major release was ''[[London Bridge (film)|London Bridge]]'', which was a box office failure; followed by ''[[7th Day (film)|7th Day]]'', which emerged as a commercial success. He also featured in a cameo role in ''[[Munnariyippu]]''. His third release of the year, ''[[Sapthamashree Thaskaraha]]'' was praised by critics. Prithviraj also starred in director [[Vasanthabalan]]'s period film ''[[Kaaviya Thalaivan (2014 film)|Kaaviya Thalaivan]]'', co-starring [[Siddharth (actor)|Siddharth]].  


He acted in many Telugu films, including ''[[Antahpuram]]'' (1998), which earned him a [[National Film Award – Special Mention (Feature Film)|National Film Award&nbsp;– Special Jury Award / Special Mention]].
His first release of 2015 was ''[[Picket 43]],'' followed by other releases such as Shyamaprasad's ''[[Ivide]]''. Prithviraj was widely praised for his performance in the film. He next appeared in [[Lijo Jose Pellissery]]'s ''[[Double Barrel (2015 film)|Double Barrel]]''.  


He played an important role in [[Venkat Prabhu]]'s ''[[Saroja (2008 film)|Saroja]]''. In 2008, he produced a film titled ''[[Abhiyum Naanum]]'' and played an important character in it. He remade the movie in [[Kannada language|Kannada]] as ''[[Naanu Nanna Kanasu]]''.
His most successful film of that year was ''[[Ennu Ninte Moideen]]'' co starring [[Parvathy Thiruvothu|Parvathy]] which narrated the tragic love tale of Kanchanamala and Moideen that happened in the 1960s in [[Mukkam]], a riverside village in Kerala. The film opened to critical acclaim, with several critics regarding it as one of the greatest romance films made in Malayalam cinema.<ref>Rejath RG (21 September 2015). [http://www.kaumudi.com/innerpage1.php?newsid=69214 "Ennu Ninte Moideen is truly epic"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150925193630/http://www.kaumudi.com/innerpage1.php?newsid=69214 |date=25 September 2015 }}. ''[[Kerala Kaumudi]]''. Retrieved 21 September 2015.</ref><ref>Akhila Menon (20 September 2015). [http://www.filmibeat.com/malayalam/news/2015/ennu-ninte-moideen-movie-review-198654.html "Ennu Ninte Moideen Movie Review: An Eternal Love Saga!"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150925054812/http://www.filmibeat.com/malayalam/news/2015/ennu-ninte-moideen-movie-review-198654.html |date=25 September 2015 }}. Retrieved 20 September 2015.</ref> His role as Moideen is regarded as one of the best in his career.<ref>[http://www.deshabhimani.com/news-cinema-all-latest_news-507663.html "19 നാളില്‍ മൊയ്തീന് 20 കോടി"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151012002214/http://deshabhimani.com/news-cinema-all-latest_news-507663.html |date=12 October 2015 }}. Deshabhimani. Retrieved 15 October 2015.</ref> His next releases ''[[Amar Akbar Anthony (2015 film)|Amar Akbar Anthony]]'' and ''[[Anarkali (2015 film)|Anarkali]]'' were major commercial success. [[File:Prithviraj with his mother Mallika Sukumaran (cropped).jpg|thumb|upright|Prithviraj with his mother [[Mallika Sukumaran]] and niece [[Prarthana Indrajith]] at an event in 2009]]Prithviraj had four releases in 2016, beginning with ''[[Paavada]]'', a family drama in which he played a drunkard. It met with a positive response and was a commercial success and ran for 100 days in theatres. His other releases ''[[Darvinte Parinamam]]'' and ''[[James & Alice]]'' were met with mixed reviews, the former told the story of an ordinary man dealing with a local goon and the latter was a family drama that discussed the matter of life and death. His last release, ''[[Oozham (2016 film)|Oozham]]'', an action thriller directed by Jeethu Joseph was a commercial success. He played a demolition expert.<ref>{{cite news |title='From Paavada to Oozham, here's how Prithviraj Sukumaran fared in 2016' |url=http://www.ibtimes.co.in/paavada-oozham-heres-how-2016-fared-prithviraj-sukumaran-709313/|access-date=2 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170416224428/http://www.ibtimes.co.in/paavada-oozham-heres-how-2016-fared-prithviraj-sukumaran-709313|archive-date=16 April 2017|url-status=live}}</ref> In 2017, he starred in the horror film ''[[Ezra (2017 film)|Ezra]]'', which became one of the highest-grossing Malayalam films of the year, grossing {{INR}}50 crore worldwide.<ref>{{cite news |title=Ezra : Prithviraj a star emerges 8th Rs. 50 crore grosser of Malayalam cinema |url=http://www.catchnews.com/regional-cinema/ezra-prithviraj-starrer-emerges-8th-rs-50-crore-grosser-of-malayalam-cinema-57679.html |access-date=13 April 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170413234949/http://www.catchnews.com/regional-cinema/ezra-prithviraj-starrer-emerges-8th-rs-50-crore-grosser-of-malayalam-cinema-57679.html |archive-date=13 April 2017 |url-status=live}}</ref> His other releases that year included ''[[Tiyaan]]'', ''[[Adam Joan]]'' and ''[[Vimaanam]]''. Both ''Tiyaan'' and ''Vimaanam'' were moderate box office hits. He starred in his third [[Hindi cinema|Hindi film]], ''[[Naam Shabana]]''.<ref>{{cite news |title=Naam Shabana, Prithviraj's third shot to Bollywood stardom |language=en |work=Asianet News Network Pvt Ltd |url=https://newsable.asianetnews.com/entertainment/naam-shabana-prithvirajs-third-shot-to-bollywood-stardom |url-status=live |access-date=8 November 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221108063040/https://newsable.asianetnews.com/entertainment/naam-shabana-prithvirajs-third-shot-to-bollywood-stardom |archive-date=8 November 2022}}</ref>


Prakash Raj worked in 2004 released multi starrer hit movie [[Khakee]] along with [[Amitabh Bachchan|Amithabh Bachchan]], [[Aishwarya Rai Bachchan|Aishwarya Rai]], [[Ajay Devgn]], [[Akshay Kumar]] & [[Tusshar Kapoor|Tushar Kapoor]], he played Additional Commissioner of Police Shrikant Naidu, Angre's main mole in the police force. Since ''[[Wanted (2009 film)|Wanted]]'' (2009), Prakash Raj has been a regular villain in [[Hindi language]] [[Bollywood movies]], including ''[[Singham]]'' (2011), as Jaikant Shikre, ''[[Dabangg 2]]'', as Bachcha Singh, ''Mumbai Mirror'' (2013), as Shetty, and the movie ''[[Policegiri]]'', opposite [[Sanjay Dutt]] and [[Prachi Desai]], as Nagori.
His first release of 2018 was Roshini Dinakar's romantic drama ''[[My Story (film)|My Story]]'', a commercial failure at the box office. His next two releases were [[Anjali Menon]]'s drama ''[[Koode]]'' and [[Nirmal Sahadev]]'s crime drama ''[[Ranam (2018 film)|Ranam]]''. ''Koode'' received critical acclaim and was a commercial success<ref name="auto"/> while ''Ranam'' was met with positive critical response but performed moderately at the box office. In 2018, Prithviraj launched his independent production house, Prithviraj Productions. In 2019, he produced and starred in the science fiction film ''[[9 (2019 film)|9]]''. The film received was a box office success.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://english.manoramaonline.com/entertainment/entertainment-news/2019/02/14/prithviraj-nine-movie-pre-release-business-profit-venture.html |title='9' makes the producers happy! |website=OnManorama |language=en|access-date=2019-07-31|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190731145139/https://english.manoramaonline.com/entertainment/entertainment-news/2019/02/14/prithviraj-nine-movie-pre-release-business-profit-venture.html|archive-date=31 July 2019|url-status=live}}</ref>


He acted with actor [[Kamal Haasan]] in ''[[Vasool Raja MBBS]]'' which was a critical and commercial success. Then he paired again with Kamal Haasan in ''[[Thoongaa Vanam]]'' (2015). He acted in the Telugu movie ''[[Bharat Ane Nenu]]'' (2018).
=== ''Lucifer'' and beyond (2019–present) ===
Prithviraj made his directorial debut in 2019 with the film ''[[Lucifer (2019 Indian film)|Lucifer]]'', starring [[Mohanlal]]. The film became one of the [[List of highest-grossing Indian films|highest-grossing Malayalam film]].<ref name="L">{{cite news |last=Kumar |first=Karthik |title=Mohanlal's Lucifer storms into Rs 200 crore club, first for Malayalam cinema |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/regional-movies/mohanlal-s-lucifer-storms-into-rs-200-crore-club-first-for-malayalam-cinema/story-vTm7JXaAdz0FWFTllE4n2I.html|access-date=12 June 2019 |newspaper=[[Hindustan Times]] |date=4 June 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190611022057/https://www.hindustantimes.com/regional-movies/mohanlal-s-lucifer-storms-into-rs-200-crore-club-first-for-malayalam-cinema/story-vTm7JXaAdz0FWFTllE4n2I.html|archive-date=11 June 2019|url-status=live}}</ref> In the following years, he would go onto star in the comedy-drama ''[[Driving Licence (film)|Driving License]]'' (2019), ''[[Ayyappanum Koshiyum]]'' (2020), ''[[Jana Gana Mana (2022 film)|Jana Gana Mana]]'' (2022), ''[[Kaduva]]'' (2022) and ''[[Salaar: Part 1 – Ceasefire]]'' (2023), all of which emerged as box office successes. However, ''[[Brother's Day]]'', ''[[Kaapa]],'' and ''[[Gold (2022 Indian film)|Gold]]'' failed at the box office. In 2024, he acted in the survival drama, [[Aadujeevitham (film)|''Aadujeevitham'']], directed by [[Blessy]]. Prithviraj had been cast for the project 16 years prior in 2008. ''Aadujeevitham'' was critically and commercially successful with Prithviraj earning critical acclaim for his performance.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Praveen |first=S. R. |date=2024-03-28 |title='Aadujeevitham – The Goat Life' movie review: Prithviraj's performance drives a survival drama that borders on monotony |url=https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/aadujeevitham-the-goat-life-movie-review-prithvirajs-performance-drives-a-survival-drama-that-borders-on-monotony/article68002069.ece |access-date=2024-08-20 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}}</ref> His second release, ''[[Bade Miyan Chote Miyan (2024 film)|Bade Miyan Chote Miyan]]'', marking his fourth film in [[Hindi cinema]], received negative reviews from critics and was a [[box-office bomb]].<ref>{{Cite news |date=2024-04-02 |title=Prithviraj Sukumaran shares why he thought he wouldn't be able to do Bade Miyan Chote Miyan, reveals who convinced him |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/others/prithviraj-sukumaran-shares-why-he-thought-he-wouldnt-be-able-to-do-bade-miyan-chote-miyan-reveals-who-convinced-him-101712056752928.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240618220401/https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/others/prithviraj-sukumaran-shares-why-he-thought-he-wouldnt-be-able-to-do-bade-miyan-chote-miyan-reveals-who-convinced-him-101712056752928.html |archive-date=2024-06-18 |access-date=2025-04-19 |work=Hindustan Times |language=en-us}}</ref> His third release, the comedy-drama ''[[Guruvayoor Ambalanadayil]]'' was also a commercial success.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Praveen |first=S. R. |date=2024-05-16 |title='Guruvayoor Ambalanadayil' movie review: Prithviraj and Basil Joseph's humorous bromance loses steam halfway through |url=https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/guruvayoor-ambalanadayil-movie-review-prithviraj-and-basil-josephs-humorous-bromance-loses-steam-halfway-through/article68182241.ece |access-date=2024-08-20 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}}</ref> Both films ranks among the list of [[List of highest-grossing Malayalam films]] of all time. He won the [[Kerala State Film Award for Best Actor]] for ''Aadujeevitham'' that year.<ref>{{Cite web |date=16 August 2024 |title=Kerala State Film Awards: Prithviraj, Urvashi, Beena R Chandran win top acting honours |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/kerala-state-film-award-prithviraj-sukumaran-urvashi-beena-r-chandran-win-top-acting-honours-2583054-2024-08-16 |website=India Today}}</ref> In 2025, he directed and starred in ''[[L2: Empuraan]]'', a sequel to ''[[Lucifer (2019 Indian film)|Lucifer]]''. The film received mixed reviews from critics but still emerged as a commercial success.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Made for Rs 180 crore, this superhit film earned Rs..., now set to release on OTT, film is .., lead actors are.... |url=https://www.india.com/entertainment/made-for-rs-180-crore-this-superhit-film-earned-rs-256-now-set-to-release-on-ott-film-is-l2-empuraan-lead-actors-are-prithviraj-sukumaran-and-mohanlal-7766069/ |access-date=2025-04-19 |website=www.india.com |language=en}}</ref>


