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{{short description|Indian actor (born 1960)}}
{{short description|Indian actor and film producer (born 1960)}}
{{Family name hatnote|Daggubati|lang=Telugu}}
{{Family name hatnote|Daggubati|lang=Telugu}}
{{Use Indian English|date=February 2016}}
{{Use Indian English|date=February 2016}}
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{{Infobox person
{{Infobox person
| name              = Venkatesh
| name              = Venkatesh
| image              = Daggubati Venkatesh (cropped).jpg
| image              = Venkatesh Daggubati at ANR Awards.jpg
| caption            = Venkatesh at the opening ceremony of the 2013 [[Celebrity Cricket League]] season
| caption            = Venkatesh in 2024
| birth_name       = Daggubati Venkatesh
| landscape          =
| birth_name         = Daggubati Venkatesh
| other_names        = Venky
| other_names        = Venky
| birth_date        = {{birth date and age|1960|12|13|df=yes}}<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/regional-movies/on-victory-venkatesh-s-birthday-eve-his-next-project-with-trivrikram-srinivas-announced/story-940hHikvcU0OOrOLjf3fzH.html|title=On Victory Venkatesh's birthday eve, his next project with Trivrikram Srinivas announced|date=12 December 2017|website=Hindustan Times}}</ref>
| birth_date        = {{birth date and age|1960|12|13|df=yes}}<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/regional-movies/on-victory-venkatesh-s-birthday-eve-his-next-project-with-trivrikram-srinivas-announced/story-940hHikvcU0OOrOLjf3fzH.html|title=On Victory Venkatesh's birthday eve, his next project with Trivrikram Srinivas announced|date=12 December 2017|website=Hindustan Times|access-date=28 May 2020|archive-date=9 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210709181947/https://www.hindustantimes.com/regional-movies/on-victory-venkatesh-s-birthday-eve-his-next-project-with-trivrikram-srinivas-announced/story-940hHikvcU0OOrOLjf3fzH.html|url-status=live}}</ref>
| birth_place        = [[Madras]] (present-day Chennai), [[Tamil Nadu]], India
| birth_place        = [[Madras]] (present-day Chennai), [[Tamil Nadu]], India
| alma mater        = [[Loyola College, Chennai]]<br />[[Monterey Institute of International Studies]] (MBA)
| alma mater        = [[Loyola College, Chennai]] ([[BCom]])<br />[[Monterey Institute of International Studies]] ([[MBA]])
| occupation        = Actor
| occupation        = [[Actor]] <br /> [[Film producer]]
| years_active      = 1986{{ndash}}present
| years_active      = 1971{{ndash}}present
| works              = [[Venkatesh filmography|Full list]]
| spouse            = {{marriage|Neeraja|1985}}
| spouse            = {{marriage|Neeraja|1985}}
| children          = 4
| children          = 4
Line 20: Line 22:
| family            = see [[Daggubati–Akkineni family]]
| family            = see [[Daggubati–Akkineni family]]
}}
}}
'''Daggubati Venkatesh''' (born 13 December 1960), also known as '''Victory Venkatesh''', is an Indian actor known for his work predominantly in [[Telugu cinema]], and a few [[Hindi]] language films.<ref name=":2">{{Cite web|date=14 August 2020|title=వెంక‌టేశ్ 'విక్ట‌రీ'కి 34 ఏళ్లు|url=https://www.sakshi.com/telugu-news/movies/victory-venkatesh-turns-34-years-tollywood-film-industry-1308480|access-date=23 August 2020|website=Sakshi|language=te}}</ref> Early in his career, Venkatesh starred in box-office hits<ref>{{Cite web|last=Movies|first=iQlik|title=Bobbili Raja Telugu Movie Review Venkatesh Divya Bharathi Vani|url=https://www.iqlikmovies.com/movies/legendmovie/2014/04/08/Bobbili-Raja/665|access-date=20 June 2020|website=iQlikmovies|language=en}}</ref><ref name=":3">{{Cite web|title=చంటి to వెంకీమామ.. వెంకటేష్ బెస్ట్ బాక్స్ ఆఫీస్ కలెక్షన్స్|url=https://telugu.asianetnews.com/gallery/entertainment-news/venkatesh-daggubati-best-box-office-hits-q615p7|access-date=23 August 2020|website=Asianet News Network Pvt Ltd|language=te}}</ref> such as the romance ''[[Prema (1989 film)|Prema]]'' (1989), the action drama ''[[Bobbili Raja]]'' (1990), and the action adventure ''[[Kshana Kshanam]]'' (1991) which featured at the [[Fribourg International Film Festival|Fribourg Festival]] and went on to gather a [[cult following]].<ref>{{Cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=rF8ABAAAQBAJ&q=kshana+kshanam+encyclopedia+of+indian+cinema&pg=PA1994-IA196 |title=Encyclopedia of Indian Cinema |last1=Rajadhyaksha |first1=Ashish |last2=Willemen |first2=Paul |date=10 July 2014 |publisher=Routledge |isbn=978-1-135-94325-7 |via=Google Books}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/magazine/up-front/story/20120528-edouard-waintrop-on-the-new-indian-cinema-758464-2012-05-18 |title=Cannes critic on RGV's filmography at Fribourg|publisher=Indiatoday.in |date= |accessdate=2023-01-21}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=30 June 2020|title=From 'HIT' to 'Kshana Kshanam', 11 Telugu thrillers you can watch online|url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/hit-kshana-kshanam-11-telugu-thrillers-you-can-watch-online-127666|website=The News Minute}}</ref>  
'''Daggubati Venkatesh''' (born 13 December 1960) is an [[Indian actor]] and [[film producer]] known for his work predominantly in [[Telugu cinema]].<ref name=":2">{{Cite web|date=14 August 2020|title=వెంక‌టేశ్ 'విక్ట‌రీ'కి 34 ఏళ్లు|url=https://www.sakshi.com/telugu-news/movies/victory-venkatesh-turns-34-years-tollywood-film-industry-1308480|access-date=23 August 2020|website=Sakshi|language=te|archive-date=17 April 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210417192207/https://www.sakshi.com/telugu-news/movies/victory-venkatesh-turns-34-years-tollywood-film-industry-1308480|url-status=live}}</ref> Venkatesh has a prolific career spanning over 37 years and is known for portraying a variety of characters. He has received many accolades including six [[Filmfare Awards South|Filmfare Awards]] and five [[Nandi Award for Best Actor|Nandi Awards]].<ref name=":4">{{Cite news|title=Victory Venkatesh completes 34 years in Tollywood – Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/victory-venkatesh-completes-34-years-in-tollywood/articleshow/77529502.cms|access-date=23 August 2020|website=The Times of India|language=en|archive-date=3 January 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210103012340/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/victory-venkatesh-completes-34-years-in-tollywood/articleshow/77529502.cms|url-status=live}}</ref>


