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{{Short description|Indian film actor}}
{{Short description|Indian actor}}
 
{{Use Indian English|date=August 2016}}
{{Use Indian English|date=August 2016}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=August 2016}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=August 2016}}
{{Infobox person
{{Infobox person
| name              = Aari Arujunan
| name              = Aari Arujunan
| image              = Actor Aari Arujunan at an NGO event.jpg
| image              = Actor Aari Arujunan at an NGO event (cropped).jpg
| caption            =  
| caption            = Aari Arujunan at an NGO event
| other_names       =  
| birth_place       = [[Palani]], [[Dindigul District]], [[Tamil Nadu]], [[India]]
| birth_name        = <!-- Use only if different than name. -->
| birth_date        = <!---Must be attributed to a reliable source, see WP:BLPPRIVACY--->
| birth_date        = <!---Must be attributed to a reliable source, see WP:BLPPRIVACY--->
| nationality        = Indian
| occupation        = Actor, fitness coach
| occupation        = Actor
| years_active      = 2005–present
| years_active      = 2004–present
| spouse            = {{Marriage|Nathiya|2015}}
| spouse            = {{Marriage|Nathiya|2015}}
| children          = 1
| children          = 2
| website            =
}}
}}


'''Aari Arujunan,''' known by the mononym '''Aari''', is an Indian actor who has appeared in Tamil language films. He made his feature film debut in ''[[Rettaisuzhi]]'' (2010) produced by director [[S. Shankar|Shankar]], before having a breakthrough performance as Murugan in ''[[Nedunchaalai]]'' (2014) and starring in the supernatural thriller ''[[Maya (2015 Tamil film)|Maya]]''. In 2021, he emerged as the title winner of the Tamil reality television show ''[[Bigg Boss (Tamil season 4)|Bigg Boss Tamil Season 4]]''.
'''Aari Arujunan''' is an Indian actor who has appeared in [[Tamil language]] films. He made his lead debut in ''[[Rettaisuzhi]]'' (2010) produced by director [[S. Shankar|Shankar]], before having a breakthrough performance in ''[[Nedunchaalai]]'' (2014) and starring in the supernatural thriller ''[[Maya (2015 Tamil film)|Maya]]''.<ref>{{Cite news |title= Aari Arujunan|url=https://www.moviebuff.com/aari-arujunan |work=moviebuff}}</ref> In 2021, he emerged as the winner of the reality television show ''[[Bigg Boss (Tamil season 4)|Bigg Boss 4]]''.<ref>{{Cite news |title=Bigg Boss Tamil 4 winner Aari Arjuna: From being a Guinness record holder to the most nominated contestant in the BB house, all you need to know about the actor |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/tv/news/tamil/bigg-boss-tamil-4-winner-aari-arjuna-from-being-a-guinness-record-holder-to-the-most-nominated-contestant-in-the-bb-house-all-you-need-to-about-the-actor/photostory/80324593.cms |access-date=2021-01-18 |work=The Times of India}}</ref>


==Career==
==Career==
Aari, before entering films, had background in theatre featuring in productions by Magic Lantern, Theatre Nisha and Inland Theatres.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hindu.com/cp/2011/01/02/stories/2011010250100400.htm|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110426042247/http://www.hindu.com/cp/2011/01/02/stories/2011010250100400.htm|url-status=dead|archive-date=2011-04-26|work=[[The Hindu]]|date=2011-01-02|title=News Archives:}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.newindianexpress.com/entertainment/tamil/article584202.ece|title=Aari's acting dreams|work=The New Indian Express}}</ref> He was cast the role of Muthu in ''[[Aadum Koothu]]'' (2005).<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-features/tp-metroplus/taking-to-the-highway/article5931847.ece|title=Taking to the highway|work=The Hindu}}</ref> Aari made his feature film debut in ''[[Rettaisuzhi]]'', produced by director [[S. Shankar|Shankar]]. He appeared as Murthy, an army man, returning to his village.


In October 2011 it was announced that Aari would feature in ''[[Maalai Pozhudhin Mayakathilaey]]'' and would star alongside winner of Miss South India 2010, [[Shubha Phutela]]. Aari mentioned that it was "really challenging to play an ordinary guy", as he had to consciously keep his emotions to a minimum at all times.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/regional/news-interviews/Playing-a-simple-person-the-toughest-job-Aari/articleshow/12044267.cms|title=Playing a simple person the toughest job: Aari|work=The Times of India}}</ref>
Aari, before entering films, had background in theatre featuring in productions by Magic Lantern, Theatre Nisha and Inland Theatres.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hindu.com/cp/2011/01/02/stories/2011010250100400.htm|archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20110426042247/http://www.hindu.com/cp/2011/01/02/stories/2011010250100400.htm|url-status=dead|archive-date=2011-04-26|work=[[The Hindu]]|date=2011-01-02|title=Challenging roles}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.newindianexpress.com/entertainment/tamil/article584202.ece|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150426185010/http://www.newindianexpress.com/entertainment/tamil/article584202.ece|url-status=dead|archive-date=26 April 2015|title=Aari's acting dreams|work=The New Indian Express}}</ref> He appeared in a minor role in ''[[Alaiyadikkuthu]]'' (2005) and was later cast in the role of Muthu in ''[[Aadum Koothu]]'' (2006).<ref name=":1">{{cite news|url=http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-features/tp-metroplus/taking-to-the-highway/article5931847.ece|title=Taking to the highway|work=The Hindu|date=20 April 2014 }}</ref> He worked for [[T. V. Chandran]]'s ''[[Aadum Koothu]]'' (2005).<ref>{{Cite news |title=Aadum Koothu|url=https://www.imdb.com/fr/title/tt2575568/ |work=Imdb}}</ref>
 