===As a director===
Prithviraj next appeared in the Hindi film ''[[Sarzameen]]'' (2025), directed by [[Kayoze Irani]], the son of [[Boman Irani]], and produced by [[Karan Johar]], [[Apoorva Mehta]], and [[Adar Poonawalla]] under [[Dharma Productions]]. It released directly onto [[JioHotstar]] to mixed-to-negative reviews.<ref>{{Cite news |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/entertainment/ott/story/sarzameen-teaser-prithviraj-sukumaran-ibrahim-ali-khan-fight-terrorism-in-kashmir-2748269-2025-06-30|title=Sarzameen teaser: Ibrahim plays terrorist, Prithviraj a soldier in high-stakes drama|work=India Today |date=30 June 2025 |access-date=30 June 2025}}</ref> His another release in the year 2025 was ''[[Vilayath Buddha]]'', which turned to be an underperformer.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-03-03 |title=Prithviraj Sukumaran calls it wrap for Vilayath Buddha, recounting 2-year journey and enduring surgery |url=https://www.pinkvilla.com/entertainment/south/prithviraj-sukumaran-calls-it-wrap-for-vilayath-buddha-recounting-2-year-journey-and-enduring-surgery-1375497 |access-date=2025-03-03 |website=PINKVILLA |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=2024-08-28 |title='Nobody': Prithviraj Sukumaran announces his next film with 'Rorschach' director Nissam Basheer |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/malayalam/movies/news/nobody-prithviraj-sukumaran-announces-his-next-film-with-rorschach-director-nissam-basheer/articleshow/112846686.cms |access-date=2025-03-03 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=2024-10-16 |title=Prithviraj Sukumaran reunites with 'Guruvayoor Ambalanadayil' director for his next 'Santhosh Trophy' |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/malayalam/movies/news/prithviraj-sukumaran-reunites-with-guruvayoor-ambalanadayil-director-for-his-next-santhosh-trophy/articleshow/114292022.cms#:~:text=Prithviraj%20Sukumaran%20is%20teaming%20up,Listin%20Stephen%20and%20Supriya%20Menon. |access-date=2025-03-03 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref>
He took on the mantle of director with ''[[Naanu Nanna Kanasu]]'', in Kannada in 2010, for which he was the joint producer. The film completed 125 days successfully in the theatres across [[Karnataka]], becoming the biggest hit of the year.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.deccanherald.com/content/104809/naanu-nanna-kanasu-hindi.html |title='Naanu Nanna Kanasu' in Hindi |newspaper=Deccan Herald |date=21 May 2013 |access-date=6 December 2013 |archive-date=16 October 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131016143643/http://www.deccanherald.com/content/104809/naanu-nanna-kanasu-hindi.html |url-status=live }}</ref> He was nominated for the Filmfare South "Best Director" category for his first film.


He then directed the Telugu and Tamil bilingual film ''[[Dhoni (film)|Dhoni]]''. In 2014, he directed the multilingual film ''[[Oggarane (film)|Oggarane]]'' (in Kannada), ''[[Ulavacharu Biryani]]'' (in Telugu) and ''[[Un Samayal Arayil]]'' (in Tamil).<ref name="ibnlive.in.com">{{cite news |url=http://ibnlive.in.com/news/prakash-raj-set-to-take-kannada-film-industry-by-storm/422738-71-205.html |title=Prakash Raj set to take Kannada film industry by storm |publisher=Ibnlive.in.com |date=17 September 2013 |access-date=6 December 2013 |archive-date=16 October 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131016214800/http://ibnlive.in.com/news/prakash-raj-set-to-take-kannada-film-industry-by-storm/422738-71-205.html |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref name="behindwoods.com">{{cite web |url=http://behindwoods.com/tamil-movie-news-1/aug-12-03/prakash-raj-duet-movies-18-08-12.html |title=Prakash Raj To Remake Malayalam Hit&nbsp;– Prakash Raj&nbsp;– Duet Movies&nbsp;– Tamil Movie News |publisher=Behindwoods.com |date=18 August 2012 |access-date=6 December 2013 |archive-date=16 October 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131016165124/http://behindwoods.com/tamil-movie-news-1/aug-12-03/prakash-raj-duet-movies-18-08-12.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="indiaglitz.com">{{cite web |url=http://www.indiaglitz.com/channels/kannada/article/97532.html |title='Vaggarane' from Prakash Raj&nbsp;– Kannada Movie News |publisher=Indiaglitz.com |date=14 September 2013 |access-date=6 December 2013 |archive-date=16 October 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131016144322/http://www.indiaglitz.com/channels/kannada/article/97532.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com">{{cite news |url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2013-09-16/news-interviews/42113380_1_prakash-raj-salt-pepper |title=Prakash Raj in Kannada version of Salt and Pepper |date=16 September 2013 |access-date=6 December 2013 |archive-date=28 September 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130928034457/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2013-09-16/news-interviews/42113380_1_prakash-raj-salt-pepper |newspaper=[[The Times of India]] |url-status=dead }}</ref> The Tamil and the Telugu versions didn't do any miracles at the box office, while ''Oggarane'', the Kannada version became the runaway blockbuster hit of the year.<ref name="rediff.com">{{cite web|url=http://www.rediff.com/movies/report/prakash-rajs-oggarane-is-a-huge-success-at-the-box-office-south/20140616.htm|title=Prakash Raj's Oggarane is a huge success at the Box Office|date=16 June 2014|work=Rediff|access-date=25 June 2014|archive-date=20 June 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140620010102/http://www.rediff.com/movies/report/prakash-rajs-oggarane-is-a-huge-success-at-the-box-office-south/20140616.htm|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="ReferenceB">{{cite web|url=http://www.indiaglitz.com/Oggarane-Success-kannada-news-108987|title=Oggarane Success!|access-date=25 June 2014|archive-date=7 October 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141007030857/http://www.indiaglitz.com/Oggarane-Success-kannada-news-108987|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="moviesamachar.com">{{cite web|url=http://moviesamachar.com/news/prakash-raj-s-oggarane-is-a-huge-success-at-the-box-office|title=Prakash Raj S Oggarane Is A Huge Success At The Box Office - Movie News :: MovieSamachar.com|access-date=25 June 2014|archive-date=14 July 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140714220654/http://moviesamachar.com/news/prakash-raj-s-oggarane-is-a-huge-success-at-the-box-office|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="veooz.com">{{cite web|url=http://www.veooz.com/news/4HGey6f.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20140625125530/http://www.veooz.com/news/4HGey6f.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=25 June 2014|title=[News] Prakash Raj's Oggarane is a huge success ... – Veooz 360|work=Veooz}}</ref><ref name="kannada.filmyfilmy.com">{{cite web|url=http://kannada.filmyfilmy.com/fn-oggarane-success-7065525.htm|title=Filmy Filmy – Bollywood News – Bollywood ShowBiz and Celebrity photos – Bollywood gossip|work=Filmy Filmy|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140714151014/http://kannada.filmyfilmy.com/fn-oggarane-success-7065525.htm|archive-date=14 July 2014}}</ref><ref name="nthwall.com">{{cite web |url=http://www.nthwall.com/ka/Oggarane-Film-Success-Pressmeet/1000007821 |title=Oggarane film success press meet|work=Nth Wall |access-date=25 June 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140714183712/http://www.nthwall.com/ka/Oggarane-Film-Success-Pressmeet/1000007821 |archive-date=14 July 2014  }}</ref>
In 2026, he will appear in the highly anticipated sequel to ''Salaar: Part 1 - Ceasefire'', ''[[Salaar: Part 2 - Shouryanga Parvam]]''. He has also signed on to appear in malayalam films ''Nobody'', and ''Santhosh Trophy''. ''[[Varanasi (2027 film)|Varanasi]]'', directed by [[S. S. Rajamouli]] and co-starring [[Mahesh Babu]] and [[Priyanka Chopra]] is one of his most anticipated films.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/magazines/panache/rajamoulis-ssmb29-with-mahesh-babu-priyanka-chopra-and-500-crew-filming-at-odishas-hidden-gems-are-you-packing-your-bags/articleshow/118843848.cms?from=mdr|work=[[The Economic Times|Economic Times]]|accessdate=5 June 2024|title= Rajamouli's 'SSMB29' with Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra and 500 crew filming at Odisha's hidden gems.|date=10 March 2025}}</ref>