In a career spanning 37 years, Venkatesh received acclaim for his performances as a painter in ''[[Swarnakamalam]]'' (1988) which featured in the Indian panorama section of the [[12th International Film Festival of India|12th IFFI]],<ref>{{cite web|url=https://dff.gov.in/images/Documents/136_IPCatalogue1988.pdf|title=Indian Panorama for 12th IFFI Festival|publisher=}}</ref> the [[Asia Pacific Film Festival]] and the [[Ann Arbor Film Festival]];<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.deccanchronicle.com/lifestyle/viral-and-trending/020517/dance-without-frontiers-k-viswanath-director-who-aims-to-revive-classical-arts.html|title=Dance without frontiers: K Viswanath – Director who aims to revive classical arts|date=2 May 2017|publisher=}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|author=30 Jun 2011 - Ranjana Dave |url=http://archive.asianage.com/dance/meaning-movement-323|title=The meaning in movement |publisher=The Asian Age |date=2011-06-30 |accessdate=2012-09-04}}</ref><ref name="auto1">{{cite news|url=http://www.thehindu.com/features/friday-review/sharon-lowen-an-envoy-of-indian-culture/article8649957.ece|title=Sharon Lowen, an envoy of Indian culture|first=Ranee|last=Kumar|website=[[The Hindu]]|date=26 May 2016 |publisher=}}</ref> a coolie in ''[[Coolie No. 1 (1991 film)|Coolie No. 1]]'' (1991), an eccentric cop in ''[[Surya IPS]]'' (1991) and ''[[Gharshana]]'' (2004), an autistic villager in the melodrama ''[[Chanti (1992 film)|Chanti]]'' (1992),<ref name=":3" /> a journalist in the social drama ''[[Ganesh (1998 film)|Ganesh]]'' (1998), an attorney in ''[[Sathruvu]]'' (1991) and ''[[Dharma Chakram]]'' (1996), a farmer in ''[[Narappa]]'' (2021), in the romantic dramas ''[[Preminchukundam Raa]]'' (1997), ''[[Premante Idera]]'' (1998), ''[[Raja (1999 Indian film)|Raja]]'' (1999), ''[[Kalisundam Raa]]'' (2000), ''[[Nuvvu Naaku Nachav]]'' (2001), ''[[Vasantam]]'' (2003), ''[[Malliswari (2004 film)|Malliswari]]'' (2004), and ''[[Aadavari Matalaku Arthale Verule]]'' (2007),  and in the crime thrillers ''[[Drushyam]]'' (2014); and ''[[Drushyam 2]]'' (2021). He also starred in the Hindi language ''[[Anari (1993 film)|Anari]]'' (1993), ''[[Taqdeerwala]]'' (1995), and ''[[Rana Naidu]]'' (2023).<ref>{{Cite web|date=13 December 2019|title=Happy birthday Venkatesh; this legendary actor made his Hindi film debut with 'Anari' – OrissaPOST|url=https://www.orissapost.com/happy-birthday-venkatesh-this-legendary-actor-made-his-hindi-film-debut-with-anari/|access-date=23 August 2020|website=Orissa Post}}</ref>  
Venkatesh made his debut in 1986 with the commercially successful ''[[Kaliyuga Pandavulu]]''. He achieved stardom with box-office hits<ref>{{Cite web|last=Movies|first=iQlik|title=Bobbili Raja Telugu Movie Review Venkatesh Divya Bharathi Vani|url=https://www.iqlikmovies.com/movies/legendmovie/2014/04/08/Bobbili-Raja/665|access-date=20 June 2020|website=iQlikmovies|language=en|archive-date=22 June 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200622123801/https://www.iqlikmovies.com/movies/legendmovie/2014/04/08/Bobbili-Raja/665|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=":3">{{Cite web|title=చంటి to వెంకీమామ.. వెంకటేష్ బెస్ట్ బాక్స్ ఆఫీస్ కలెక్షన్స్|url=https://telugu.asianetnews.com/gallery/entertainment-news/venkatesh-daggubati-best-box-office-hits-q615p7|access-date=23 August 2020|website=Asianet News Network Pvt Ltd|language=te|archive-date=30 April 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210430200118/https://telugu.asianetnews.com/gallery/entertainment-news/venkatesh-daggubati-best-box-office-hits-q615p7|url-status=live}}</ref> such as ''[[Srinivasa Kalyanam (1987 film)|Srinivasa Kalyanam]]'' (1987), ''[[Brahma Puthrudu]]'' (1988), ''[[Prema (1989 film)|Prema]]'' (1989), ''[[Dhruva Nakshatram (1989 film)|Dhruva Nakshatram]]'' (1989), ''[[Bobbili Raja]]'' (1990), and ''[[Kshana Kshanam]]'' (1991), the latter of which featured at the [[Fribourg International Film Festival|Fribourg Festival]] and went on to gather a [[cult following]].<ref>{{Cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=rF8ABAAAQBAJ&q=kshana+kshanam+encyclopedia+of+indian+cinema&pg=PA1994-IA196 |title=Encyclopedia of Indian Cinema |last1=Rajadhyaksha |first1=Ashish |last2=Willemen |first2=Paul |date=10 July 2014 |publisher=Routledge |isbn=978-1-135-94325-7 |via=Google Books}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/magazine/up-front/story/20120528-edouard-waintrop-on-the-new-indian-cinema-758464-2012-05-18 |title=Cannes critic on RGV's filmography at Fribourg |publisher=Indiatoday.in |date= 18 May 2012|accessdate=2023-01-21 |archive-date=21 January 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230121072144/https://www.indiatoday.in/magazine/up-front/story/20120528-edouard-waintrop-on-the-new-indian-cinema-758464-2012-05-18 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=30 June 2020|title=From 'HIT' to 'Kshana Kshanam', 11 Telugu thrillers you can watch online|url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/hit-kshana-kshanam-11-telugu-thrillers-you-can-watch-online-127666|website=The News Minute}}</ref>


Venkatesh received five state [[Nandi Award for Best Actor|Nandi Awards for Best Actor]],<ref name=":4">{{Cite news|title=Victory Venkatesh completes 34 years in Tollywood – Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/victory-venkatesh-completes-34-years-in-tollywood/articleshow/77529502.cms|access-date=23 August 2020|website=The Times of India|language=en}}</ref> and six [[Filmfare Awards South]] in various categories. Venkatesh co-owns [[Suresh Productions]];<ref>{{Cite web|title=SURESH PRODUCTIONS PVT.LTD. - Company, directors and contact details {{!}} Zauba Corp|url=https://www.zaubacorp.com/company/SURESH-PRODUCTIONS-PVT-LTD-/U92111TG1983PTC004292|access-date=20 June 2020|website=www.zaubacorp.com}}</ref> one of the largest film production companies in [[India]], under which he acted in several films.<ref>{{Cite web|date=4 January 2008|title=D Rama Naidu enters Guinness book|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/regional-movies/d-rama-naidu-enters-guinness-book/story-yY5OHzItOT7QMo79rXuyZL.html|access-date=20 June 2020|website=Hindustan Times|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=Telugu production house Suresh Productions completes 50 years|url=https://www.rediff.com/movies/report/telugu-production-house-suresh-productions-completes-50-years-south/20140609.htm|access-date=20 June 2020|website=Rediff|language=en}}</ref> He is also the mentor of the ''Telugu Warriors'', representing Tollywood in the [[Celebrity Cricket League]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.ccl.in/team/telugu-warriors#:~:text=The%20Telugu%20Warriors%20is%20a,an%20exciting%20match%20of%20cricket.. |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151222194047/http://www.ccl.in/team/telugu-warriors |archive-date=22 December 2015 |title=CCL {{!}} Celebrity Cricket League {{!}} CCL Official Website {{!}} CCL6}}</ref>
Venkatesh received further acclaim for his notable performances as a painter in ''[[Swarnakamalam]]'' (1988), which featured in the Indian panorama section of the [[12th International Film Festival of India|12th IFFI]],<ref>{{cite web|url=https://dff.gov.in/images/Documents/136_IPCatalogue1988.pdf|title=Indian Panorama for 12th IFFI Festival|publisher=|access-date=18 February 2023|archive-date=18 February 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230218040431/https://dff.gov.in/images/Documents/136_IPCatalogue1988.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref> an attorney in both ''[[Sathruvu]]'' (1991) and ''[[Dharma Chakram]]'' (1996),  a coolie in ''[[Coolie No. 1 (1991 film)|Coolie No. 1]]'' (1991), an eccentric cop in both ''[[Surya IPS]]'' (1991) and ''[[Gharshana]]'' (2004), an autistic villager in ''[[Chanti (1992 film)|Chanti]]'' (1992),<ref name=":3" /> in the romantic dramas: ''[[Pavitra Bandham]]'' (1996), ''[[Preminchukundam Raa]]'' (1997), ''[[Premante Idera]]'' (1998), ''[[Raja (1999 Indian film)|Raja]]'' (1999), ''[[Kalisundam Raa]]'' (2000), ''[[Nuvvu Naaku Nachav]]'' (2001), ''[[Vasantam]]'' (2003), ''[[Malliswari (2004 film)|Malliswari]]'' (2004), ''[[Aadavari Matalaku Arthale Verule]]'' (2007), and ''[[Bodyguard (2012 film)|Bodyguard]]'' (2012), in the family dramas: ''[[Suryavamsam (1998 film)|Suryavamsam]]'' (1998), ''[[Sankranti (film)|Sankranti]]'' (2005) and ''[[Seethamma Vakitlo Sirimalle Chettu]]'' (2013),  a journalist in ''[[Ganesh (1998 film)|Ganesh]]'' (1998), in the action dramas: ''[[Jayam Manadera]]'' (2000), ''[[Lakshmi (2006 film)|Lakshmi]]'' (2006), ''[[Tulasi (2007 film)|Tulasi]]'' (2007) and ''[[Venky Mama]]'' (2021), in the comedies: ''[[Chintakayala Ravi]]'' (2008), ''[[Namo Venkatesa]]'' (2010), ''[[F2: Fun and Frustration|F2]]'' (2019), ''[[F3 (film)|F3]]'' (2022), and ''[[Sankranthiki Vasthunam]]'' (2025), in the crime thrillers ''[[Eenadu (2009 film)|Eenaadu]]'' (2009), ''[[Drushyam]]'' (2014) and ''[[Drushyam 2]]'' (2021), an atheist in ''[[Gopala Gopala (2015 film)|Gopala Gopala]]'' (2015), a boxing coach in ''[[Guru (2017 film)|Guru]]'' (2017), and a farmer in ''[[Narappa]]'' (2021).
 