Aari made his lead debut in ''[[Rettaisuzhi]]'' (2010), produced by director [[S. Shankar|Shankar]].<ref>{{Cite news |title=On the highway of fame|url=https://www.thehindu.com/features/cinema/on-the-highway-of-fame/article5928995.ece |access-date=2016-05-21 |work=The Hindu}}</ref> In October 2011, it was announced that Aari would feature in ''[[Maalai Pozhudhin Mayakathilaey]]'' and would star alongside winner of Miss South India 2010, [[Shubha Phutela]]. Aari mentioned that it was "really challenging to play an ordinary guy", as he had to consciously keep his emotions to a minimum at all times.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/regional/news-interviews/Playing-a-simple-person-the-toughest-job-Aari/articleshow/12044267.cms|title=Playing a simple person the toughest job: Aari|work=The Times of India|date=15 January 2017 }}</ref> Aari portrayed the lead role in [[N. Krishna]]'s third venture, a romantic road trip film titled ''[[Nedunchaalai]]'' (2014), a period film set in the 1980, which took two years to complete.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://behindwoods.com/tamil-actors/aari/aari-interview.html|title=Aari Interview|publisher=}}</ref>The film opened to positive reviews.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.sify.com/movies/nedunchalai-review-tamil-15052114.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140328222746/http://www.sify.com/movies/nedunchalai-review-tamil-15052114.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=2014-03-28|title=Review : Nedunchalai|work=Sify}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.thehindu.com/features/cinema/cinema-reviews/nedunchalai-road-rage/article5848263.ece|title=Nedunchalai: Road rage|author=Baradwaj Rangan|work=The Hindu|date=29 March 2014 }}</ref> His following venture, the comedy ''Kadai Enn 6'', remains unreleased.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.newindianexpress.com/entertainment/tamil/Variety-Seeker-Aari-Gets-Laughter-Break/2014/10/08/article2466927.ece1|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141015022236/http://www.newindianexpress.com/entertainment/tamil/Variety-Seeker-Aari-Gets-Laughter-Break/2014/10/08/article2466927.ece1|url-status=dead|archive-date=15 October 2014|title=Variety-Seeker Aari Gets Laughter Break|work=The New Indian Express}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |title='Kadai Enn 6' about the mindset of Chennai youngsters |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/kadai-enn-6-about-the-mindset-of-chennai-youngsters/articleshow/40369414.cms |access-date=2017-01-16 |work=The Times of India}}</ref> Another venture ''[[Dharani (film)|Dharani]]'' directed by newcomer Guhan Sambandham, released in 2015, which did not perform well.<ref>{{Cite news |title=Dharani |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movie-reviews/dharani/movie-review/46069674.cms |access-date=2015-01-30 |work=The Times of India}}</ref> In the same year, he played a pivotal role in ''[[Maya (2015 Tamil film)|Maya]]'', a supernatural thriller alongside [[Nayanthara]].<ref>{{Cite news |title=Nayanthara's love for horror films helped director Ashwin Saravanan make 'Maya' |url=https://www.dnaindia.com/entertainment/report-nayanthara-s-love-for-horror-films-helped-director-ashwin-saravanan-make-maya-2125978 |access-date=2015-09-17 |work=DNA india}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |title=Review: Maya is a truly haunting experience
|url=https://www.rediff.com/movies/review/review-maya-is-a-truly-haunting-experience/20150918.htm |access-date=2015-09-18 |work=Rediff}}</ref> It was a huge success at the box office and was critically acclaimed.<ref>{{Cite news |title=CHENNAI BOX OFFICE |url=https://www.behindwoods.com/tamil-movies/maya/maya-box-office-nov-01.html |access-date=2015-11-01 |work=Behindwoods}}</ref> In 2016, he was seen in ''[[Unnodu Ka|Unnodu Ka]]'', which performed average reviews.<ref>{{Cite news |title=Unnodu Ka |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movie-reviews/unnodu-ka/movie-review/52280036.cms |access-date=2016-05-13 |work=The Times of India}}</ref> Later, he was cast in horror comedy ''[[Nagesh Thiraiyarangam]]'' in lead role opposite [[Ashna Zaveri]].<ref>{{Cite news |title=Nagesh Thiraiarangam Review: A horror film indeed
|url=https://www.cinemaexpress.com/reviews/tamil/2018/Feb/16/nagesh-thiraiarangam-review-a-horror-film-indeed-4579.html |access-date=2018-02-16 |work=Cinema Express}}</ref>
 