===As a film producer===
== Personal life ==
Prakash became a film producer beginning with the Tamil film ''[[Dhaya (film)|Dhaya]]'' (2002), in which he starred with actress [[Meena (actress)|Meena]]. It earned him a Special Jury National Award for his performance. He later produced films in Tamil such as ''Naam'' (2003), ''[[Azhagiya Theeye]]'' (2004), ''[[Kanda Naal Mudhal]]'' (2005), ''[[Poi (film)|Poi]]'' (2006), ''[[Mozhi (film)|Mozhi]]'' (2007), ''[[Velli Thirai]]'' and ''[[Abhiyum Naanum]]'', which won many Tamil Nadu State Awards in 2008, and ''[[Inidhu Inidhu]]'' in 2010.
Prithviraj married [[BBC India]] reporter Supriya Menon on 25 April 2011 in a private ceremony held in [[Palakkad]].<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/states/kerala/article1766407.ece |title=Prithviraj gets married in Palakkad |newspaper=[[The Hindu]] |url-access=subscription |date=25 April 2011 |access-date=2 October 2011 |location=Palakkad |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110821022251/http://www.thehindu.com/news/states/kerala/article1766407.ece |archive-date=21 August 2011 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://newindianexpress.com/entertainment/malayalam/article388995.ece |title=Prithviraj: No more a bachelor boy |newspaper=[[The Indian Express]] |first1=Asha |last1=Prakash |date=28 April 2011 |access-date=28 April 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304214047/http://www.newindianexpress.com/entertainment/malayalam/article388995.ece |archive-date=4 March 2016 |url-status=dead}}</ref> They have a daughter, born in 2014. Prithviraj and his family used to reside in [[Thevara]], [[Kochi]].<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://connectingmalayali.com/articles/business/42-all-about-kerala/film/250-malayalam-film-artists-contact-details |title=Malayalam film artists CONTACT DETAILS |access-date=10 April 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170411135414/http://connectingmalayali.com/articles/business/42-all-about-kerala/film/250-malayalam-film-artists-contact-details |archive-date=11 April 2017 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=പൃഥ്വിയുടെ പുതിയ വീട്; ലൂസിഫറിന്റെ ഓഫീസ്! |url=https://www.manoramaonline.com/homestyle/spot-light/2017/04/05/exclusive-look-into-prithviraj-new-flat-cum-workplace-in-thevara.html |access-date=2024-06-27 |website=ManoramaOnline}}</ref> Since 2024, he has been staying at a house bought for ₹30 crores, at [[Pali Hill]], [[Mumbai]].<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/malayalam/movies/news/prithviraj-sukumaran-buys-rs-30-crore-luxury-duplex-in-mumbais-pali-hill-exclusive/articleshow/113419851.cms|title=Prithviraj Sukumaran buys Rs 30 crore luxury duplex in Mumbai's Pali Hill - Exclusive|date=17 September 2024|newspaper=The Times of India}}</ref>


The first non-Tamil film that he produced was his directorial debut in Kannada ''[[Naanu Nanna Kanasu]]'' in 2010, a remake of his own Tamil production ''[[Abhiyum Naanum]]'', for which he was the joint producer, along with his long-time Bengaluru theatre friend, Kannada director-producer B. Suresh.<ref name="Prakash Raj to direct">{{cite web | url=http://www.behindwoods.com/tamil-movie-news-1/nov-09-02/prakash-raj-abhiyum-naanum-11-11-09.html | title=Prakash Raj finalizes | date=11 November 2009 | publisher=Behindwoods | access-date=11 November 2009 | archive-date=14 November 2009 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091114060445/http://www.behindwoods.com/tamil-movie-news-1/nov-09-02/prakash-raj-abhiyum-naanum-11-11-09.html | url-status=live }}</ref> In 2011, he acted and jointly produced the Kannada film ''[[Puttakkana Highway]]'', again with B. Suresh, who directed the film. It was a milestone in Prakash's production career since ''[[Puttakkana Highway]]'' won him the [[National Film Awards|National Award]] for Best Regional Film for the year 2010–2011,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.cinevedika.net/national-film-award-for-prakash-raj/|title=National Film Award for Prakash Raj&nbsp;– Puttakkana Highway &#124; Cine Vedika &#124; Telugu &#124;Film News &#124; Daily Serials &#124; TV Shows &#124; Movies&#124; Music|publisher=Cine Vedika|access-date=6 August 2012|archive-date=11 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201011181857/http://www.cinevedika.net/national-film-award-for-prakash-raj/|url-status=live}}</ref> and an award in the fourth Bengaluru International Film Festival of 2011.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://ibnlive.in.com/news/lucky-wins-the-golden-bherunda-award-at-biff/215058-62-132.html |title='Lucky' wins the Golden Bherunda award at BIFF&nbsp;– IBN South&nbsp;– IBN Bangalore&nbsp;– ibnlive |publisher=Ibnlive.in.com |date=26 December 2011 |access-date=6 August 2012 |archive-date=3 December 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131203220408/http://ibnlive.in.com/news/lucky-wins-the-golden-bherunda-award-at-biff/215058-62-132.html |url-status=dead }}</ref>
==Other ventures==
Prithviraj Productions is an Indian [[film production]] and [[Film distribution|distribution]] company based in [[Kochi]], established in 2017 by Prithviraj and his wife Supriya Menon. Since then, it has produced and distributed over 10 films.<ref>{{Cite news |title=Prithviraj, wife Supriya launch production company |language=en-IN |work=Mathrubhumi |url=https://english.mathrubhumi.com/movies-music/movie-news/prithviraj-wife-supriya-launch-production-company-malayalam-movie-actor-1.2658516 |accessdate=16 March 2021|archive-date=31 January 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210131160048/https://english.mathrubhumi.com/movies-music/movie-news/prithviraj-wife-supriya-launch-production-company-malayalam-movie-actor-1.2658516|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |title=Prithviraj Sukumaran starts new production house with wife Supriya Menon |language=en-IN |work=IBT |first=Shekhar H. |last=Hooli |url=https://www.ibtimes.co.in/prithviraj-sukumaran-starts-new-production-house-wife-supriya-menon-763265 |accessdate=16 March 2021 |archive-date=30 January 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210130050244/https://www.ibtimes.co.in/prithviraj-sukumaran-starts-new-production-house-wife-supriya-menon-763265 |url-status=live}}</ref>


In 2011, he produced the Tamil version of the Tamil-Telugu bilingual ''[[Payanam (2011 film)|Payanam]]'' in 2011, starring [[Nagarjuna Akkineni]] and himself. In 2012, he produced two Tamil films; ''[[Mayilu]]'' and ''[[Dhoni (film)|Dhoni]]''. In 2013, he produced a Telugu-Tamil bilingual film; ''[[Gouravam (2013 film)|Gouravam]]''. He produced a multilingual film ''[[Oggarane (film)|Oggarane]]'' (Kannada), ''[[Ulavacharu Biryani]]'' (Telugu) and ''[[Un Samayal Arayil]]'' (Tamil) in 2014.<ref name="ibnlive.in.com"/><ref name="behindwoods.com"/><ref name="indiaglitz.com"/><ref name="articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com"/> ''Oggarane'' became a huge blockbuster hit that year.<ref name="rediff.com"/><ref name="ReferenceB"/><ref name="moviesamachar.com"/><ref name="veooz.com"/><ref name="kannada.filmyfilmy.com"/><ref name="nthwall.com"/>
=== As a producer ===
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align: center;font-size:100%"
|-
! Year
! Film
! Director
! Language
! Notes
! Ref.
|-
| rowspan="2" | 2019
|''[[9 (2019 film)|9]]''
|[[Jenuse Mohamed]]
|Malayalam
|
|<ref>{{Cite web |title='9' trailer captures the pace of the movie: Jenuse Mohd |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/entertainment/entertainment-news/2019/01/09/jenuse-mohamed-on-9-movie-trailer-making.html |access-date=2024-05-30 |website=www.onmanorama.com}}</ref>
|-
|''[[Driving Licence (film)|Driving Licence]]''
|[[Lal Jr.]]
|Malayalam
|
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Native |first=Digital |date=2019-04-05 |title=Prithviraj to produce 'Driving License' |url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/flix/prithviraj-produce-driving-license-100073 |access-date=2024-05-30 |website=The News Minute |language=en}}</ref>
|-
|2021
|''[[Kuruthi]]''
|Manu Warrier
|Malayalam
|
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Rangan |first=Baradwaj |date=2021-08-09 |title=Kuruthi, With Prithviraj On Amazon Prime Video, Is A Solid Home-Invasion Thriller That Transcends The Genre |url=https://www.filmcompanion.in/reviews/streaming-reviews/kuruthi-malayalam-movie-review-amazon-prime-a-solid-home-invasion-thriller-that-transcends-the-genre-prithviraj-sukumaran-roshan-mathew-baradwaj-rangan |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240530155357/https://www.filmcompanion.in/reviews/streaming-reviews/kuruthi-malayalam-movie-review-amazon-prime-a-solid-home-invasion-thriller-that-transcends-the-genre-prithviraj-sukumaran-roshan-mathew-baradwaj-rangan |archive-date=30 May 2024 |access-date=2024-05-30 |website=www.filmcompanion.in |language=en}}</ref>
|-
| rowspan="3" |2022
|''[[Jana Gana Mana (2022 film)|Jana Gana Mana]]''
|[[Dijo Jose Antony]]
|Malayalam
|
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Menon |first=Vishal |date=2022-04-08 |title=Jana Gana Mana Is A Cleverly Deceptive Political Film That Doesn't Trade Entertainment With Its Importance |url=https://www.filmcompanion.in/reviews/jana-gana-mana-movie-review-prithviraj-is-a-cleverly-deceptive-political-film-that-doesnt-trade-entertainment-with-its-importance |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240530155410/https://www.filmcompanion.in/reviews/jana-gana-mana-movie-review-prithviraj-is-a-cleverly-deceptive-political-film-that-doesnt-trade-entertainment-with-its-importance |archive-date=30 May 2024 |access-date=2024-05-30 |website=www.filmcompanion.in |language=en}}</ref>
|-
|''[[Kaduva]]''
|[[Shaji Kailas]]
|Malayalam
|
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=''Kaduva'' makers shamelessly altered events in my grandfather's life' |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/entertainment/entertainment-news/2022/07/11/kaduva-makers-story-grandfather-life-grandson.html |access-date=2024-05-30 |website=www.onmanorama.com}}</ref>
|-
|''[[Gold (2022 Indian film)|Gold]]''
|[[Alphonse Puthren]]
|Malayalam
|
|<ref>{{Cite news |title='Gold': Here's an update from the Prithviraj - Nayanthara starrer |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/malayalam/movies/news/gold-heres-an-update-from-the-prithviraj-nayanthara-starrer/articleshow/93815899.cms |access-date=2024-05-30 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref>
|-


==Humanitarian work==
| 2023
Prakash Raj adopted the villages of Kondareddypalle in [[Mahabubnagar District]], [[Telangana]] state<ref>{{cite news | url=http://www.telangananewspaper.com/actor-prakash-raj-follows-srimanthudu/ | location=Hyderabad, India | work=TNP | title=Humanity of Prakash Raj Makes tollywood industry proud | date=7 September 2015 | access-date=7 September 2015 | archive-date=7 September 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150907231939/http://www.telangananewspaper.com/actor-prakash-raj-follows-srimanthudu/ | url-status=live }}</ref>
|''[[Selfiee]]''
and Bandlarahatti in [[Chitradurga district]], Karnataka state.<ref>{{cite web|title=Prakash Raj vows to make Chitradurga village fluoride-free|url=http://www.coastaldigest.com/news/prakash-raj-vows-make-chitradurga-village-fluoride-free|website=Coastaldigest.com – The Trusted News Portal of India, Coastal Karnataka|access-date=9 February 2018|language=en|date=27 January 2018|archive-date=9 February 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180209182451/http://www.coastaldigest.com/news/prakash-raj-vows-make-chitradurga-village-fluoride-free|url-status=live}}</ref>
|[[Raj Mehta]]
|Hindi
|Remake of [[Driving Licence (film)|''Driving Licence'']]
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Mishra |first=Pratikshya |date=2023-02-24 |title='Selfiee' Review: Akshay Kumar-Starrer Keeps Finding & Losing Its Groove |url=https://www.thequint.com/entertainment/movie-reviews/selfiee-movie-driving-license-remake-akshay-kumar-emraan-hashmi-full-movie-review |access-date=2024-05-30 |website=TheQuint |language=en}}</ref>
|-
|2024
|''[[Guruvayoor Ambalanadayil]]''
|[[Vipin Das]]
|Malayalam
|
|<ref>{{Cite news |title=It's a wrap for Prithviraj Sukumaran's 'Guruvayoor Ambalanadayil' |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/malayalam/movies/news/its-a-wrap-for-prithviraj-sukumarans-guruvayoor-ambalanadayil/articleshow/109034671.cms |access-date=2024-05-30 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref>
|}