Venkatesh also starred in Hindi language works such as ''[[Anari (1993 film)|Anari]]'' (1993), ''[[Taqdeerwala]]'' (1995), and ''[[Rana Naidu]]'' (2023).<ref>{{Cite web|date=13 December 2019|title=Happy birthday Venkatesh; this legendary actor made his Hindi film debut with 'Anari' – OrissaPOST|url=https://www.orissapost.com/happy-birthday-venkatesh-this-legendary-actor-made-his-hindi-film-debut-with-anari/|access-date=23 August 2020|website=Orissa Post}}</ref> In addition to acting, he co-owns [[Suresh Productions]], one of the largest film production companies in India, under which he acted in several films.<ref>{{Cite web|date=4 January 2008|title=D Rama Naidu enters Guinness book|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/regional-movies/d-rama-naidu-enters-guinness-book/story-yY5OHzItOT7QMo79rXuyZL.html|access-date=20 June 2020|website=Hindustan Times|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=Telugu production house Suresh Productions completes 50 years|url=https://www.rediff.com/movies/report/telugu-production-house-suresh-productions-completes-50-years-south/20140609.htm|access-date=20 June 2020|website=Rediff|language=en}}</ref> He is also the mentor of the ''Telugu Warriors'', representing [[Telugu cinema|Tollywood]] in the [[Celebrity Cricket League]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.ccl.in/team/telugu-warriors#:~:text=The%20Telugu%20Warriors%20is%20a,an%20exciting%20match%20of%20cricket.. |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151222194047/http://www.ccl.in/team/telugu-warriors |archive-date=22 December 2015 |title=CCL {{!}} Celebrity Cricket League {{!}} CCL Official Website {{!}} CCL6}}</ref>


== Early life ==
== Early life ==
Venkatesh was born on 13 December 1960 in a [[Telugu people|Telugu]] family to film producer and former [[Member of Parliament]], [[D. Ramanaidu]] and Rajeshwari in Madras (present-day Chennai), India. He has an elder brother [[D. Suresh Babu|Suresh Babu]], who runs [[Suresh Productions]], and a younger sister Lakshmi.<ref name="toi">{{Cite news|title=Happy Birthday Venkatesh Daggubati: Take a look at life and times of the ace actor – Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/happy-birthday-venkatesh-daggubati-take-a-look-at-life-and-times-of-the-ace-actor/articleshow/72489522.cms|access-date=14 March 2021|website=The Times of India|language=en}}</ref>
Venkatesh was born on 13 December 1960 in a [[Telugu people|Telugu]] family to film producer and former [[Member of Parliament]], [[D. Ramanaidu]] and Rajeswari in Madras (present-day Chennai), India. He has an elder brother [[D. Suresh Babu|Suresh Babu]], who runs [[Suresh Productions]], and a younger sister Lakshmi.<ref name="toi">{{Cite news|title=Happy Birthday Venkatesh Daggubati: Take a look at life and times of the ace actor – Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/happy-birthday-venkatesh-daggubati-take-a-look-at-life-and-times-of-the-ace-actor/articleshow/72489522.cms|access-date=14 March 2021|website=The Times of India|language=en|archive-date=29 March 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200329044820/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/happy-birthday-venkatesh-daggubati-take-a-look-at-life-and-times-of-the-ace-actor/articleshow/72489522.cms|url-status=live}}</ref>


Venkatesh did his schooling in [[Don Bosco Matriculation Higher Secondary School|Don Bosco, Egmore]],<ref>{{cite web | url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/don-bosco-alumni-regale-students-with-school-tales/articleshow/5428971.cms | title=Don Bosco alumni regale students with school tales | work=[[The Times of India]] | date=10 January 2010 | accessdate=14 March 2021}}</ref> [[Chennai]] and graduated in commerce from [[Loyola College, Chennai]].<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.deccanchronicle.com/131213/entertainment-tollywood/gallery/birthday-exclusive-daggubati-venkatesh | title=Birthday Exclusive: Daggubati Venkatesh | publisher=Deccan Chronicle | date=13 December 2013 | accessdate=14 March 2021}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/happy-birthday-victory-venkatesh-unseen-snaps-of-the-versatile-star/photostory/67062201.cms?picid=67062257 | title=Happy Birthday Victory Venkatesh: Unseen Snaps of the Versatile Star | work=[[The Times of India]] | date=13 December 2018 | accessdate=14 March 2021}}</ref> He got his [[MBA]] from the [[Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey]], US.<ref name="toi" /> After his return to India, he wanted to get into film production but instead became an actor.<ref>[http://www.thehindu.com/today's-paper/tp-features/tp-cinemaplus/looking-for-a-new-zone/article4661814.ece Looking for a new zone]. The Hindu (28 April 2013). Retrieved on 2016-01-31.</ref>
Venkatesh did his schooling in [[Don Bosco Matriculation Higher Secondary School|Don Bosco, Egmore]],<ref>{{cite web | url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/don-bosco-alumni-regale-students-with-school-tales/articleshow/5428971.cms | title=Don Bosco alumni regale students with school tales | work=[[The Times of India]] | date=10 January 2010 | accessdate=14 March 2021 | archive-date=14 August 2020 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200814124249/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/Don-Bosco-alumni-regale-students-with-school-tales/articleshow/5428971.cms | url-status=live }}</ref> [[Chennai]] and graduated in commerce from [[Loyola College, Chennai]].<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.deccanchronicle.com/131213/entertainment-tollywood/gallery/birthday-exclusive-daggubati-venkatesh | title=Birthday Exclusive: Daggubati Venkatesh | publisher=Deccan Chronicle | date=13 December 2013 | accessdate=14 March 2021 | archive-date=18 April 2023 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230418172752/https://www.deccanchronicle.com/131213/entertainment-tollywood/gallery/birthday-exclusive-daggubati-venkatesh | url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/happy-birthday-victory-venkatesh-unseen-snaps-of-the-versatile-star/photostory/67062201.cms?picid=67062257 | title=Happy Birthday Victory Venkatesh: Unseen Snaps of the Versatile Star | work=[[The Times of India]] | date=13 December 2018 | accessdate=14 March 2021}}</ref> He got his [[MBA]] from the [[Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey]], USA.<ref name="toi" /> After his return to India, he wanted to get into film production but instead became an actor.<ref>[http://www.thehindu.com/today's-paper/tp-features/tp-cinemaplus/looking-for-a-new-zone/article4661814.ece Looking for a new zone]. The Hindu (28 April 2013). Retrieved on 2016-01-31.</ref>