In January 2021, he emerged as the title winner in the reality show ''[[Bigg Boss Tamil 4]]''.<ref>{{Cite web|last=admin|title=Everything about Aari Arjuna Big Boss 4 - CelebWoods.com|url=https://www.celebwoods.com/big-boss-aari-arjuna-family-biography/|access-date=2021-03-02|language=en}}</ref>


Aari portrayed the lead role in [[N. Krishna]]'s third venture, a romantic road trip film titled ''[[Nedunchaalai]]'' (2014), a period film set in the 1980, which took two years to complete.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://behindwoods.com/tamil-actors/aari/aari-interview.html|title=Aari Interview|publisher=}}</ref> Post-release, a critic noted "Aari immerses himself in the central character of Murugan with such conviction and controlled flair that it becomes impossible to separate the actor from the part".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.sify.com/movies/nedunchalai-review-tamil-15052114.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140328222746/http://www.sify.com/movies/nedunchalai-review-tamil-15052114.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=2014-03-28|title=Review : Nedunchalai|work=Sify}}</ref> The film opened to positive reviews.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thehindu.com/features/cinema/cinema-reviews/nedunchalai-road-rage/article5848263.ece|title=Nedunchalai: Road rage|author=Baradwaj Rangan|work=The Hindu}}</ref> His following venture, the comedy ''[[Kadai Enn 6]]'', remains unreleased.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.newindianexpress.com/entertainment/tamil/Variety-Seeker-Aari-Gets-Laughter-Break/2014/10/08/article2466927.ece1|title=Variety-Seeker Aari Gets Laughter Break|work=The New Indian Express}}</ref> Another venture ''[[Dharani (film)|Dharani]]'' directed by newcomer Guhan Sambandham, released in 2015, which did not perform well. In the same year he played a pivotal role in [[Maya (2015 Tamil film)|''Maya'']], supernatural thriller alongside [[Nayanthara]]. Maya was a huge success at the box office and was critically acclaimed. He was again cast in a lead role in [[Krishna (director)|N.Krishna]]'s next venture, [[Maane Thaene Paeye|''Maane'' ''Thene'' ''Paeye'']], a romantic comedy opposite [[Subhashree Ganguly|Subhasree Ganguly]], which was dropped halfway. In 2016, he was seen in [[Unnodu Ka|''Unnodu'' ''Ka'']], a commercial entertainer opposite to [[Maya (actress)|Maya]] ,which performed average in the box office. Later, he was cast in horror comedy [[Nagesh Thiraiyarangam|''Nagesh'' ''Thirayarangam'']] in lead role opposite [[Ashna Zaveri]]. His next ventures to be released include [https://m.imdb.com/title/tt12868346/ ''Ellam Mele Irukkuruvan Pathuppan''], a sci fi movie with alien backdrop, then ''[[Aleka]]'', a romantic thriller and  ''[https://www.indiaglitz.com/bigg-boss-4-aari-next-movie-exciting-new-details-tamil-_amp-news-276841 Bagavan]'' mythological drama.
He has played a significant role in ''[[Nenjuku Needhi]]'' (2022), alongside [[Udhayanidhi Stalin]] directed by [[Arunraja Kamaraj]], the official remake of critically acclaimed Hindi film ''[[Article 15 (film)|Article 15]]''.<ref name=":0">{{Cite news |title=Aari Arjunan in Udhayanidhi's 'Article 15' remake |website=[[The Times of India]] |date=28 April 2021 |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/aari-arjunan-in-udhayanidhis-article-15-remake/articleshow/82286838.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210428085349/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/aari-arjunan-in-udhayanidhis-article-15-remake/articleshow/82286838.cms |archive-date=28 April 2021}}</ref> His next venture was the science fiction film  ''[[Ellaam Mela Irukuravan Paathuppan]]'' (2023).<ref>{{Cite news |title=Bigg Boss Tamil 5 title winner Aari Arujunan’s ‘Ellaam Mela Irukuravan Paathuppan’ set for its direct Television premiere
|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/tv/news/tamil/bigg-boss-tamil-5-title-winner-aari-arujunans-ellaam-mela-irukuravan-paathuppan-set-for-its-direct-digital-premiere/articleshow/98859889.cms |access-date=2023-03-21 |work=The Times of India}}</ref>  