==Awards==
=== As a distributor ===
{{Main|List of awards and nominations received by Prakash Raj}}
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align: center;font-size:100%"
|-
! Year
! Film
! Director
! Language
! Notes
! Ref.
|-
| rowspan="2" |2019
|''[[Petta (film)|Petta]]''
|[[Karthik Subbaraj]]
| rowspan="4" | Tamil
|
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Native |first=Digital |date=2019-01-01 |title=Prithviraj acquires Kerala rights for Rajini's 'Petta' |url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/flix/prithviraj-acquires-kerala-rights-rajini-s-petta-94346 |access-date=2024-05-30 |website=The News Minute |language=en}}</ref>
|-
|''[[Bigil]]''
|[[Atlee (director)|Atlee]]
|
|<ref>{{Cite news |title=Prithviraj bags Kerala distribution rights of Vijay's Bigil |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/malayalam/movies/news/prithviraj-bags-kerala-distribution-rights-of-vijays-bigil/articleshow/71554307.cms |access-date=2024-05-30 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref>
|-
| rowspan="3" |2021
|''[[Master (2021 film)|Master]]''
|[[Lokesh Kanagaraj]]
|
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=Vijay's Master: Distributors to go ahead with the release in Kerala |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/entertainment/entertainment-news/2021/01/10/vijay-master-movie-distributors-to-release-in-kerala.html |access-date=2024-05-30 |website=www.onmanorama.com}}</ref>
|-
|''[[Doctor (2021 film)|Doctor]]''
|[[Nelson Dilipkumar]]
|
|<ref>{{Cite news |title=Sivakarthikeyan's 'Doctor' opens great at the Kerala box office |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/sivakarthikeyans-doctor-opens-great-at-the-kerala-box-office/articleshow/87361854.cms |access-date=2024-05-30 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref>
|-
|''[[83 (film)|83]]''
|[[Kabir Khan (director)|Kabir Khan]]
|Hindi
|
|
|-
| rowspan="4" |2022
|''[[KGF: Chapter 2]]''
|[[Prashanth Neel]]
| rowspan="3" |Kannada
| rowspan="3" |Distributed Malayalam version
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Service |first=Express News |date=2021-01-03 |title=Prithviraj Productions to distribute KGF: Chapter 2 in Kerala |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/entertainment/malayalam/2021/Jan/06/prithviraj-productions-to-distribute-kgf-chapter-2-in-kerala-2245915.html |access-date=2024-05-30 |website=The New Indian Express |language=en}}</ref>
|-
|''[[777 Charlie]]''
|Kiranraj K.
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=777 Charlie director Kiranraj: When Prithviraj came on board, I informed my mother even before Rakshit Shetty |url=https://www.ottplay.com/news/777-charlie-director-kiranraj-when-prithviraj-came-on-board-i-informed-my-mother-even-before-rakshit-shetty/9165a1c5d5629 |access-date=2024-05-30 |website=www.ottplay.com}}</ref>
|-
|''[[Kantara (film)|Kantara]]''
|[[Rishab Shetty]]
|<ref>{{Cite news |title=Prithviraj Sukumaran announces the Malayalam release of 'Kantara' |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/malayalam/movies/news/prithviraj-sukumaran-announces-the-malayalam-release-of-kantara/articleshow/94738560.cms |access-date=2024-05-30 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref>
|-
|''[[Kumari (2022 film)|Kumari]]''
|[[Nirmal Sahadev]]
| Malayalam
|
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=Fascinated by 'Kumari's' mystic location? This enchanting cave is just a drive away from Kochi |url=https://www.onmanorama.com/travel/kerala/2023/01/06/kumari-movie-location-kochareekkal-caves-in-ekm-district.html |access-date=2024-05-30 |website=www.onmanorama.com}}</ref>
|-
|2023
|''[[Salaar: Part 1 – Ceasefire]]''
|[[Prashanth Neel]]
|Telugu
|Distributed Malayalam version
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Aditya |date=2023-11-16 |title=Salaar's South India distributors list and breakeven details |url=https://tracktollywood.com/salaars-south-india-distributors-list-and-breakeven-details/ |access-date=2024-05-30 |website=TrackTollywood |language=en-US}}</ref>
|-
| 2024
|''[[The Goat Life]]''
|[[Blessy]]
|Malayalam
|
|<ref>{{Cite news |title=Prithviraj Sukumaran: One area of the Mollywood industry that I believe is in a nascent stage is our distribution network |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/malayalam/movies/news/prithviraj-sukumaran-one-area-of-the-mollywood-industry-that-i-believe-is-in-a-nascent-stage-is-our-distribution-network/articleshow/108561695.cms |access-date=2024-05-30 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref>
|}


==Political career==
== In the media ==
Prakash Raj started his active political movement with the hashtag #justasking on social media after his friend [[Gauri Lankesh]]'s assassination incident in September 2017.
[[File:Prithviraj 2008.jpg|thumb|Prithviraj in 2008]]


He contested in the [[2019 Indian general election]] as an [[Independent (politician)|independent]] candidate for the [[Bangalore Central (Lok Sabha constituency)|Bengaluru Central Lok Sabha constituency]].<ref name="pol">{{citation|title=Prakash Raj gets 'whistle' symbol from Bengaluru Central, urges citizens to be 'whistleblowers'|date=29 March 2019|url=https://www.timesnownews.com/amp/elections/article/2019-lok-sabha-elections-prakash-raj-whistle-bengaluru-central-karnataka-narendra-modi-gauri-lankesh-congress-bjp/391220|work=Times Now|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190401161209/https://www.timesnownews.com/amp/elections/article/2019-lok-sabha-elections-prakash-raj-whistle-bengaluru-central-karnataka-narendra-modi-gauri-lankesh-congress-bjp/391220|access-date=1 April 2019|archive-date=1 April 2019|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title= Prakash Rai files nomination from Bengaluru Central|url= https://www.deccanherald.com/state/mohan-prakash-raj-file-papers-from-bangalore-central-724622.html|publisher= Deccan Herald|date= 22 March 2019|access-date= 5 April 2019|archive-date= 11 October 2020|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20201011181859/https://www.deccanherald.com/state/mohan-prakash-raj-file-papers-from-bangalore-central-724622.html|url-status= live}}</ref> Raj lost the election, securing around 28,906 Votes (2.41%) in the election.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Election results: Prakash Raj calls defeat in Bangalore Central a "solid slap on my face"|url=https://www.businesstoday.in/lok-sabha-elections-2019/news/election-results-prakash-raj-calls-defeat-a-solid-slap/story/349602.html|access-date=13 January 2021|website=www.businesstoday.in}}</ref>
Prithviraj is considered among the most popular and highest-paid actors of [[Malayalam cinema]].<ref name="PS1" /><ref name="PS2" /> He was placed fourth in 2013 and first in 2015, in ''[[Rediff.com]]'' "Best Malayalam Actor" list.<ref>{{Cite news |url=https://m.rediff.com/movies/report/slide-show-1-the-top-performances-by-malayalam-actors-in-2013-south/20140110.htm |access-date=23 September 2022 |title=Top Performances by Malayalam Actors in 2013 |work=Rediff.com |date=10 January 2014 |archive-date=7 May 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240507074629/https://m.rediff.com/movies/report/slide-show-1-the-top-performances-by-malayalam-actors-in-2013-south/20140110.htm |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |url=https://m.rediff.com/movies/report/the-top-5-malayalam-actors-of-2015/20151230.htm |access-date=23 September 2022 |title=Top Performances by Malayalam Actors in 2015 |work=Rediff.com |date=10 January 2014 |archive-date=7 May 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240507074629/https://m.rediff.com/movies/report/the-top-5-malayalam-actors-of-2015/20151230.htm |url-status=live }}</ref> His performance in ''Mumbai Police'' is regarded as one of the "100 Greatest Performances of the Decade" by ''[[Film Companion]]''.<ref>{{Cite web |title=100 Greatest Performances of the Decade |url=https://filmcompanion.in/best-of-the-decade/100-best-performances-indian-cinema.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191219043509/https://www.filmcompanion.in/best-of-the-decade/100-best-performances-indian-cinema.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=19 December 2019 |access-date=14 November 2020 |website=[[Film Companion]] |language=en}}</ref> Prithviraj was named the [[Times of India|Kochi Times Most Desirable Men]] of 2017 and 2019. He was further placed 4th in 2018 and 2nd in 2020, on the same list.<ref>{{cite news |title=The Kochi Times Most Desirable Man 2017 |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/malayalam/movies/news/kochi-times-most-desirable-man-2017-prithviraj/articleshow/62863460.cms |access-date=29 September 2017 |website=Times of India |language=en |archive-date=7 May 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240507105405/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/malayalam/movies/news/kochi-times-most-desirable-man-2017-prithviraj/amp_articleshow/62863460.cms |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |title=Kochi Times 25 Most Desirable Men 2018 |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/malayalam/movies/news/kochi-times-25-most-desirable-men-of-2018/articleshow/68048374.cms |access-date=21 September 2018 |website=Times of India |language=en |archive-date=7 May 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240507105405/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/malayalam/movies/news/kochi-times-25-most-desirable-men-of-2018/amp_articleshow/68048374.cms |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |title=Kochi Times Most Desirable Men 2019: Prithviraj Sukumaran |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/malayalam/movies/news/kochi-times-most-desirable-men-of-2019/articleshow/74226674.cms |access-date=25 September 2020 |website=Times of India |language=en |archive-date=25 May 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210525000118/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/malayalam/movies/news/kochi-times-most-desirable-men-of-2019/articleshow/74226674.cms |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |title=Kochi Times Most Desirable Men 2019: Dulquer Salmaan |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/malayalam/movies/news/kochi-times-most-desirable-men-of-2020/articleshow/83175935.cms |access-date=27 September 2021 |website=Times of India |language=en |archive-date=7 May 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240507092445/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/malayalam/movies/news/kochi-times-most-desirable-men-of-2020/amp_articleshow/83175935.cms |url-status=live }}</ref> A research study conducted in 2023 by Indian Institute of Human Brands (IIHB) stated that Prithviraj was the third highest-ranked celebrity in Malayalam cinema.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://brandequity.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/research/suriya-is-the-number-one-celebrity-in-south-india-report/97019588 |title=Suriya is the number one celebrity in South India: Report |date=16 January 2023 |website=Economic Times |accessdate=27 January 2023}}</ref> In 2024, ''[[Hindustan Times]]'' placed him in their "Top Performances of the Year" list.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/telugu-cinema/best-acting-performances-of-2024-from-fahadh-faasil-in-aavesham-to-kani-kusruti-in-all-we-imagine-as-light-101734756659019.html |title=Best acting performances of 2024: From Fahadh Faasil in Aavesham to Kani Kusruti in All We Imagine As Light |work=Hindustan Times |date=23 December 2024 |accessdate=26 December 2024}}</ref> In 2024, Prithviraj was placed 100th on [[IMDb]]'s List of 100 Most Viewed Indian Stars.<ref>{{Cite web |accessdate=29 August 2024 |title=Deepika Padukone, Shah Rukh Khan Top IMDb's List of Most Viewed Indian Stars |url=https://variety.com/2024/film/news/deepika-padukone-shah-rukh-khan-imdb-indian-stars-list-1236018332/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241122092159/https://variety.com/2024/film/news/deepika-padukone-shah-rukh-khan-imdb-indian-stars-list-1236018332/ |archive-date=22 November 2024 |website=Variety |date=29 May 2024 }}</ref>