== Career ==
== Career ==
{{further|Venkatesh filmography}}
{{further|Venkatesh filmography}}


=== 1986–1989: Debut and early career ===
=== 1971–1995: Debut and early career ===
Venkatesh first appeared as a child actor in the 1971 film ''[[Prema Nagar]]''. His first film as a full-fledged lead was [[K. Raghavendra Rao]]-directed ''[[Kaliyuga Pandavulu]]'' (1986), alongside [[Khushbu Sundar]] which was a debut for both of them. The film won him a [[Nandi Special Jury Award]].<ref name=":2" />
Venkatesh first appeared as a child actor in the 1971 film ''[[Prema Nagar]]''. His first film as a full-fledged lead was [[K. Raghavendra Rao]]-directed ''[[Kaliyuga Pandavulu]]'' (1986), alongside [[Khushbu Sundar]] which was a debut for both of them. The film won him a [[Nandi Special Jury Award]].<ref name=":2" />


=== 1996–2012: Critical and Commercial success ===
''[[Swarnakamalam]]'' (1988) which came in the direction of [[K. Viswanath]] happens to be the classic of that era. The film also won [[Nandi Awards]] for the second time in two years. ''[[Prema (1989 film)|Prema]]'', which came in the year 1989, achieved a cult status. ''[[Dhruva Nakshatram (1989 film)|Dhruva Nakshatram]]'', which was released in the same year, was also a mass hit at the box office. ''[[Bobbili Raja]]'' broke the all-time records at the Telugu box office in 1990. Films like ''[[Coolie No. 1 (1991 film)|Coolie]]'' (1991) and ''[[Kshana Kshanam]]'' (1991) catapulted him to stardom on par with the then superstars of the Telugu cinema — Megastar [[Chiranjeevi]], [[Nandamuri Balakrishna]] and [[Akkineni Nagarjuna]]. ''[[Chanti (1992 film)|Chanti]]'' (1992), a remake of the Tamil flick ''[[Chinna Thambi]]'' (1991), was another box-office hit. It earned him massive box office collections. Venkatesh, as an innocent servant named Chanti, was raved about by audiences. ''Chanti'' was later remade in Hindi as ''[[Anari (1993 film)|Anari]]'' (1993), only to receive more praise from Hindi audiences. Immediately, he showed a different variation in ''[[Chinarayudu]]'' (1993).Venkatesh's films have hardly ever been embroiled in controversy, but there was an exception once. His movie ''[[Kondapalli Raja]]'', which released in 1993, stirred up a controversy before its release. ''Kondapalli Raja'' was the second Telugu remake of [[Rajinikanth]]’s Tamil film ''[[Annaamalai]]'' (1992).<ref>{{Cite news |title=From Venkatesh to 'Victory' Venkatesh, here's how the Telugu star earned his title |url=https://thesouthfirst.com/tamilnadu/madras-high-court-hears-petition-regarding-censoring-of-tamil-film-jana-nayagan/ |access-date=2023-12-13 |work=The South First}}</ref> He later worked on films like ''[[Abbayigaru]]'' (1993), ''[[Super Police]]'' (1994), ''[[Muddula Priyudu]]'' (1994), ''[[Pokiri Raja]]'' (1995) and ''[[Taqdeerwala]]'' (1995). Venkatesh was so successful at the prime of his career that his name was tagged with ‘Victory’ to be rechristened as Victory Venkatesh.<ref>{{Cite news |title=Happy birthday Venkatesh: 5 iconic movies of Victory Venkatesh from the 90s you can't miss |url=https://mirchi.in/stories/movies/happy-birthday-venkatesh-5-iconic-movies-of-victory-venkatesh-from-the-90s-you-cant-miss/96176321|access-date=2022-12-13 |work=Mirchi}}</ref>
In 1996, he portrayed an honest lawyer in ''[[Dharma Chakram]]'', which won him both the [[Nandi Award]] and [[Filmfare Award South]].<ref name=":4" /><ref name=":0">{{Cite news|title=Venkatesh Daggubati Awards: List of awards and nominations received by Venkatesh Daggubati {{!}} Times of India Entertainment|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/topic/Venkatesh-Daggubati/awards|access-date=20 June 2020|newspaper=The Times of India}}</ref> Later that year, he played a husband struggling between two wives in the [[E. V. V. Satyanarayana]] directed hit [[comedy drama]] ''[[Intlo Illalu Vantintlo Priyuralu]]''.<ref name=":5">{{Cite news|title=Happy Birthday Venkatesh: These 6 Feel-Good Movies of the Victory Hero will leave a big smile on your face – Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/happy-birthday-venkatesh-these-6-feel-good-movies-of-the-victory-hero-will-leave-a-big-smile-on-your-face/articleshow/72493231.cms|access-date=23 August 2020|website=The Times of India|language=en}}</ref> In [[Ganesh (1998 film)|''Ganesh'']] (1998), he played a person fighting the ills of the Indian public healthcare system. The following year, he starred in the [[Romance film|romantic action]] film ''[[Preminchukundam Raa]]''. The film, which was one of the first portrayals of [[Political faction|factionalism]] in [[Rayalaseema]] region, was a big commercial success.<ref>{{Cite web|date=8 May 2020|title=23 ఏళ్లు కంప్లీట్ చేసుకున్న వెంకటేష్ 'ప్రేమించుకుందాం.. రా'..|url=https://telugu.news18.com/news/movies/venkatesh-super-hit-preminchukundam-raa-movie-completed-23-years-ta-512288.html|access-date=23 August 2020|website=News18 Telugu}}</ref> His 1999 [[drama film]] [[Raja (1999 Indian film)|''Raja'']], where he plays a small time thief who is reformed by his love was also well received by the audience.<ref name=":5" /> Following this, he established himself as one of top actors in Telugu cinema.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Dundoo|first=Sangeetha Devi|date=14 February 2017|title=Time to reinvent|language=en-IN|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/Time-to-reinvent/article17301535.ece|access-date=23 August 2020|issn=0971-751X}}</ref>
 