In January 2021, he emerged as the title winner in the reality show [[Bigg Boss Tamil 4]].<ref>{{Cite web|last=admin|title=Everything about Aari Arjuna Big Boss 4 - CelebWoods.com|url=https://www.celebwoods.com/big-boss-aari-arjuna-family-biography/|access-date=2021-03-02|language=en}}</ref>'''
Aari Arjunan seen as the host in the reality show ''[[Vaa Thamizha Vaa]]''.<ref>{{Cite news |title='Vaa Thamizha Vaa season 3' to premiere soon; Aari Arjunan to be seen as the host|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/tv/news/tamil/vaa-thamizha-vaa-season-3-to-premiere-soon-aari-arjunan-to-be-seen-as-the-host/articleshow/109105880.cms |access-date=2024-04-07 |work=The Times of India}}</ref> He has played in the legal drama series ''[[Good Wife (TV series)|Good Wife]]''.<ref>{{Cite news |title=Good Wife Series Review: An entertaining legal drama that deserves more breathing room|url=https://www.cinemaexpress.com/tamil/review/2025/Jul/06/good-wife-series-review-an-entertaining-legal-drama-that-deserves-more-breathing-room |access-date=2025-07-06 |work=Cinema Express}}</ref> Aari Arjunan plays the protagonist in the psychological thriller, ''[[Fourth Floor (film)|Fourth Floor]]'' (2026).<ref>{{Cite news |title=Aari Arujunan's horror film Fourth Floor gets a release date|url=https://www.cinemaexpress.com/tamil/news/2026/Feb/01/aari-arujunans-horror-film-fourth-floor-gets-a-release-date |access-date=2026-02-01 |work=Cinema Express}}</ref>


==Personal life==
==Personal life==
He married Nathiya (Sri Lankan) - UK citizen and HR Manager [[Chennai]] on 18 November 2015 and the reception was held on 19 November 2015 in [[Taj Connemara]].{{Citation needed|date=January 2021}} The couple has one child named Riya.  
Aari was born in [[Palani, Tamil Nadu]]. He married Nathiya, a UK-based HR professional of Sri Lankan origin, on 18 November 2015 and the couple has two children; a girl named Riya (b. 2016) and a son, Ranatheeran (b. 2023).


He is also a body sculptor and fitness coach, who has mentored actors [[Cheran (director)|Cheran]], [[Ameer (director)|Ameer]], [[M. Sasikumar|Sasikumar]], [[R. Parthiban|Parthiban]], [[Jiiva]], [[Aadhi Pinisetty]], etc.
He was a fitness coach before becoming actor.<ref>{{Cite news|title=Bigg Boss Tamil 4 contestant Aari Arjuna: From fitness to philanthropy, everything you need to know about this celebrity fitness trainer-turned-actor|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/tv/news/tamil/bigg-boss-tamil-4-contestant-aari-arjuna-from-fitness-to-philanthropy-everything-you-need-to-know-about-this-celebrity-fitness-trainer-turned-actor/articleshow/78473212.cms|work=The Times of India|date=2020-10-04|access-date=2026-01-30}}</ref>


As a social activist, he has supported Tamil culture, language and agriculture. In 2018, he started a '{{Lang|ta|தமிழ் கையொப்பம்}}' (Tamil Signature) movement where he wanted all the Tamil people to sign documents in Tamil script. He holds the ''[[Guinness Book of World Records]]'' for most signatures on a whiteboard. He also holds the ''Guinness World Record'' for planting approximately 30,000 seedlings with 20,000 participants, in a 15 acre land, in collaboration with [[Sathyabama University]]. In 2017 he actively participated in Jallikattu protests held in Marina beach, Chennai.<ref>{{Cite web|last=|title=Aari Arjuna Biography, Wife, Family, Big Boss 4|url=https://www.celebwoods.com/big-boss-aari-arujunan/|access-date=2020-12-31|website=CelebWoods.com|language=en}}</ref>{{unreliable source?|date=January 2021}}
As a social activist, he has supported Tamil culture, language and agriculture. In 2018, he started a '{{Lang|ta|தமிழ் கையொப்பம்}}' (Tamil Signature) movement where he wanted all the Tamil people to sign documents in Tamil script. He holds the ''[[Guinness Book of World Records]]'' for most signatures on a whiteboard. He also holds the ''Guinness World Record'' for planting approximately 30,000 seedlings with 20,000 participants, in a 15-acre land, in collaboration with [[Sathyabama University]]. In 2017, he actively participated in [[Jallikattu]] protests held in Marina beach, Chennai.