==Controversies==
== Filmography ==
Prakash has been involved in several controversies.
{{Main|Prithviraj Sukumaran filmography}}


He was banned by Telugu film producers six times in the past. Prakash reacted to it by saying:
== Accolades ==
<blockquote>"If people who work with me say that I play hide and seek, why do they repeat me? Why am I in [[Mahesh Babu|Mahesh]]'s nine films out of his ten. Why don't you judge me with my work? How I go about it is not important. I don't go by the rules. I put my foot down, I don't take mediocrity. There are certain locations where I can come only at 12 in the morning. I don't go by the rules."<ref>{{cite web|title=An Interview With Prakash Raj&nbsp;– Interviews|url=http://www.cinegoer.net/telugu-cinema/interviews/interview-with-prakash-raj.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130715002234/http://www.cinegoer.net/telugu-cinema/interviews/interview-with-prakash-raj.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=15 July 2013|publisher=CineGoer.com|access-date=3 April 2009}}</ref></blockquote> It was the first time that an actor was banned by the Telugu industry.<ref name="ReferenceA">{{cite news |url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2008-05-31/hyderabad/27771601_1_prakash-raj-film-industry-ban |title=Tollywood bans Prakash Raj |date=31 May 2008 |access-date=6 December 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131001142708/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2008-05-31/hyderabad/27771601_1_prakash-raj-film-industry-ban |archive-date=1 October 2013 |newspaper=[[The Times of India]] |url-status=dead }}</ref> Telugu film industry insiders interpret the ban as a conspiracy by several big heroes and producers. Problems started during the shooting of films such as [[Pawan Kalyan]]'s ''[[Jalsa]]'', [[NTR Jr]]'s ''[[Kantri]]'', and [[Allu Arjun]]'s ''[[Parugu]]''.<ref name="ReferenceA"/><ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.kollywoodtoday.net/news/multifaceted-actor-prakash-raj-banned-in-tollywood/ |title=Multifaceted actor Prakash Raj banned in Tollywood |publisher=Kollywood Today |date=2 June 2008 |access-date=6 December 2013 |archive-date=17 October 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131017210504/http://www.kollywoodtoday.net/news/multifaceted-actor-prakash-raj-banned-in-tollywood/ |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.sify.com/movies/prakash-raj-banned-in-tollywood-news-tamil-kkft0idfbhg.html |title=Prakash Raj banned in Tollywood! |publisher=Sify.com |date=1 June 2008 |access-date=6 December 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131213125944/http://www.sify.com/movies/prakash-raj-banned-in-tollywood-news-tamil-kkft0idfbhg.html |archive-date=13 December 2013 |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.indiaglitz.com/channels/tamil/article/38946.html |title=Ban on Prakash Raj&nbsp;– Tamil Movie News |publisher=Indiaglitz.com |date=31 May 2008 |access-date=6 December 2013 |archive-date=17 October 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131017152646/http://www.indiaglitz.com/channels/tamil/article/38946.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.behindwoods.com/tamil-movie-news/sep-06-02/11-09-06-prakashraj.html |title=Tamil movies : Prakashraj banished from acting |publisher=Behindwoods.com |date=11 September 2006 |access-date=6 December 2013 |archive-date=17 October 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131017194045/http://www.behindwoods.com/tamil-movie-news/sep-06-02/11-09-06-prakashraj.html |url-status=dead }}</ref>
{{Main|List of awards and nominations received by Prithviraj Sukumaran}}


There was controversy for his naked appearance in a sequence in his latest Telugu release ''[[Ongole Githa]]''. The film got an "A Certificate" from the Censor Board. Prakash reacted by saying: "I did not shed my clothes for creating sensation, I had no plans to star in that sequence. The script demanded it; as an actor, I have to abide by the script. Director [[Bommarillu Bhaskar|Bhaskar]] told me that it would be an 'important' sequence in the context of the film and I just carried out his instructions."<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.kollytalk.com/cinenews/prakash-raj-defends-his-naked-act-in-ongole-githa-81687.html |title=Prakash Raj defends his 'naked' act in Ongole Githa |publisher=Kolly Talk |date=7 February 2013 |access-date=6 December 2013 |archive-date=17 October 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131017162117/http://www.kollytalk.com/cinenews/prakash-raj-defends-his-naked-act-in-ongole-githa-81687.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.indiaglitz.com/channels/tamil/videos/39550.html |title=Videos&nbsp;– Prakash Raj Defends nude scenes in 'Ongolu Gittha' |publisher=Indiaglitz.com |date=27 March 2009 |access-date=6 December 2013 |archive-date=17 October 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131017152643/http://www.indiaglitz.com/channels/tamil/videos/39550.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://entertainment.oneindia.in/telugu/news/2013/prakash-raj-defend-nudeact-scenes-ongole-gitta-103221.html |title=Prakash Raj defends his nude act scenes in Ongole Gitta&nbsp;– Oneindia Entertainment |publisher=Entertainment.oneindia.in |date=5 February 2013 |access-date=6 December 2013 |archive-date=11 October 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201011182038/https://www.filmibeat.com/telugu/news/2013/prakash-raj-defend-nudeact-scenes-ongole-gitta-103221.html |url-status=live }}</ref>
Prithviraj won the [[National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Malayalam]] for ''Indian Rupee''. He has received four [[Kerala State Film Awards]]: [[Kerala State Film Award for Best Actor|Best Actor]] for ''Vaasthavam'', ''Celluloid'' and ''Ayalum Njanum Thammil'', and ''The Goat Life'', and [[Kerala State Film Award for Best Film|Best Film]] for ''Indian Rupee''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pib.nic.in/release/rel_print_page.asp?relid=80734|title=59th National Film Awards for the Year 2011 Announced|publisher=Press Information Bureau (PIB), India|access-date=7 March 2012}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/kerala-state-film-award-prithviraj-sukumaran-urvashi-beena-r-chandran-win-top-acting-honours-2583054-2024-08-16|title=Kerala State Film Awards: Prithviraj, Urvashi, Beena R Chandran win top acting honours|date=16 August 2024|website=India Today}}</ref> He has also won the [[Filmfare Critics Award for Best Actor – Malayalam]] for ''Celluloid'' and [[Tamil Nadu State Film Award for Best Villain]] for ''Kaaviya Thalaivan''.<ref name="Critics Award for Best Actor & Actress 2013">{{Cite news |date=16 January 2017 |title=Winners list: 61st Idea Filmfare Awards (South) |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/Winners-list-61st-Idea-Filmfare-Awards-South/articleshow/38287405.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210417021558/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/Winners-list-61st-Idea-Filmfare-Awards-South/articleshow/38287405.cms |archive-date=17 April 2021 |access-date=12 March 2020 |newspaper=[[The Times of India]]}}</ref><ref name="hi">{{cite news |date=2017-07-14 |title=TN Govt announces Tamil film awards for six years |newspaper=[[The Hindu]] |url-access=subscription |location=Chennai, India |url=http://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/tn-govt-announces-tamil-film-awards-for-six-years/article19273078.ece |url-status=live |access-date=2017-07-14 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180615081711/http://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/tn-govt-announces-tamil-film-awards-for-six-years/article19273078.ece |archive-date=15 June 2018}}</ref>


Several Kannada organisations staged protests in front of theatres since they felt that some of the dialogue in a scene in the Hindi film ''[[Singham]]'', starring [[Ajay Devgan]] and Prakash were derogatory against the Kannadigas. The [[Karnataka]] Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) had demanded the deletion of all "objectionable" dialogue from the movie. The screening was stopped in major centres of Karnataka. The controversial scene starts off with Prakash threatening Ajay that he would bring 1,000 people from the Karnataka border to thrash him. Ajay (who plays Bajirao Singham, a Maratha), retorts that one lion would suffice to shoo away a thousand dogs. The controversy assumes significance in the backdrop of the decades-old border dispute between Karnataka and [[Maharashtra]]. Kannada protesters also felt that Prakash, being a [[Kannada people|Kannadiga]] should have told the team that it is not right. Prakash reacted to it to the [[Kannada language|Kannada]] and the [[Telugu language|Telugu]] media by saying: "I am a Kannadiga myself and I love my mother tongue Kannada. I'm very proud of my community and would never deliberately do anything to hurt my people. How would I allow conversations that provide pain to people of Karnataka in any movie in which I am cast? There is nothing controversial about the dialogue. I am a Maratha in the movie, the controversy has started just because I am a Kannadiga and I used the word 'Karnataka border' in the film because the villain in the film stays in [[Goa]], the Karnataka border."<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.dnaindia.com/entertainment/1568545/report-singham-dialogue-offends-kannadigas |title=Singham dialogue offends Kannadigas&nbsp;– Entertainment&nbsp;– DNA |publisher=Dnaindia.com |access-date=6 December 2013 |archive-date=17 October 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131017214517/http://www.dnaindia.com/entertainment/1568545/report-singham-dialogue-offends-kannadigas |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/bangalore/remove-derogatory-remarks-from-all-prints-of-singham/article2288183.ece |title=Remove derogatory remarks from all prints of Singham |newspaper=The Hindu |date=24 July 2011 |access-date=6 December 2013 |archive-date=11 October 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201011181901/https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/bangalore/remove-derogatory-remarks-from-all-prints-of-singham/article2288183.ece |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://andhravilas.net/movienews/224041/2/PrakashRajsdialoguesinSinghambecomecontroversial.html |title=Prakash Raj's dialogues in Singham become controversial |publisher=Andhravilas |access-date=6 December 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131018015750/http://andhravilas.net/movienews/224041/2/PrakashRajsdialoguesinSinghambecomecontroversial.html |archive-date=18 October 2013  }}</ref> Finally the dialogue was removed, and the whole team of ''Singham'' including the director, [[Rohit Shetty]], the production house "Reliance Big Entertainment" and Prakash apologised to all the Kannadigas; the issue was resolved.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-07-24/bangalore/29809306_1_reliance-big-entertainment-apology-singham |archive-url=https://archive.today/20131017210840/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-07-24/bangalore/29809306_1_reliance-big-entertainment-apology-singham |url-status=dead |archive-date=17 October 2013 |title=We're sorry, says Singham team |date=24 July 2011 |newspaper=[[The Times of India]] |access-date=6 December 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Hooli |first=Shekhar |url=http://entertainment.oneindia.in/kannada/news/2011/singham-team-apology-kannadigas-240711-aid0062.html |title=Singham team tenders apology to Kannadigas&nbsp;– Oneindia Entertainment |publisher=Entertainment.oneindia.in |date=24 July 2011 |access-date=6 December 2013 |archive-date=11 October 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201011181911/https://www.filmibeat.com/kannada/news/2011/singham-team-apology-kannadigas-240711-aid0062.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0bLPln8PeIM |title=Tv9&nbsp;– Prakash Raj's dialogues in Singham become controversial |publisher=YouTube |date=25 July 2011 |access-date=6 December 2013 |archive-date=30 January 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140130071046/http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0bLPln8PeIM |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9EWoXfkwOJg |title=TV9&nbsp;– "Prakash Raj" Apologizes Kannadigas |publisher=YouTube |date=23 July 2011 |access-date=6 December 2013 |archive-date=30 January 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140130071007/http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9EWoXfkwOJg |url-status=live }}</ref>
==See also==
* [[Forca Kochi FC]]