=== 1996–2012: Critical and commercial success ===
[[File:Venkatesh hundred hearts ccl.jpg|thumb|left|Venkatesh at CCl]]
In 1996, he portrayed an honest lawyer in ''[[Dharma Chakram]]'', which won him both the [[Nandi Award]] and [[Filmfare Award South]].<ref name=":4" /><ref name=":0">{{Cite news|title=Venkatesh Daggubati Awards: List of awards and nominations received by Venkatesh Daggubati {{!}} Times of India Entertainment|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/topic/Venkatesh-Daggubati/awards|access-date=20 June 2020|newspaper=The Times of India}}</ref> Later that year, he played a husband struggling between two wives in the [[E. V. V. Satyanarayana]] directed hit [[comedy drama]] ''[[Intlo Illalu Vantintlo Priyuralu]]''.<ref name=":5">{{Cite news|title=Happy Birthday Venkatesh: These 6 Feel-Good Movies of the Victory Hero will leave a big smile on your face – Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/happy-birthday-venkatesh-these-6-feel-good-movies-of-the-victory-hero-will-leave-a-big-smile-on-your-face/articleshow/72493231.cms|access-date=23 August 2020|website=The Times of India|language=en|archive-date=13 December 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191213092725/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/happy-birthday-venkatesh-these-6-feel-good-movies-of-the-victory-hero-will-leave-a-big-smile-on-your-face/articleshow/72493231.cms|url-status=live}}</ref> The following year, he starred in the [[Romance film|romantic action]] film ''[[Preminchukundam Raa]]''. The film, which was one of the first portrayals of [[Political faction|factionalism]] in [[Rayalaseema]] region, was a big commercial success.<ref>{{Cite web|date=8 May 2020|title=23 ఏళ్లు కంప్లీట్ చేసుకున్న వెంకటేష్ 'ప్రేమించుకుందాం.. రా'..|url=https://telugu.news18.com/news/movies/venkatesh-super-hit-preminchukundam-raa-movie-completed-23-years-ta-512288.html|access-date=23 August 2020|website=News18 Telugu|archive-date=13 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200813181004/https://telugu.news18.com/news/movies/venkatesh-super-hit-preminchukundam-raa-movie-completed-23-years-ta-512288.html|url-status=live}}</ref> In ''[[Ganesh (1998 film)|Ganesh]]'' (1998), he played a person fighting the ills of the Indian public healthcare system. His 1999 [[drama film]] [[Raja (1999 Indian film)|''Raja'']], where he plays a small time thief who is reformed by his love was also well received by the audience.<ref name=":5" /> Following this, he established himself as one of top actors in Telugu cinema.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Dundoo|first=Sangeetha Devi|date=14 February 2017|title=Time to reinvent|language=en-IN|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/Time-to-reinvent/article17301535.ece|access-date=23 August 2020|issn=0971-751X|archive-date=24 August 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210824133007/https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/Time-to-reinvent/article17301535.ece|url-status=live}}</ref>


[[File:Venkatesh hundred hearts ccl.jpg|thumb|upright=0.9]]
In 2001, Venkatesh starred in the [[romantic comedy]]  ''[[Nuvvu Naaku Nachav]]'' which was a critical and commercial success.<ref>{{Cite news|title=A timeless classic comedy Nuvvu Naku Nachav clocks 18 years – Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/a-timeless-classic-comedy-nuvvu-naku-nachav-clocks-18-years/articleshow/71011593.cms|access-date=23 August 2020|website=The Times of India|language=en|archive-date=30 September 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190930071952/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/a-timeless-classic-comedy-nuvvu-naku-nachav-clocks-18-years/articleshow/71011593.cms|url-status=live}}</ref> The success continued with [[Malliswari (2004 film)|''Malliswari'']] (2004), his second collaboration with director [[K. Vijaya Bhaskar]] after ''Nuvvu Naaku Nachav''.<ref name=":5" /> In 2007, he starred in two films, ''[[Aadavari Matalaku Arthale Verule]]'' and [[Tulasi (2007 film)|''Tulasi'']], both of which grossed over {{Indian Rupee|30 [[crore]]}} at the [[box office]].<ref name=":3" /> In the following years, Venkatesh appeared in several films, including ''[[Chintakayala Ravi]]'' (2008), ''[[Namo Venkatesa]]'' (2010) and [[Bodyguard (2012 film)|''Bodyguard'']] (2012).<ref>{{Cite web|title=Review: Chintakayala Ravi entertains|url=https://www.rediff.com/movies/2008/oct/03ssc.htm|access-date=23 August 2020|website=www.rediff.com}}</ref><ref>{{Citation|title=Om Namo Venkatesaya Review {2.5/5}: This movie is strictly for those who love the genre, the filmmaker and the combo|newspaper=The Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movie-reviews/om-namo-venkatesaya/movie-review/57080560.cms|access-date=23 August 2020}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|author=Indo-Asian News Service|date=16 January 2012|title=Bodyguard Review|url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/Entertainment/RegionalFlavours/Telugu-review-Bodyguard/Article1-798032.aspx|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120119234149/http://www.hindustantimes.com/Entertainment/RegionalFlavours/Telugu-review-Bodyguard/Article1-798032.aspx|archive-date=19 January 2012|work=Hindustan Times}}</ref>
In 2001, Venkatesh starred in the [[romantic comedy]]  ''[[Nuvvu Naaku Nachav]]'' which was a critical and commercial success.<ref>{{Cite news|title=A timeless classic comedy Nuvvu Naku Nachav clocks 18 years – Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/a-timeless-classic-comedy-nuvvu-naku-nachav-clocks-18-years/articleshow/71011593.cms|access-date=23 August 2020|website=The Times of India|language=en}}</ref> The success continued with [[Malliswari (2004 film)|''Malliswari'']] (2004), his second collaboration with director [[K. Vijaya Bhaskar]] after ''Nuvvu Naaku Nachav''.<ref name=":5" /> In 2007, he starred in two films, ''[[Aadavari Matalaku Arthale Verule]]'' and [[Tulasi (film)|''Tulasi'']], both of which grossed over {{Indian Rupee|30 [[crore]]}} at the [[box office]].<ref name=":3" /> In the following years, Venkatesh appeared in several films, including ''[[Chintakayala Ravi]]'' (2008), ''[[Namo Venkatesa]]'' (2010) and [[Bodyguard (2012 film)|''Bodyguard'']] (2012).<ref>{{Cite web|title=Review: Chintakayala Ravi entertains|url=https://www.rediff.com/movies/2008/oct/03ssc.htm|access-date=23 August 2020|website=www.rediff.com}}</ref><ref>{{Citation|title=Om Namo Venkatesaya Review {2.5/5}: This movie is strictly for those who love the genre, the filmmaker and the combo|newspaper=The Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movie-reviews/om-namo-venkatesaya/movie-review/57080560.cms|access-date=23 August 2020}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|author=Indo-Asian News Service|date=16 January 2012|title=Bodyguard Review|url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/Entertainment/RegionalFlavours/Telugu-review-Bodyguard/Article1-798032.aspx|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120119234149/http://www.hindustantimes.com/Entertainment/RegionalFlavours/Telugu-review-Bodyguard/Article1-798032.aspx|archive-date=19 January 2012|work=Hindustan Times}}</ref>