==Filmography==
==Filmography==
===Film===
{| class="wikitable sortable"  
{| class="wikitable sortable"  
|+ Film performances
|+ Film performances
Line 42: Line 45:
! Year !! Title !! Role !! class="unsortable" | Notes  
! Year !! Title !! Role !! class="unsortable" | Notes  
|-
|-
| 2005 || ''[[Aadum Koothu]]'' || Muthu|| The Best Regional Language National Award
| 2005 || ''[[Alaiyadikkuthu]]'' || Brindha's husband || credited as Akhil Kumar
|-
| 2006 || ''[[Aadum Koothu]]'' || Muthu||credited as Akhil Kumar
|-
|-
| 2010 || ''[[Rettaisuzhi]]'' || Murthy ||  
| 2010 || ''[[Rettaisuzhi]]'' || Murthy ||  
Line 48: Line 53:
| 2012 || ''[[Maalai Pozhudhin Mayakathilaey]]'' || Ajay ||  
| 2012 || ''[[Maalai Pozhudhin Mayakathilaey]]'' || Ajay ||  
|-
|-
| 2014 || ''[[Nedunchaalai]]'' || Murugan ||Best Actor{{snd}}Film Fans Association 62nd Annual Award & V4 Awards
| 2014 || ''[[Nedunchaalai]]'' || Murugan ||
|-
|-
| rowspan="2" | 2015 || ''[[Dharani (film)|Dharani]]'' || Shekar ||  
| rowspan="2" | 2015 || ''[[Dharani (film)|Dharani]]'' || Shekar ||  
|-
|-
| ''[[Maya (2015 Tamil film)|Maya]]'' || Vasanth/Arjun ||  
| ''[[Maya (2015 Tamil film)|Maya]]'' || Vasanth / Arjun ||
|-
|-
| 2016 || ''[[Unnodu Ka]]'' || Siva ||  
| 2016 || ''[[Unnodu Ka]]'' || Siva ||  
|-
|-
| 2017 || ''[[Mupparimanam]]'' || Himself || Cameo appearance  
| 2017 || ''[[Mupparimanam]]'' || Himself || Special  appearance in a Song "Let's Go Party"
|-
|-
| 2018 || ''[[Nagesh Thiraiyarangam]]'' || Nagesh ||  
| 2018 || ''[[Nagesh Thiraiyarangam]]'' || Nagesh ||  
|-
|-
|2018
| rowspan="1" |2022 ||''[[Nenjuku Needhi]]'' || Kumaran ||
|''Mouna Valai''
|TBA
|Unreleased
|-
|-
|2021
|2023 || ''[[Ellaam Mela Irukuravan Paathuppan]]''|| Ragu || Direct Television premier on Colors Tamil
|Style="background:#FFFFCC;"|''Ellam Mele Irukkuruvan Pathuppan'' {{Dagger}}
|{{TBA}}
|Filming
|-
|-
| 2021 ||style="background:#FFFFCC;"| ''[[Aleka (film)|Aleka]]'' {{Dagger|alt=Films that have not yet been released}} || Joseph Vijay || Filming<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/entertainment/tamil/2019/jan/17/aaris-next-titled-aleka-1926063.html |title=Aari’s next titled Aleka |last=Aiyappan |first=Ashameera |date=17 January 2019 |work=[[The New Indian Express]] |quote=The crew is currently shooting in a single schedule in Chennai, with a couple of songs being planned abroad.}}</ref>
| rowspan="1"|2024 || ''[[Thiru.Manickam]]'' || Himself || Cameo appearance
|-
|-
|2021
| rowspan="1"|2026 ||''[[Fourth Floor (film)|Fourth Floor]]'' || Dheeran ||
|style="background:#FFFFCC;"|''Bagavan'' {{Dagger|alt=Films that have not yet been released}}
|{{TBA}}
|Filming
|}
|}


 
=== Television ===
{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Television performances
|+ Television performances
Line 84: Line 80:
! Year !! Title !! Role !! Channel !! class="unsortable" | Notes
! Year !! Title !! Role !! Channel !! class="unsortable" | Notes
|-
|-
| 2020–2021|| '' [[Bigg Boss (Tamil season 4)|Bigg Boss Tamil Season 4]]''|| Contestant || rowspan="2" | ''[[Star Vijay]]'' || Winner
|2017
|''Manadhaal Inaivom Maatrathai Varaverppom - Zee Tamil Brand Film''
|Aari As Himself
|[[Zee Tamil]]
|Co-starring [[Jyothika]], directed By [[Sudha Kongara]] Brand Shorts For [[Zee Tamil]]<ref>[https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/tv/news/tamil/jyotika-is-zee-tamil-brand-ambassador/articleshow/61101251.cms Jyotika is Zee Tamil brand ambassador]. Times of India (16 October 2017). Retrieved on 14 August 2018.</ref><ref>[https://brandequity.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/media/actor-jyothika-to-endorse-zee-tamil/61100497 Actor Jyothika to endorse Zee Tamil, Marketing & Advertising News, ET BrandEquity]. Brandequity.economictimes.indiatimes.com (16 October 2017). Retrieved on 14 August 2018.</ref>
|-
|2019
|''Vanakkam Tamizha''
|Guest
|[[Sun TV (India)|Sun TV]]
|
|-
| 2020–2021|| '' [[Bigg Boss (Tamil season 4)|Bigg Boss Tamil Season 4]]''|| Contestant || rowspan="4" | [[Star Vijay|STAR Vijay]] ||Winner
|-
|-
|2021
| rowspan="3" |2021
|[[Bharathi Kannamma (2019 TV series)|Bharathi Kannamma]]
|''Bigg Boss Season 4 Kondattam''
|Guest
|Guest
|To declare winner of Super Kudumbam
|Celebration of Bigg Boss Season 4
|-
|''[[Bharathi Kannamma (2019 TV series)|Bharathi Kannamma]]''  ''&'' ''[[Raja Rani (Tamil TV series)|Raja Rani Season 2]] Maha Sangamam''
|Himself
|Special Appearance
|-
|''BB Jodigal''
| rowspan="2" |Guest
|Grand Launch
|-
|2022
|''Namma Vettu Kalyanam''
|[[Star Vijay Music|STAR Vijay Music]]
|Couple Show;
Along With Nathiya
|-
|2024
|''[[Cheran’s Journey]]''
|S. Pranav
|[[SonyLIV]]
|streaming web series
|-
|-
|2024–present
|''[[Vaa Thamizha Vaa|Vaa Thamizha Vaa season 3]]''
|Host
|[[Kalaignar TV]]
|Reality debate show<ref>{{Cite news |date=2024-04-07 |title='Vaa Thamizha Vaa season 3' to premiere soon; Aari Arjunan to be seen as the host |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/tv/news/tamil/vaa-thamizha-vaa-season-3-to-premiere-soon-aari-arjunan-to-be-seen-as-the-host/articleshow/109105880.cms |access-date=2024-11-11 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref>
|-
|2025
|''[[Good Wife (TV series)|Good Wife]]''
|Hari Deepak
|[[JioHotstar]]
|Streaming web series
|}
|}