==References==
== References ==
{{Reflist|colwidth=30em}}
{{reflist}}


==External links==
== External links ==
{{Commons category|Prakash Raj}}
{{Commons category}}
* {{IMDb name|id=0695177|name=Prakash Raj}}
* {{IMDb name}}
* {{Rotten Tomatoes}}
* {{Bollywood Hungama person}}


{{NationalFilmAwardBestActor}}
{{Prithviraj Sukumaran}}
{{NationalFilmAwardBestSupportingActor}}
{{Kerala State Film Award for Best Actor}}
{{National Film Award Special Jury Award Feature Film}}
{{SIIMA Award for Best Actor}}
{{National Film Award Special Mention feature film}}
{{IIFAAwardBestNegativeRole}}
{{FilmfareTamilBestActor}}
{{Nandi Award for Best Character Actor}}
{{SIIMA Award for Best Actor in a Supporting Role}}
{{Authority control}}
{{Authority control}}


{{DEFAULTSORT:Raj, Prakash}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Prithviraj Sukumaran}}
[[Category:1965 births]]
[[Category:Indian male film actors]]
[[Category:Kerala State Film Award winners]]
[[Category:Living people]]
[[Category:Living people]]
[[Category:Tulu people]]
[[Category:Malayali people]]
[[Category:Mangaloreans]]
[[Category:Male actors from Thiruvananthapuram]]
[[Category:Male actors in Kannada cinema]]
[[Category:Indian Hindus]]
[[Category:Male actors in Tamil cinema]]
[[Category:Male actors in Tamil cinema]]
[[Category:1982 births]]
[[Category:Male actors in Malayalam cinema]]
[[Category:Male actors in Malayalam cinema]]
[[Category:Sainik School alumni]]
[[Category:Film producers from Thiruvananthapuram]]
[[Category:Malayalam film producers]]
[[Category:21st-century Indian male actors]]
[[Category:Male actors in Hindi cinema]]
[[Category:Male actors in Hindi cinema]]
[[Category:Indian male film actors]]
[[Category:Indian male playback singers]]
[[Category:Film producers from Bangalore]]
[[Category:Singers from Thiruvananthapuram]]
[[Category:Tamil film producers]]
[[Category:Malayalam-language playback singers]]
[[Category:Kannada film directors]]
[[Category:Male actors in Telugu cinema]]
[[Category:Tamil film directors]]
[[Category:Telugu film directors]]
[[Category:Tamil male television actors]]
[[Category:Tamil television presenters]]
[[Category:Indian male television actors]]
[[Category:Tamil Nadu State Film Awards winners]]
[[Category:Filmfare Awards South winners]]
[[Category:Best Actor National Film Award winners]]
[[Category:Best Supporting Actor National Film Award winners]]
[[Category:Nandi Award winners]]
[[Category:International Tamil Film Award winners]]
[[Category:Film directors from Bangalore]]
[[Category:Male actors from Bangalore]]
[[Category:20th-century Indian male actors]]
[[Category:21st-century Indian male actors]]
[[Category:Male actors in Kannada television]]
[[Category:South Indian International Movie Awards winners]]
[[Category:South Indian International Movie Awards winners]]
[[Category:Special Jury Award (feature film) National Film Award winners]]
[[Category:Kerala Film Critics Awards winners]]
[[Category:Special Mention (feature film) National Film Award winners]]
[[Category:University of Tasmania alumni]]
[[Category:Indian actor-politicians]]
[[Category:IIFA Utsavam winners]]
[[Category:Independent politicians in India]]
[[Category:Male actors in Telugu cinema]]
[[Category:Indian atheists]]

Latest revision as of 00:12, 24 March 2026


In this Indian name, the name Sukumaran is a patronymic, and the person should be referred to by the given name, Prithviraj.

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Prithviraj Sukumaran
Error creating thumbnail: File missing
Prithviraj in 2012
Born (1982-10-16) 16 October 1982 (age 43)
Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India
Occupation
  • Actor
  • director
  • producer
  • playback singer
Years active2002–present
OrganizationPrithviraj Productions
Works
Full list
Spouse(s)
Supriya Menon
(
m. 2011)
Children1
Parent(s)Sukumaran (father)
Mallika Sukumaran (mother)[1]
FamilySee Sukumaran family
AwardsFull list

Prithviraj Sukumaran (/pr̩t̪ʰʋiɾaːd͡ʒ/; born 16 October 1982) is an Indian actor, producer, director, and playback singer who primarily works in Malayalam language and Tamil language films.[2] Having appeared in over 100 films, Prithviraj is among the highest paid Malayalam actors.[3][4][5] His accolades include a National Film Award, four Kerala State Film Awards, a Tamil Nadu State Film Award and two Filmfare Award South.[6]

Prithviraj made his acting debut with the 2002 film Nandanam.[7] After starring in a few box-office failures, he made a comeback with Classmates (2006), the highest-grossing Malayalam film of the year, and became the youngest recipient of Kerala State Film Award for Best Actor for Vaasthavam (2006). He then played a musician in the Tamil romantic comedy Mozhi (2007) and ventured into playback singing with Puthiya Mugham (2009) before earning his second Kerala State Film Award for Best Actor for the medical drama Ayalum Njanum Thammil (2012) and the biographical film Celluloid (2013).[8]

In 2010, Prithviraj became a producer and joined the production company August Cinema. He co-produced and headlined Urumi and Indian Rupee (both 2011); the latter won the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Malayalam and Kerala State Film Award for Best Film.[9] He won the Tamil Nadu State Film Award for Best Villain for Kaaviya Thalaivan (2014) and had further success with Ennu Ninte Moideen (2015) and Ezra (2017). After leaving August Cinema in 2017, he launched Prithviraj Productions independently that first produced 9 (2019). Prithviraj made his directorial debut with Lucifer (2019), which became one of the highest-grossing Malayalam films. He has since achieved critical and commercial success with Malayalam films Driving License (2019), Ayyappanum Koshiyum (2020), Jana Gana Mana (2022), Kaduva (2022), The Goat Life (2024) and Guruvayoor Ambalanadayil (2024) and the Telugu film Salaar (2023).[10][11][12][13]

Early life and education[edit | edit source]

Prithviraj Sukumaran was born on 16 October 1982[14] to the actors Sukumaran and Mallika Sukumaran in Thiruvananthapuram.[15][16] Prithviraj hails from the well-known Nair family of south Kerala known as Kainikkara, the same family to which the famous Malayali authors Kainikkara Padmanabha Pillai and Kainikkara Kumara Pillai belonged.[17] His maternal grandfather, Madhavan Pillai, was also a Gandhian and political activist who supported the Indian National Congress.[18] His family was settled in Tamil Nadu at the time, where he attended Shrine Vailankanni School in T. Nagar, Chennai, and St. Joseph's Boys School, Coonoor.[19]

When his family moved to Kerala, he attended the NSS Public School, in Perunthanni, Trivandrum.[20] He then moved to St. Mary's Residential Central School in Poojappura where he acted in plays and skits for the school's annual day celebrations. He completed his education at Sainik School, Kazhakootam, and Bhavan's Senior Secondary School, Kodunganoor in Thiruvananthapuram.

After school, he enrolled in a bachelor's degree in Information Technology at the University of Tasmania in Australia but did not complete it. His highest level of education is higher secondary (+2) education.[21][22] During this time, he auditioned for film director Ranjith and won the lead role in the film Nandanam.[7] It was film director Fazil who introduced him to Ranjith.[7] His elder brother, Indrajith Sukumaran, and sister-in-law, Poornima Indrajith, are also film actors.

Career[edit | edit source]

Debut and career struggles (2002–2008)[edit | edit source]

In 2001, Prithviraj underwent a screen-test by director Fazil for one of his projects. Even though that project never materialised, Fazil recommended him to director Ranjith, who was planning his second directorial, Nandanam (2002), Prithviraj underwent screen-test for the role and got selected. Though Nandanam was the first film that Prithviraj acted in, it was released after Nakshathrakkannulla Rajakumaran Avanundoru Rajakumari and Stop Violence. Prithviraj then appeared in films directed by Lohithadas, Vinayan, Kamal and Bhadran. Shyamaprasad, who cast him as the lead in his film Akale, said that Prithviraj's advantages are his talent and intelligence irrespective of his box office successes.[23]

Prithviraj in 2005

In 2005, Prithviraj Sukumaran debuted in Tamil cinema through Kana Kandaen.[24] He starred in Director Santosh Sivan’s Anandabhadram in which he portrayed a character called Anandan who is a young NRI who likes his mother’s native village, a place known for powerful wizards and go through several human emotions.[25] In 2006, Prithviraj co-starred with actor Bhagyaraj's daughter Saranya Bhagyaraj in Parijatham. It became an acclaimed film.[26]

In 2006, he played the role of Sub Inspector Solomon Joseph in Vargam, and then appeared in the film Vaasthavam, for which he received the Kerala State Film Award for Best Actor.[27] He was the youngest actor to win the award.[28] The same year he starred in Lal Jose's Classmates. The coming-of-age romantic comedy-drama was one of the biggest hits of his career.[25] In 2007, he starred in Chocolate, directed by Shafi.[29] In 2007, Prithviraj co-starred Jyothika in Mozhi. He also starred in Satham Podathey and Kannamoochi Yenada in the same year.

In 2008, he starred in Thalappavu, (directed by Madhupal) and Thirakkatha (directed by Ranjith), playing pivotal characters in both. One of the reviews of Thalappavu describes it as the coming-of-age film for prithviraj describing the "spartan dignity" he brought to his portrayal of the Naxalite Joseph.[30] The Sify review of Thirakkatha describes it as a "genuine attempt that keeps the viewer engaged until the end".[31] Both Thalappavu and Thirakkatha shared the award for the best film in the Film Critics Award for 2008. In 2008, Prithviraj starred in Vellithirai, the Tamil remake of Udayananu Tharam. Rediff described, "Prithviraj ... makes the best of his assets – his expressive eyes, which glint in fury, soften with love, or brim over with frustrated tears."[32]

Established actor (2009–2012)[edit | edit source]

In 2009, the success of Prithviraj Sukumaran's Puthiya Mugham (directed by Diphan) was a major turning point in the actor's career and led to him being branded as a superstar.[33][34] His other releases in 2009 were Robin Hood (directed by Joshy) and the anthology film Kerala Cafe. In 2010, Sukumaran's notable films were Pokkiri Raja and Anwar, directed by Amal Neerad. He played the antagonist in Mani Ratnam's Raavanan in 2010 alongside actor Vikram who played the main protagonist. His performance was critically acclaimed.[35] In the same year, Prithviraj debuted in Telugu cinema in the film Police Police.