=== 2013–present: Multi-starrers ===
=== 2013–present: Multi-starrers and experimental roles===
[[File:Venkatesh CCLeague.jpg|thumb|Venkatesh snapped at CCL.]]
[[File:Venkatesh CCLeague.jpg|thumb|Venkatesh snapped at CCL.]]
In 2013, Venkatesh co-starred alongside [[Mahesh Babu]] in the critically acclaimed [[drama film|drama]] ''[[Seethamma Vakitlo Sirimalle Chettu]]''.<ref>{{cite web|author=Shekhar|date=12 January 2013|title=Seethamma Vakitlo Sirimalle Chettu (SVSC) bags rave reviews|url=http://www.filmibeat.com/telugu/news/2013/seethamma-vakitlo-sirimalle-chettu-svsc-reviews-ratings-102544.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150726053352/http://www.filmibeat.com/telugu/news/2013/seethamma-vakitlo-sirimalle-chettu-svsc-reviews-ratings-102544.html|archive-date=26 July 2015|access-date=26 July 2015|publisher=Oneindia Entertainment}}</ref><ref name="H and M">{{cite web|last=Kavirayani|first=Suresh|date=29 December 2013|title=2013: The biggest hits & misses|url=http://www.deccanchronicle.com/131229/entertainment-tollywood/article/2013-biggest-hits-misses|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150819093622/http://www.deccanchronicle.com/131229/entertainment-tollywood/article/2013-biggest-hits-misses|archive-date=19 August 2015|access-date=19 August 2015|work=[[Deccan Chronicle]]}}</ref> The film was the one of the first Telugu major [[Ensemble cast|multi-starrer]] films after many years. Subsequently, Venkatesh went on to feature in other multi-starrers such as ''[[Masala (2013 film)|Masala]]'' (2013)'', [[Gopala Gopala (2015 film)|Gopala Gopala]]'' (2015) and ''[[F2: Fun and Frustration]]'' (2019).<ref>{{Cite web|last=Uddagiri|first=AuthorNikisha|title=It's raining multi-starrers in Telugu industry|url=https://telanganatoday.com/raining-multi-starrers-telugu-industry|access-date=23 August 2020|website=Telangana Today|language=en-US}}</ref> ''F2'' grossed over {{INR|127 crore}} and ended up as one of the [[List of Telugu films of 2019|highest-grossing Telugu film]] of that year.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Hooli|first=Shekhar H.|date=22 December 2019|title=Tollywood Box office report – 2019: Highest grossing Telugu movies of the year|url=https://www.ibtimes.co.in/tollywood-box-office-report-2019-highest-grossing-telugu-movies-year-810648|access-date=23 August 2020|website=International Business Times, India Edition|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.filmibeat.com/telugu/movies/f3.html#story | title=F3 Movie (2022): Release Date, Cast, Review, Trailer, Story, Budget, Box Office Collection }}</ref>
Venkatesh is known for his multi-starrers in Telugu cinema. He has balanced lead roles with supporting characters, with both senior actors and upcoming actors.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Films that prove Venkatesh is a specialist in modern multi-starrers {{!}} Filmfare.com |url=https://www.filmfare.com/news/south/films-that-prove-venkatesh-is-a-specialist-in-modern-multi-starrers-80614.html |access-date=2026-01-04 |website=www.filmfare.com |language=en}}</ref> In 2013, Venkatesh co-starred alongside [[Mahesh Babu]] in the critically acclaimed [[drama film|drama]] ''[[Seethamma Vakitlo Sirimalle Chettu]]''.<ref>{{cite web|author=Shekhar|date=12 January 2013|title=Seethamma Vakitlo Sirimalle Chettu (SVSC) bags rave reviews|url=http://www.filmibeat.com/telugu/news/2013/seethamma-vakitlo-sirimalle-chettu-svsc-reviews-ratings-102544.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150726053352/http://www.filmibeat.com/telugu/news/2013/seethamma-vakitlo-sirimalle-chettu-svsc-reviews-ratings-102544.html|archive-date=26 July 2015|access-date=26 July 2015|publisher=Oneindia Entertainment}}</ref><ref name="H and M">{{cite web|last=Kavirayani|first=Suresh|date=29 December 2013|title=2013: The biggest hits & misses|url=https://www.deccanchronicle.com/131229/entertainment-tollywood/article/2013-biggest-hits-misses|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150819093622/http://www.deccanchronicle.com/131229/entertainment-tollywood/article/2013-biggest-hits-misses|archive-date=19 August 2015|access-date=19 August 2015|url-status=live|work=[[Deccan Chronicle]]}}</ref> The film was one of the first Telugu major [[Ensemble cast|multi-starrer]] films after many years. Subsequently, Venkatesh went on to feature in other multi-starrers such as ''[[Masala (2013 film)|Masala]]'' (2013)'', [[Gopala Gopala (2015 film)|Gopala Gopala]]'' (2015) and ''[[F2: Fun and Frustration]]'' (2019).<ref>{{Cite web|last=Uddagiri|first=AuthorNikisha|title=It's raining multi-starrers in Telugu industry|url=https://telanganatoday.com/raining-multi-starrers-telugu-industry|access-date=23 August 2020|website=Telangana Today|language=en-US|archive-date=3 June 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200603051805/https://telanganatoday.com/raining-multi-starrers-telugu-industry|url-status=live}}</ref> ''F2'' grossed over {{INR|127 crore}} and ended up as one of the [[List of Telugu films of 2019|highest-grossing Telugu films of 2019]].<ref>{{Cite web|last=Hooli|first=Shekhar H.|date=22 December 2019|title=Tollywood Box office report – 2019: Highest grossing Telugu movies of the year|url=https://www.ibtimes.co.in/tollywood-box-office-report-2019-highest-grossing-telugu-movies-year-810648|access-date=23 August 2020|website=International Business Times, India Edition|language=en|archive-date=19 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200819160212/https://www.ibtimes.co.in/tollywood-box-office-report-2019-highest-grossing-telugu-movies-year-810648|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.filmibeat.com/telugu/movies/f3.html#story | title=F3 Movie (2022): Release Date, Cast, Review, Trailer, Story, Budget, Box Office Collection }}</ref>
 
Venkatesh's performance in ''[[Drushyam]]'' (2014) received several accolades from the critics.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Seshagiri|first=Sangeetha|date=10 July 2014|title='Drushyam' Movie Review Roundup: Worth Watching|url=https://www.ibtimes.co.in/drushyam-movie-review-roundup-worth-watching-604123|access-date=23 August 2020|website=International Business Times, India Edition|language=en|archive-date=25 May 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210525023159/https://www.ibtimes.co.in/drushyam-movie-review-roundup-worth-watching-604123|url-status=live}}</ref> He portrayed a strict boxing coach in the [[Sudha Kongara]]'s [[sports drama]] ''[[Guru (2017 film)|Guru]]'' in 2017.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Dundoo|first=Sangeetha Devi|date=31 March 2017|title=Guru: An absorbing sports drama|language=en-IN|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/reviews/guru-an-absorbing-sports-drama/article17749453.ece|access-date=23 August 2020|issn=0971-751X|archive-date=5 June 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220605094504/https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/reviews/guru-an-absorbing-sports-drama/article17749453.ece|url-status=live}}</ref>