Line 100: Line 139:
|2021
|2021
| ''[[Bigg Boss (Tamil season 4)|Bigg Boss Tamil 4]]''
| ''[[Bigg Boss (Tamil season 4)|Bigg Boss Tamil 4]]''
|Title winner
|Title Winner
|  
| He became the ''Title winner'' of the Reality Show <ref>{{Cite web|date=2021-01-24|title=From Aari Arjuna getting movie offers to Velmurugan being honored by Tamil Nadu government: Here's how Bigg Boss Tamil 4 contestants are riding on their popularity|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/tv/news/tamil/from-aari-arjuna-getting-movie-offers-to-velmurugan-being-honored-by-tamil-nadu-government-heres-how-bigg-boss-tamil-4-contestants-are-riding-on-their-popularity/photostory/80420441.cms|access-date=2022-01-20|website=The Times of India|language=en}}</ref>
|-
|2018 || '' FETNA'' || Guinness World Record || His Signature Campaign along with FETNA in America
|-
|-
|2017 || ''Transplanting Seedlings'' || Guinness World Record || Transplanting Seedlings with 3000 students from Sathyabhama University  
|2017 || ''Transplanting Seedlings'' || Guinness World Record || Transplanting Seedlings with 3000 students from Sathyabhama University  
|-
|-
|2017 || ''Youth Icon'' ||Trikona Awards{{snd}}2017 || For exemplary work for betterment of society and motivating youth and following the footsteps
|2017 || ''Youth Icon Award'' || Trikona Awards || For exemplary work for the betterment of society and motivating Youth
|-
|-
|2017
|2016 || ''Youth Icon Award'' || Take Care India || Association with DR.APJ - Abdul Kalam International Foundation
|''Best Ambassador Pair & The Charming Dyad Award''
|[https://youtube.com/unozPfKX1gY Annual Thomas Edison Advertisement Awards]
|Shared with [[Ritu Varma]] for Amazon Pongal Advertisement
|-
|-
|2016 || ''Take Care India'' ||Youth Icon Awards{{snd}}2016 || For flood work{{snd}}12/01/2016{{snd}}Take Care India in Association with DR. A P J Abdulkalam International Foundation
|2015 || ''Best Actor'' || V4 Award || Film Nedunchaalai
|-
|-
| 2015 ||''Best Actor''  
|2014 || ''Best Actor'' || Films Fans Association 62nd Annual Award || Film - Nedunchaalai
 
|V4 Awards{{snd}}2014 ||[[Nedunchaalai]]
|-
|-
| 2014 || ''Best Actor''
|62nd Annual Film Fans Association Awards ||[[Nedunchaalai]]
|}
|}


==References==
==References==
{{Reflist}}
{{Reflist}}
==External links==
* {{IMDb name|12100203}}
{{s-start}}
{{succession box |
  before= [[Mugen Rao]]|
  title= [[Bigg Boss Tamil]] Winner |
  years= (Series 4) 2020-2021 |
  after= [[Raju Jeyamohan]]
}}
{{s-end}}


{{authority control}}
{{authority control}}


{{DEFAULTSORT:Aari}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Aari Arujunan}}
[[Category:21st-century Indian male actors]]
[[Category:21st-century Indian male actors]]
[[Category:Living people]]
[[Category:Living people]]
Line 134: Line 179:
[[Category:1986 births]]
[[Category:1986 births]]
[[Category:People from Dindigul district]]
[[Category:People from Dindigul district]]
[[Category:Bigg Boss Tamil contestants]]
[[Category:Bigg Boss (Tamil TV series) winners]]

Latest revision as of 01:20, 21 March 2026


Aari Arujunan
Aari Arujunan at an NGO event
Born
Palani, Dindigul District, Tamil Nadu, India
OccupationActor, fitness coach
Years active2005–present
Spouse(s)
Nathiya
(
m. 2015)
Children2