In 2011, Prithviraj produced his first film, the multilingual Urumi. His other releases included City of God, Manikyakallu, Veettilekkulla Vazhi and Indian Rupee. Critics praised Prithviraj for his performance in Indian Rupee, a critic at Nowrunning.com, called it his "careers best performance".[36] In 2012, his releases included Hero, Molly Aunty Rocks! and Ayalum Njanum Thammil, along with cameo roles in Aakashathinte Niram. He also made a special appearance in Anjali Menon's Manjadikuru.

In that same year, Prithviraj debuted in Hindi cinema through Aiyyaa, starring alongside Rani Mukerji.[37]

Critical acclaim and further success (2013–2018)[edit | edit source]

In 2013, Prithviraj had three releases Celluloid, Mumbai Police and Memories, all of which were critical and commercial successes. He portrayed J.C. Daniel in Celluloid, for which he won his second Kerala State Film Award for Best Actor.[8] He also played the role of a police officer in Aurangzeb, directed by Athul Sabharwal which was his second project in Hindi cinema.[38]

In 2014, Prithviraj's first major release was London Bridge, which was a box office failure; followed by 7th Day, which emerged as a commercial success. He also featured in a cameo role in Munnariyippu. His third release of the year, Sapthamashree Thaskaraha was praised by critics. Prithviraj also starred in director Vasanthabalan's period film Kaaviya Thalaivan, co-starring Siddharth.

His first release of 2015 was Picket 43, followed by other releases such as Shyamaprasad's Ivide. Prithviraj was widely praised for his performance in the film. He next appeared in Lijo Jose Pellissery's Double Barrel.

His most successful film of that year was Ennu Ninte Moideen co starring Parvathy which narrated the tragic love tale of Kanchanamala and Moideen that happened in the 1960s in Mukkam, a riverside village in Kerala. The film opened to critical acclaim, with several critics regarding it as one of the greatest romance films made in Malayalam cinema.[39][40] His role as Moideen is regarded as one of the best in his career.[41] His next releases Amar Akbar Anthony and Anarkali were major commercial success.

Prithviraj with his mother Mallika Sukumaran and niece Prarthana Indrajith at an event in 2009

Prithviraj had four releases in 2016, beginning with Paavada, a family drama in which he played a drunkard. It met with a positive response and was a commercial success and ran for 100 days in theatres. His other releases Darvinte Parinamam and James & Alice were met with mixed reviews, the former told the story of an ordinary man dealing with a local goon and the latter was a family drama that discussed the matter of life and death. His last release, Oozham, an action thriller directed by Jeethu Joseph was a commercial success. He played a demolition expert.[42] In 2017, he starred in the horror film Ezra, which became one of the highest-grossing Malayalam films of the year, grossing ₹50 crore worldwide.[43] His other releases that year included Tiyaan, Adam Joan and Vimaanam. Both Tiyaan and Vimaanam were moderate box office hits. He starred in his third Hindi film, Naam Shabana.[44]

His first release of 2018 was Roshini Dinakar's romantic drama My Story, a commercial failure at the box office. His next two releases were Anjali Menon's drama Koode and Nirmal Sahadev's crime drama Ranam. Koode received critical acclaim and was a commercial success[25] while Ranam was met with positive critical response but performed moderately at the box office. In 2018, Prithviraj launched his independent production house, Prithviraj Productions. In 2019, he produced and starred in the science fiction film 9. The film received was a box office success.[45]

Lucifer and beyond (2019–present)[edit | edit source]

Prithviraj made his directorial debut in 2019 with the film Lucifer, starring Mohanlal. The film became one of the highest-grossing Malayalam film.[46] In the following years, he would go onto star in the comedy-drama Driving License (2019), Ayyappanum Koshiyum (2020), Jana Gana Mana (2022), Kaduva (2022) and Salaar: Part 1 – Ceasefire (2023), all of which emerged as box office successes. However, Brother's Day, Kaapa, and Gold failed at the box office. In 2024, he acted in the survival drama, Aadujeevitham, directed by Blessy. Prithviraj had been cast for the project 16 years prior in 2008. Aadujeevitham was critically and commercially successful with Prithviraj earning critical acclaim for his performance.[47] His second release, Bade Miyan Chote Miyan, marking his fourth film in Hindi cinema, received negative reviews from critics and was a box-office bomb.[48] His third release, the comedy-drama Guruvayoor Ambalanadayil was also a commercial success.[49] Both films ranks among the list of List of highest-grossing Malayalam films of all time. He won the Kerala State Film Award for Best Actor for Aadujeevitham that year.[50] In 2025, he directed and starred in L2: Empuraan, a sequel to Lucifer. The film received mixed reviews from critics but still emerged as a commercial success.[51]

Prithviraj next appeared in the Hindi film Sarzameen (2025), directed by Kayoze Irani, the son of Boman Irani, and produced by Karan Johar, Apoorva Mehta, and Adar Poonawalla under Dharma Productions. It released directly onto JioHotstar to mixed-to-negative reviews.[52] His another release in the year 2025 was Vilayath Buddha, which turned to be an underperformer.[53][54][55]

In 2026, he will appear in the highly anticipated sequel to Salaar: Part 1 - Ceasefire, Salaar: Part 2 - Shouryanga Parvam. He has also signed on to appear in malayalam films Nobody, and Santhosh Trophy. Varanasi, directed by S. S. Rajamouli and co-starring Mahesh Babu and Priyanka Chopra is one of his most anticipated films.[56]

Personal life[edit | edit source]

Prithviraj married BBC India reporter Supriya Menon on 25 April 2011 in a private ceremony held in Palakkad.[57][58] They have a daughter, born in 2014. Prithviraj and his family used to reside in Thevara, Kochi.[59][60] Since 2024, he has been staying at a house bought for ₹30 crores, at Pali Hill, Mumbai.[61]

Other ventures[edit | edit source]

Prithviraj Productions is an Indian film production and distribution company based in Kochi, established in 2017 by Prithviraj and his wife Supriya Menon. Since then, it has produced and distributed over 10 films.[62][63]

As a producer[edit | edit source]

Year Film Director Language Notes Ref.
2019 9 Jenuse Mohamed Malayalam [64]
Driving Licence Lal Jr. Malayalam [65]
2021 Kuruthi Manu Warrier Malayalam [66]
2022 Jana Gana Mana Dijo Jose Antony Malayalam [67]
Kaduva Shaji Kailas Malayalam [68]
Gold Alphonse Puthren Malayalam [69]
2023 Selfiee Raj Mehta Hindi Remake of Driving Licence [70]
2024 Guruvayoor Ambalanadayil Vipin Das Malayalam [71]

As a distributor[edit | edit source]

Year Film Director Language Notes Ref.
2019 Petta Karthik Subbaraj Tamil [72]
Bigil Atlee [73]
2021 Master Lokesh Kanagaraj [74]
Doctor Nelson Dilipkumar [75]
83 Kabir Khan Hindi
2022 KGF: Chapter 2 Prashanth Neel Kannada Distributed Malayalam version [76]
777 Charlie Kiranraj K. [77]
Kantara Rishab Shetty [78]
Kumari Nirmal Sahadev Malayalam [79]
2023 Salaar: Part 1 – Ceasefire Prashanth Neel Telugu Distributed Malayalam version [80]
2024 The Goat Life Blessy Malayalam [81]

In the media[edit | edit source]

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Prithviraj in 2008

Prithviraj is considered among the most popular and highest-paid actors of Malayalam cinema.[3][4] He was placed fourth in 2013 and first in 2015, in Rediff.com "Best Malayalam Actor" list.[82][83] His performance in Mumbai Police is regarded as one of the "100 Greatest Performances of the Decade" by Film Companion.[84] Prithviraj was named the Kochi Times Most Desirable Men of 2017 and 2019. He was further placed 4th in 2018 and 2nd in 2020, on the same list.[85][86][87][88] A research study conducted in 2023 by Indian Institute of Human Brands (IIHB) stated that Prithviraj was the third highest-ranked celebrity in Malayalam cinema.[89] In 2024, Hindustan Times placed him in their "Top Performances of the Year" list.[90] In 2024, Prithviraj was placed 100th on IMDb's List of 100 Most Viewed Indian Stars.[91]

Filmography[edit | edit source]

Main article: Prithviraj Sukumaran filmography

Accolades[edit | edit source]

Main article: List of awards and nominations received by Prithviraj Sukumaran

Prithviraj won the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Malayalam for Indian Rupee. He has received four Kerala State Film Awards: Best Actor for Vaasthavam, Celluloid and Ayalum Njanum Thammil, and The Goat Life, and Best Film for Indian Rupee.[92][93] He has also won the Filmfare Critics Award for Best Actor – Malayalam for Celluloid and Tamil Nadu State Film Award for Best Villain for Kaaviya Thalaivan.[94][95]