Venkatesh's performance in ''[[Drushyam]]'' (2014) received several accolades from the critics.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Seshagiri|first=Sangeetha|date=10 July 2014|title='Drushyam' Movie Review Roundup: Worth Watching|url=https://www.ibtimes.co.in/drushyam-movie-review-roundup-worth-watching-604123|access-date=23 August 2020|website=International Business Times, India Edition|language=en}}</ref> He portrayed a strict boxing coach in the [[Sudha Kongara]]'s [[sports drama]] ''[[Guru (2017 film)|Guru]]'' in 2017.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Dundoo|first=Sangeetha Devi|date=31 March 2017|title=Guru: An absorbing sports drama|language=en-IN|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/reviews/guru-an-absorbing-sports-drama/article17749453.ece|access-date=23 August 2020|issn=0971-751X}}</ref>
Later in 2019, he starred in ''[[Venky Mama]]'', alongside his nephew [[Naga Chaitanya]]. The film was a profitable venture, grossing more than {{INR|72 crore}} worldwide.<ref>{{Cite news|title='Venky Mama' Box-Office: Venkatesh and Naga Chaitanya starrer turns into a profitable venture – Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/box-office/venky-mama-box-office-venkatesh-and-naga-chaitanya-starrer-turns-into-a-profitable-venture/articleshow/72992448.cms|access-date=23 August 2020|website=The Times of India|language=en|archive-date=14 December 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201214080825/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/box-office/venky-mama-box-office-venkatesh-and-naga-chaitanya-starrer-turns-into-a-profitable-venture/articleshow/72992448.cms|url-status=live}}</ref> In the same year, he dubbed in Telugu for the Genie in ''[[Aladdin (2019 film)|Alladin]]''. His 2021 film ''[[Narappa]]'' was released on [[Amazon Prime]], which marked his first direct-to-OTT released.<ref>{{Cite web|date=20 July 2021|title=Venkatesh on his Amazon Prime movie Narappa: 'It is the most challenging film of my career so far'|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/telugu-cinema/venkatesh-on-his-amazon-prime-movie-narappa-it-is-the-most-challenging-film-of-my-career-so-far-101626762614989.html|access-date=21 July 2021|website=Hindustan Times|language=en|archive-date=20 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210720171657/https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/telugu-cinema/venkatesh-on-his-amazon-prime-movie-narappa-it-is-the-most-challenging-film-of-my-career-so-far-101626762614989.html|url-status=live}}</ref> In 2022, the sequel to ''F2'', ''[[F3: Fun and Frustration]]'', released to a fairly positive reception from the critics and audience. In 2024, Venkatesh made his first ever pan-Indian film debut with ''[[Saindhav]]'', directed by [[Sailesh Kolanu]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Sistu |first=Suhas |date=2023-10-16 |title='Saindhav' teaser: Action-packed |url=https://www.thehansindia.com/cinema/saindhav-teaser-action-packed-830214 |access-date=2023-10-16 |website=www.thehansindia.com |language=English}}</ref>


Later in 2019, he starred in ''[[Venky Mama]]'', alongside his nephew [[Naga Chaitanya]]. The film was a profitable venture, grossing more than {{INR|72 crore}} worldwide.<ref>{{Cite news|title='Venky Mama' Box-Office: Venkatesh and Naga Chaitanya starrer turns into a profitable venture – Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/box-office/venky-mama-box-office-venkatesh-and-naga-chaitanya-starrer-turns-into-a-profitable-venture/articleshow/72992448.cms|access-date=23 August 2020|website=The Times of India|language=en}}</ref> In the same year, he dubbed in Telugu for the Genie in ''[[Aladdin (2019 film)|Alladin]]''. His 2021 film ''[[Narappa]]'' was released on [[Amazon Prime]], which marked his first direct-to-OTT released.<ref>{{Cite web|date=20 July 2021|title=Venkatesh on his Amazon Prime movie Narappa: 'It is the most challenging film of my career so far'|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/telugu-cinema/venkatesh-on-his-amazon-prime-movie-narappa-it-is-the-most-challenging-film-of-my-career-so-far-101626762614989.html|access-date=21 July 2021|website=Hindustan Times|language=en}}</ref> In 2022, the sequel to F2, [[F3: Fun and Frustration]] released to a fairly positive reception from critics and audiences.
In 2025, he reunited with Anil Ravipudi and Dil Raju on the comedy, ''[[Sankranthiki Vasthunam]]'', becoming the highest-grossing film in Venkatesh' career and the highest-grossing comedy in Telugu cinema.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Mandava |first=Dvija |last2=Babu |first2=Rohan |date=2025-02-03 |title=Sankranthiki Vasthunam: A genre-defying blockbuster |url=https://www.ormaxmedia.com/insights/stories/sankranthiki-vasthunam-a-genre-defying-blockbuster.html |access-date=2026-01-04 |website=Ormax Media Pvt. Ltd. |language=en}}</ref>


== Endorsements ==
== Endorsements ==
* On 24 April 2010, he signed with [[Manappuram General Finance and Leasing Ltd]] as their [[brand ambassador]] for [[Andhra Pradesh]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.idlebrain.com/news/2000march20/venky-manappuram.html |title=Super Star Victory Venkatesh to Endorse Manappuram Brand&nbsp;– Telugu cinema news |publisher=Idlebrain.com |date=25 April 2010 |access-date=3 November 2012}}</ref>
* On 24 April 2010, he signed with [[Manappuram General Finance and Leasing Ltd]] as their [[brand ambassador]] for [[Andhra Pradesh]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.idlebrain.com/news/2000march20/venky-manappuram.html |title=Super Star Victory Venkatesh to Endorse Manappuram Brand&nbsp;– Telugu cinema news |publisher=Idlebrain.com |date=25 April 2010 |access-date=3 November 2012 |archive-date=17 July 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120717211124/http://www.idlebrain.com/news/2000march20/venky-manappuram.html |url-status=live }}</ref>
*  He opened Ramraj Cotton Company branch in Ameerpet as a brand ambassador for the company.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Hyderabad/actor-venkatesh-opens-ramraj-cotton-showroom/article8395349.ece |title=Actor Venkatesh opens Ramraj Cotton showroom |newspaper=The Hindu |publisher=thehindu.com|date=25 March 2016 |access-date=6 September 2020}}</ref>
*  He opened [[Ramraj Cotton]] Company branch in Ameerpet as a brand ambassador for the company.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Hyderabad/actor-venkatesh-opens-ramraj-cotton-showroom/article8395349.ece |title=Actor Venkatesh opens Ramraj Cotton showroom |newspaper=The Hindu |publisher=thehindu.com |date=25 March 2016 |access-date=6 September 2020 |archive-date=18 April 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230418172752/https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Hyderabad/actor-venkatesh-opens-ramraj-cotton-showroom/article8395349.ece |url-status=live }}</ref>