Aari Arujunan is an Indian actor who has appeared in Tamil language films. He made his lead debut in Rettaisuzhi (2010) produced by director Shankar, before having a breakthrough performance in Nedunchaalai (2014) and starring in the supernatural thriller Maya.[1] In 2021, he emerged as the winner of the reality television show Bigg Boss 4.[2]

Career[edit | edit source]

Aari, before entering films, had background in theatre featuring in productions by Magic Lantern, Theatre Nisha and Inland Theatres.[3][4] He appeared in a minor role in Alaiyadikkuthu (2005) and was later cast in the role of Muthu in Aadum Koothu (2006).[5] He worked for T. V. Chandran's Aadum Koothu (2005).[6]

Aari made his lead debut in Rettaisuzhi (2010), produced by director Shankar.[7] In October 2011, it was announced that Aari would feature in Maalai Pozhudhin Mayakathilaey and would star alongside winner of Miss South India 2010, Shubha Phutela. Aari mentioned that it was "really challenging to play an ordinary guy", as he had to consciously keep his emotions to a minimum at all times.[8] Aari portrayed the lead role in N. Krishna's third venture, a romantic road trip film titled Nedunchaalai (2014), a period film set in the 1980, which took two years to complete.[9]The film opened to positive reviews.[10][11] His following venture, the comedy Kadai Enn 6, remains unreleased.[12][13] Another venture Dharani directed by newcomer Guhan Sambandham, released in 2015, which did not perform well.[14] In the same year, he played a pivotal role in Maya, a supernatural thriller alongside Nayanthara.[15][16] It was a huge success at the box office and was critically acclaimed.[17] In 2016, he was seen in Unnodu Ka, which performed average reviews.[18] Later, he was cast in horror comedy Nagesh Thiraiyarangam in lead role opposite Ashna Zaveri.[19]

In January 2021, he emerged as the title winner in the reality show Bigg Boss Tamil 4.[20]

He has played a significant role in Nenjuku Needhi (2022), alongside Udhayanidhi Stalin directed by Arunraja Kamaraj, the official remake of critically acclaimed Hindi film Article 15.[21] His next venture was the science fiction film Ellaam Mela Irukuravan Paathuppan (2023).[22]

Aari Arjunan seen as the host in the reality show Vaa Thamizha Vaa.[23] He has played in the legal drama series Good Wife.[24] Aari Arjunan plays the protagonist in the psychological thriller, Fourth Floor (2026).[25]

Personal life[edit | edit source]

Aari was born in Palani, Tamil Nadu. He married Nathiya, a UK-based HR professional of Sri Lankan origin, on 18 November 2015 and the couple has two children; a girl named Riya (b. 2016) and a son, Ranatheeran (b. 2023).

He was a fitness coach before becoming actor.[26]

As a social activist, he has supported Tamil culture, language and agriculture. In 2018, he started a 'தமிழ் கையொப்பம்' (Tamil Signature) movement where he wanted all the Tamil people to sign documents in Tamil script. He holds the Guinness Book of World Records for most signatures on a whiteboard. He also holds the Guinness World Record for planting approximately 30,000 seedlings with 20,000 participants, in a 15-acre land, in collaboration with Sathyabama University. In 2017, he actively participated in Jallikattu protests held in Marina beach, Chennai.

Filmography[edit | edit source]

Film[edit | edit source]

Film performances
Year Title Role Notes
2005 Alaiyadikkuthu Brindha's husband credited as Akhil Kumar
2006 Aadum Koothu Muthu credited as Akhil Kumar
2010 Rettaisuzhi Murthy
2012 Maalai Pozhudhin Mayakathilaey Ajay
2014 Nedunchaalai Murugan
2015 Dharani Shekar
Maya Vasanth / Arjun
2016 Unnodu Ka Siva
2017 Mupparimanam Himself Special appearance in a Song "Let's Go Party"
2018 Nagesh Thiraiyarangam Nagesh
2022 Nenjuku Needhi Kumaran
2023 Ellaam Mela Irukuravan Paathuppan Ragu Direct Television premier on Colors Tamil
2024 Thiru.Manickam Himself Cameo appearance
2026 Fourth Floor Dheeran

Television[edit | edit source]

Television performances
Year Title Role Channel Notes
2017 Manadhaal Inaivom Maatrathai Varaverppom - Zee Tamil Brand Film Aari As Himself Zee Tamil Co-starring Jyothika, directed By Sudha Kongara Brand Shorts For Zee Tamil[27][28]
2019 Vanakkam Tamizha Guest Sun TV
2020–2021 Bigg Boss Tamil Season 4 Contestant STAR Vijay Winner
2021 Bigg Boss Season 4 Kondattam Guest Celebration of Bigg Boss Season 4
Bharathi Kannamma & Raja Rani Season 2 Maha Sangamam Himself Special Appearance
BB Jodigal Guest Grand Launch
2022 Namma Vettu Kalyanam STAR Vijay Music Couple Show;

Along With Nathiya

2024 Cheran’s Journey S. Pranav SonyLIV streaming web series
2024–present Vaa Thamizha Vaa season 3 Host Kalaignar TV Reality debate show[29]
2025 Good Wife Hari Deepak JioHotstar Streaming web series