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

  1. ↑ "Prithviraj Sukumaran calls his mom Mallika Sukumaran 'the strongest woman' he has ever seen". The Times of India. ISSN 0971-8257. Retrieved 1 September 2024.
  2. ↑ "Prithviraj: The director's actor". Khaleejtimes.com. 17 January 2016. Archived from the original on 24 June 2016. Retrieved 10 June 2016.
  3. ↑ 3.0 3.1 "Mammootty to Mohanlal: Highest paid actors in the Malayalam film industry". The Times of India. 14 July 2022. Archived from the original on 14 October 2023. Retrieved 21 August 2022.
  4. ↑ 4.0 4.1 "Highest paid Malayalam actors, check who tops the list". Onmanorama. Archived from the original on 29 December 2022. Retrieved 28 November 2022.
  5. ↑ "What does Bollywood have against the south Indian hero?". First Post. Archived from the original on 20 February 2017.
  6. ↑ "Can now afford to slow down my career in south: Prithviraj". Deccan Herald. 15 May 2013. Archived from the original on 13 February 2017. Retrieved 10 June 2016.
  7. ↑ 7.0 7.1 7.2 Roshni, R. K. (13 May 2004). "On the road to stardom". The Hindu. Retrieved 25 January 2024.
  8. ↑ 8.0 8.1 "Celluloid actor Prithviraj bags the Kerala State Film Awards". IBNLive.in.com. 22 February 2012. Archived from the original on 28 March 2013. Retrieved 22 February 2012.
  9. ↑ "Prithviraj turns producer with Urumi". Sify. 17 July 2010. Archived from the original on 3 August 2016. Retrieved 10 June 2016.
  10. ↑ "'Jana Gana Mana' box office collection day 26: Prithviraj starrer enters the 50-crore club". The Times of India. Retrieved 6 June 2022.
  11. ↑ "വമ്പൻ ഹിറ്റായി ഗുരുവായൂര്‍ അമ്പലനടയില്‍, കളക്ഷനില്‍ വിദേശത്തും കുതിപ്പ്". Asianet News (in മലയാളം). 24 June 2024.
  12. ↑ "Aavesham and Varshangalkku Shesham Box Office: Vishu releases continue the glory streak of Mollywood; Read on". PinkVilla. 15 April 2024. Archived from the original on 15 April 2024. Retrieved 15 April 2024.
  13. ↑ "Salaar Worldwide Box Office Update". Box Office India. 5 January 2024.
  14. ↑ "Prithviraj on a Roll (Turns 27)". The Hindu. Chennai, India. 15 October 2009. Archived from the original on 27 January 2010. Retrieved 12 July 2010.
  15. ↑ "Hope I make you proud: Prithviraj on father Sukumaran's death anniversary". OnManorama. 15 June 2020. Archived from the original on 17 April 2021. Retrieved 26 January 2021.
  16. ↑ "Latest News of Prithviraj Sukumaran". The Times of India. Archived from the original on 20 February 2023. Retrieved 3 October 2022.
  17. ↑ Manorama News (14 April 2022). 'ഞാന്‍ ഉദേശിച്ച രീതിയിലുള്ള കുടുംബ ജീവിതമായിരുന്നില്ല അത്'; ജീവിതം പറഞ്ഞ് മല്ലിക. Retrieved 20 April 2025 – via YouTube.
  18. ↑ Manorama News (14 April 2022). 'ഞാന്‍ ഉദേശിച്ച രീതിയിലുള്ള കുടുംബ ജീവിതമായിരുന്നില്ല അത്'; ജീവിതം പറഞ്ഞ് മല്ലിക. Retrieved 20 April 2025 – via YouTube.
  19. ↑ "പ്രിത്വിക്കു നൊന്ത്തൽ ഇന്ദ്രന് വേദനിക്കും:Interview with Mallika Sukumaran". nanaonline.in. Archived from the original on 17 January 2016. Retrieved 17 October 2015.
  20. ↑ "പൃഥ്വിയ്ക്ക് എന്തെങ്കിലും വിഷമമുണ്ടായാല് ഇന്ദ്രനാണ് ദുഃഖം :Interview with Mallika Sukumaran". malayalam.oneindia.com. 16 October 2015. Archived from the original on 17 October 2015. Retrieved 17 October 2015.
  21. ↑ "Prithviraj's inspiring speech on acting goes viral". Onmanorama. 22 July 2019. Retrieved 7 April 2025.
  22. ↑ "ഞാൻ ഗ്രാഡ്ജുയേറ്റ് അല്ല. എനിക്ക് എഡ്യൂക്കേഷണൽ ക്വാളിഫിക്കേഷൻ ഇല്ല #prithviraj". YouTube.
  23. ↑ George, Vijay (7 October 2005). "Advantage Prithviraj". The Hindu. Chennai, India. Archived from the original on 14 October 2010. Retrieved 27 November 2008.
  24. ↑ "Prithiviraj is a bad man!". The Times of India. 21 July 2008. Archived from the original on 15 July 2023. Retrieved 26 November 2023.
  25. ↑ 25.0 25.1 25.2 "Prithviraj @ 42: 7 movies to watch on the Malayalam star's birthday". The Indian Express. 16 October 2024. Retrieved 2 November 2024.
  26. ↑ "'Parijatham' is a hit!". Sify. 14 June 2006. Archived from the original on 24 September 2015.
  27. ↑ "State film awards announced". The Hindu. Chennai, India. 10 February 2007. Archived from the original on 29 June 2011. Retrieved 24 November 2008.
  28. ↑ George, Vijay (16 February 2007). "Portrait of a winner". The Hindu. Archived from the original on 25 August 2010. Retrieved 24 November 2008.
  29. ↑ Palicha, Paresh (15 October 2007). "Prithviraj shines in Chocolate and classmates". Rediff. Archived from the original on 9 December 2008. Retrieved 10 December 2008.
  30. ↑ "Thalappavu Review". Nowrunning.com. 15 September 2008. Archived from the original on 14 July 2011. Retrieved 10 December 2008.
  31. ↑ "Thirakkadha". Sify. Archived from the original on 11 August 2011. Retrieved 10 December 2008.
  32. ↑ Vellithirai is worth watching Archived 4 August 2009 at the Wayback Machine. Rediff.com. Retrieved on 5 December 2010.
  33. ↑ Kerala Box- office (25 July – 25 Aug) Archived 25 February 2015 at the Wayback Machine. Sify.com (26 August 2009). Retrieved on 5 December 2010.
  34. ↑ "New superstar on the block". The Hindu. Chennai, India. 28 August 2009. Archived from the original on 29 November 2010. Retrieved 29 August 2009.
  35. ↑ Raavanan is better than Raavan – Rediff.com Movies Archived 5 May 2016 at the Wayback Machine. Movies.rediff.com (18 June 2010). Retrieved on 5 December 2010.
  36. ↑ "Indian Rupee Review". Nowrunning.com. 7 October 2011. Archived from the original on 8 October 2011. Retrieved 7 October 2011.
  37. ↑ "Rani Mukerjee signs Anurag Kashyap's next". Ndtv.com. 4 October 2011. Archived from the original on 23 June 2012. Retrieved 20 October 2011.
  38. ↑ "Prithviraj to star in YRF's Aurangzeb". Bollywood Hungama. 12 June 2012. Archived from the original on 8 August 2012. Retrieved 17 July 2012.
  39. ↑ Rejath RG (21 September 2015). "Ennu Ninte Moideen is truly epic" Archived 25 September 2015 at the Wayback Machine. Kerala Kaumudi. Retrieved 21 September 2015.
  40. ↑ Akhila Menon (20 September 2015). "Ennu Ninte Moideen Movie Review: An Eternal Love Saga!" Archived 25 September 2015 at the Wayback Machine. Retrieved 20 September 2015.
  41. ↑ "19 നാളില്‍ മൊയ്തീന് 20 കോടി" Archived 12 October 2015 at the Wayback Machine. Deshabhimani. Retrieved 15 October 2015.
  42. ↑ "'From Paavada to Oozham, here's how Prithviraj Sukumaran fared in 2016'". Archived from the original on 16 April 2017. Retrieved 2 April 2017.
  43. ↑ "Ezra : Prithviraj a star emerges 8th Rs. 50 crore grosser of Malayalam cinema". Archived from the original on 13 April 2017. Retrieved 13 April 2017.
  44. ↑ "Naam Shabana, Prithviraj's third shot to Bollywood stardom". Asianet News Network Pvt Ltd. Archived from the original on 8 November 2022. Retrieved 8 November 2022.
  45. ↑ "'9' makes the producers happy!". OnManorama. Archived from the original on 31 July 2019. Retrieved 31 July 2019.
  46. ↑ Kumar, Karthik (4 June 2019). "Mohanlal's Lucifer storms into Rs 200 crore club, first for Malayalam cinema". Hindustan Times. Archived from the original on 11 June 2019. Retrieved 12 June 2019.
  47. ↑ Praveen, S. R. (28 March 2024). "'Aadujeevitham – The Goat Life' movie review: Prithviraj's performance drives a survival drama that borders on monotony". The Hindu. ISSN 0971-751X. Retrieved 20 August 2024.
  48. ↑ "Prithviraj Sukumaran shares why he thought he wouldn't be able to do Bade Miyan Chote Miyan, reveals who convinced him". Hindustan Times. 2 April 2024. Archived from the original on 18 June 2024. Retrieved 19 April 2025.
  49. ↑ Praveen, S. R. (16 May 2024). "'Guruvayoor Ambalanadayil' movie review: Prithviraj and Basil Joseph's humorous bromance loses steam halfway through". The Hindu. ISSN 0971-751X. Retrieved 20 August 2024.
  50. ↑ "Kerala State Film Awards: Prithviraj, Urvashi, Beena R Chandran win top acting honours". India Today. 16 August 2024.
  51. ↑ "Made for Rs 180 crore, this superhit film earned Rs..., now set to release on OTT, film is .., lead actors are..." www.india.com. Retrieved 19 April 2025.
  52. ↑ "Sarzameen teaser: Ibrahim plays terrorist, Prithviraj a soldier in high-stakes drama". India Today. 30 June 2025. Retrieved 30 June 2025.
  53. ↑ "Prithviraj Sukumaran calls it wrap for Vilayath Buddha, recounting 2-year journey and enduring surgery". PINKVILLA. 3 March 2025. Retrieved 3 March 2025.
  54. ↑ "'Nobody': Prithviraj Sukumaran announces his next film with 'Rorschach' director Nissam Basheer". The Times of India. 28 August 2024. ISSN 0971-8257. Retrieved 3 March 2025.
  55. ↑ "Prithviraj Sukumaran reunites with 'Guruvayoor Ambalanadayil' director for his next 'Santhosh Trophy'". The Times of India. 16 October 2024. ISSN 0971-8257. Retrieved 3 March 2025.
  56. ↑ "Rajamouli's 'SSMB29' with Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra and 500 crew filming at Odisha's hidden gems". Economic Times. 10 March 2025. Retrieved 5 June 2024.
  57. ↑ "Prithviraj gets married in Palakkad". The Hindu. Palakkad. 25 April 2011. Archived from the original on 21 August 2011. Retrieved 2 October 2011.
  58. ↑ Prakash, Asha (28 April 2011). "Prithviraj: No more a bachelor boy". The Indian Express. Archived from the original on 4 March 2016. Retrieved 28 April 2011.
  59. ↑ "Malayalam film artists CONTACT DETAILS". Archived from the original on 11 April 2017. Retrieved 10 April 2017.
  60. ↑ "പൃഥ്വിയുടെ പുതിയ വീട്; ലൂസിഫറിന്റെ ഓഫീസ്!". ManoramaOnline. Retrieved 27 June 2024.
  61. ↑ "Prithviraj Sukumaran buys Rs 30 crore luxury duplex in Mumbai's Pali Hill - Exclusive". The Times of India. 17 September 2024.
  62. ↑ "Prithviraj, wife Supriya launch production company". Mathrubhumi. Archived from the original on 31 January 2021. Retrieved 16 March 2021.
  63. ↑ Hooli, Shekhar H. "Prithviraj Sukumaran starts new production house with wife Supriya Menon". IBT. Archived from the original on 30 January 2021. Retrieved 16 March 2021.
  64. ↑ "'9' trailer captures the pace of the movie: Jenuse Mohd". www.onmanorama.com. Retrieved 30 May 2024.
  65. ↑ Native, Digital (5 April 2019). "Prithviraj to produce 'Driving License'". The News Minute. Retrieved 30 May 2024.
  66. ↑ Rangan, Baradwaj (9 August 2021). "Kuruthi, With Prithviraj On Amazon Prime Video, Is A Solid Home-Invasion Thriller That Transcends The Genre". www.filmcompanion.in. Archived from the original on 30 May 2024. Retrieved 30 May 2024.
  67. ↑ Menon, Vishal (8 April 2022). "Jana Gana Mana Is A Cleverly Deceptive Political Film That Doesn't Trade Entertainment With Its Importance". www.filmcompanion.in. Archived from the original on 30 May 2024. Retrieved 30 May 2024.
  68. ↑ "Kaduva makers shamelessly altered events in my grandfather's life'". www.onmanorama.com. Retrieved 30 May 2024.
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