Awards[edit | edit source]

Year Cateogary Awards Notes
2021 Bigg Boss Tamil 4 Title Winner He became the Title winner of the Reality Show [30]
2018 FETNA Guinness World Record His Signature Campaign along with FETNA in America
2017 Transplanting Seedlings Guinness World Record Transplanting Seedlings with 3000 students from Sathyabhama University
2017 Youth Icon Award Trikona Awards For exemplary work for the betterment of society and motivating Youth
2016 Youth Icon Award Take Care India Association with DR.APJ - Abdul Kalam International Foundation
2015 Best Actor V4 Award Film Nedunchaalai
2014 Best Actor Films Fans Association 62nd Annual Award Film - Nedunchaalai

References[edit | edit source]

  1. ↑ "Aari Arujunan". moviebuff.
  2. ↑ "Bigg Boss Tamil 4 winner Aari Arjuna: From being a Guinness record holder to the most nominated contestant in the BB house, all you need to know about the actor". The Times of India. Retrieved 18 January 2021.
  3. ↑ "Challenging roles". The Hindu. 2 January 2011. Archived from the original on 26 April 2011.
  4. ↑ "Aari's acting dreams". The New Indian Express. Archived from the original on 26 April 2015.
  5. ↑ "Taking to the highway". The Hindu. 20 April 2014.
  6. ↑ "Aadum Koothu". Imdb.
  7. ↑ "On the highway of fame". The Hindu. Retrieved 21 May 2016.
  8. ↑ "Playing a simple person the toughest job: Aari". The Times of India. 15 January 2017.
  9. ↑ "Aari Interview".
  10. ↑ "Review : Nedunchalai". Sify. Archived from the original on 28 March 2014.
  11. ↑ Baradwaj Rangan (29 March 2014). "Nedunchalai: Road rage". The Hindu.
  12. ↑ "Variety-Seeker Aari Gets Laughter Break". The New Indian Express. Archived from the original on 15 October 2014.
  13. ↑ "'Kadai Enn 6' about the mindset of Chennai youngsters". The Times of India. Retrieved 16 January 2017.
  14. ↑ "Dharani". The Times of India. Retrieved 30 January 2015.
  15. ↑ "Nayanthara's love for horror films helped director Ashwin Saravanan make 'Maya'". DNA india. Retrieved 17 September 2015.
  16. ↑ "Review: Maya is a truly haunting experience". Rediff. Retrieved 18 September 2015.
  17. ↑ "CHENNAI BOX OFFICE". Behindwoods. Retrieved 1 November 2015.
  18. ↑ "Unnodu Ka". The Times of India. Retrieved 13 May 2016.
  19. ↑ "Nagesh Thiraiarangam Review: A horror film indeed". Cinema Express. Retrieved 16 February 2018.
  20. ↑ admin. "Everything about Aari Arjuna Big Boss 4 - CelebWoods.com". Retrieved 2 March 2021.
  21. ↑ "Aari Arjunan in Udhayanidhi's 'Article 15' remake". The Times of India. 28 April 2021. Archived from the original on 28 April 2021.
  22. ↑ "Bigg Boss Tamil 5 title winner Aari Arujunan's 'Ellaam Mela Irukuravan Paathuppan' set for its direct Television premiere". The Times of India. Retrieved 21 March 2023.
  23. ↑ "'Vaa Thamizha Vaa season 3' to premiere soon; Aari Arjunan to be seen as the host". The Times of India. Retrieved 7 April 2024.
  24. ↑ "Good Wife Series Review: An entertaining legal drama that deserves more breathing room". Cinema Express. Retrieved 6 July 2025.
  25. ↑ "Aari Arujunan's horror film Fourth Floor gets a release date". Cinema Express. Retrieved 1 February 2026.
  26. ↑ "Bigg Boss Tamil 4 contestant Aari Arjuna: From fitness to philanthropy, everything you need to know about this celebrity fitness trainer-turned-actor". The Times of India. 4 October 2020. Retrieved 30 January 2026.
  27. ↑ Jyotika is Zee Tamil brand ambassador. Times of India (16 October 2017). Retrieved on 14 August 2018.
  28. ↑ Actor Jyothika to endorse Zee Tamil, Marketing & Advertising News, ET BrandEquity. Brandequity.economictimes.indiatimes.com (16 October 2017). Retrieved on 14 August 2018.
  29. ↑ "'Vaa Thamizha Vaa season 3' to premiere soon; Aari Arjunan to be seen as the host". The Times of India. 7 April 2024. ISSN 0971-8257. Retrieved 11 November 2024.
  30. ↑ "From Aari Arjuna getting movie offers to Velmurugan being honored by Tamil Nadu government: Here's how Bigg Boss Tamil 4 contestants are riding on their popularity". The Times of India. 24 January 2021. Retrieved 20 January 2022.

External links[edit | edit source]

Preceded by
Mugen Rao 		Bigg Boss Tamil Winner
(Series 4) 2020-2021 		Succeeded by
Raju Jeyamohan
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