== Personal life ==
== Personal life ==
Venkatesh married Neeraja in 1985 and the couple have four children—three daughters and one son.<ref>{{Cite news|title=Venkatesh and Neeraja – Tollywood celebs and their less famous spouses|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/photo-features/tollywood-celebs-and-their-less-famous-spouses/Venkatesh-and-Neeraja/photostory/63726726.cms|access-date=16 May 2020|website=The Times of India}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=Venkatesh Daggubati's elder daughter Aashritha gets engaged, wedding date revealed – details inside|url=https://www.timesnownews.com/entertainment/south-gossip/article/venkatesh-daggubatis-elder-daughter-aashritha-gets-engaged-wedding-date-revealed-details-insid/361702|access-date=16 May 2020|website=www.timesnownews.com|language=en}}</ref> His eldest daughter, Aashritha, married Vinayak Reddy, the grandson of [[Surendra Reddy|R. Surender Reddy]], the chairman of Hyderabad Race Club.<ref>{{cite news|title=Aashritha Daggubati and Vinayak Reddy tie the knot in a grand wedding in Jaipur – Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/hyderabad/aashritha-daggubati-and-vinayak-reddy-tie-the-knot-in-a-grand-wedding-in-jaipur/articleshow/68549311.cms|website=The Times of India|date=25 March 2019 }}</ref> He's also the uncle of actors [[Rana Daggubati]] and [[Naga Chaitanya]].<ref>{{Cite web|last=Sharma|first=Bhavana|date=14 March 2020|title=Did you know who Naga Chaitanya's step-father and half-brother are?|url=https://www.ibtimes.co.in/did-you-know-who-naga-chaitanyas-step-father-half-brother-are-take-look-photo-815094|url-status=live|access-date=14 March 2021|website=[[IB Times]]}}</ref>
Venkatesh married Neeraja in 1985 and the couple has four children—three daughters and one son.<ref>{{Cite news|title=Venkatesh and Neeraja – Tollywood celebs and their less famous spouses|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/photo-features/tollywood-celebs-and-their-less-famous-spouses/Venkatesh-and-Neeraja/photostory/63726726.cms|access-date=16 May 2020|website=The Times of India|archive-date=11 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210711183339/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/photo-features/tollywood-celebs-and-their-less-famous-spouses/venkatesh-and-neeraja/photostory/63726726.cms|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=Venkatesh Daggubati's elder daughter Aashritha gets engaged, wedding date revealed – details inside|url=https://www.timesnownews.com/entertainment/south-gossip/article/venkatesh-daggubatis-elder-daughter-aashritha-gets-engaged-wedding-date-revealed-details-insid/361702|access-date=16 May 2020|website=www.timesnownews.com|date=7 February 2019 |language=en}}</ref> His eldest daughter, Aashritha, married Vinayak Reddy, the grandson of [[Surendra Reddy|R. Surender Reddy]], the chairman of Hyderabad Race Club.<ref>{{cite news|title=Aashritha Daggubati and Vinayak Reddy tie the knot in a grand wedding in Jaipur – Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/hyderabad/aashritha-daggubati-and-vinayak-reddy-tie-the-knot-in-a-grand-wedding-in-jaipur/articleshow/68549311.cms|website=The Times of India|date=25 March 2019|archive-date=27 March 2019|access-date=26 March 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190327105600/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/hyderabad/aashritha-daggubati-and-vinayak-reddy-tie-the-knot-in-a-grand-wedding-in-jaipur/articleshow/68549311.cms|url-status=live}}</ref> He is also the uncle of actors [[Rana Daggubati]] and [[Naga Chaitanya]].<ref>{{Cite web|last=Sharma|first=Bhavana|date=14 March 2020|title=Did you know who Naga Chaitanya's step-father and half-brother are?|url=https://www.ibtimes.co.in/did-you-know-who-naga-chaitanyas-step-father-half-brother-are-take-look-photo-815094|access-date=14 March 2021|website=[[IB Times]]|archive-date=15 March 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200315175014/https://www.ibtimes.co.in/did-you-know-who-naga-chaitanyas-step-father-half-brother-are-take-look-photo-815094|url-status=live}}</ref>


== Awards and nominations ==
== Awards and nominations ==
{| class="wikitable sortable"
{| class="wikitable solvable"
!'''Year'''
!Year
|'''Film'''
!Film
|'''Award'''
!Award
|'''Category'''
!Category
|'''Result'''
!Result
|'''{{Tool tip|Ref.|References}}'''
!{{Tool tip|Ref.|References}}
|-
|-
| rowspan="2" | 1986
| rowspan="2" | 1986
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|[[Nandi Special Jury Award|Best Male Debut (Special Jury Award)]]
|[[Nandi Special Jury Award|Best Male Debut (Special Jury Award)]]
| {{won}}
| {{won}}
|<ref name=":1">{{Cite web|title=Awards won by Venkatesh Daggubati – Telugu cinema news – idlebrain.com|url=http://www.idlebrain.com/news/2000march20/venkatesh-awards.html|access-date=14 July 2020|website=www.idlebrain.com}}</ref>
|<ref name=":1">{{Cite web|title=Awards won by Venkatesh Daggubati – Telugu cinema news – idlebrain.com|url=http://www.idlebrain.com/news/2000march20/venkatesh-awards.html|access-date=14 July 2020|website=www.idlebrain.com|archive-date=25 July 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200725212804/http://www.idlebrain.com/news/2000march20/venkatesh-awards.html|url-status=live}}</ref>
|-
|-
| rowspan="2" |[[Filmfare Awards South]]
| rowspan="2" |[[Filmfare Awards South]]
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|''[[Brahma Puthrudu]]''
|''[[Brahma Puthrudu]]''
| {{won}}
| {{won}}
|<ref>https://ia902503.us.archive.org/16/items/venkatesh-won-filmfare-award-for-best-telugu-actor-brahma-putrudu/IMG_20220518_125845.jpg {{Bare URL image|date=May 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zawdV2cfZOk| archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211107/zawdV2cfZOk| archive-date=7 November 2021 | url-status=live|title=Victory Venkatesh – Britannia Filmfare Awards 2014 – Hybiz.tv|last=HYBIZTV HD|date=3 June 2015|via=YouTube}}{{cbignore}}</ref>
|<ref>https://archive.org/details/36th-annual-filmfare-south-winners</ref><ref>[https://ia902503.us.archive.org/16/items/venkatesh-won-filmfare-award-for-best-telugu-actor-brahma-putrudu/IMG_20220518_125845.jpg Image]</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zawdV2cfZOk| archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211107/zawdV2cfZOk| archive-date=7 November 2021 | url-status=live|title=Victory Venkatesh – Britannia Filmfare Awards 2014 – Hybiz.tv|last=HYBIZTV HD|date=3 June 2015|via=YouTube}}{{cbignore}}</ref>
|-
|-
|''[[Swarna Kamalam]]''
|''[[Swarna Kamalam]]''
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| rowspan="2" | 1989
| rowspan="2" | 1989
| rowspan="2" |''[[Prema (1989 film)|Prema]]''
| rowspan="2" |''[[Prema (1989 film)|Prema]]''
| Best Actor
| [[Nandi Award for Best Actor|Best Actor]]
| {{won}}
| {{won}}
|<ref name=":1" />
|<ref name=":1" />
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| rowspan="2" |''[[Dharma Chakram]]''
| rowspan="2" |''[[Dharma Chakram]]''
|[[Nandi Award]]s
|[[Nandi Award]]s
| Best Actor
| [[Nandi Award for Best Actor|Best Actor]]
| {{won}}
| {{won}}
|<ref name=":1" />
|<ref name=":1" />
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| rowspan="3" |[[Filmfare Award for Best Actor – Telugu|Best Actor – Telugu]]
| rowspan="3" |[[Filmfare Award for Best Actor – Telugu|Best Actor – Telugu]]
| {{won}}
| {{won}}
|<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.filmfare.com:80/site/october97/south3f.htm|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19991018182845/http://www.filmfare.com:80/site/october97/south3f.htm|url-status=dead|archive-date=18 October 1999|title=Filmfare – South Special|date=18 October 1999}}</ref>
|<ref>https://archive.org/details/filmfare-best-actor</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.filmfare.com/site/october97/south3f.htm|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19991018182845/http://www.filmfare.com/site/october97/south3f.htm|url-status=dead|archive-date=18 October 1999|title=Filmfare – South Special|date=18 October 1999|access-date=21 October 2020}}</ref>
|-
|-
|''[[Sahasa Veerudu Sagara Kanya]]''
|''[[Sahasa Veerudu Sagara Kanya]]''
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|-
|-
| rowspan="2" | 1998|| rowspan="2" |''[[Ganesh (1998 film)|Ganesh]]''
| rowspan="2" | 1998|| rowspan="2" |''[[Ganesh (1998 film)|Ganesh]]''
|[[Nandi Award]]s|| Best Actor|| {{won}}
|[[Nandi Award]]s|| [[Nandi Award for Best Actor|Best Actor]]|| {{won}}
|<ref name=":1" />
|<ref name=":1" />
|-
|-
| rowspan="2" |[[Filmfare Award|Filmfare Awards South]]
| rowspan="2" |[[Filmfare Award|Filmfare Awards South]]
| rowspan="2" |[[Filmfare Award for Best Actor – Telugu|Best Actor – Telugu]]||{{won}}
| rowspan="2" |[[Filmfare Award for Best Actor – Telugu|Best Actor – Telugu]]||{{won}}
|<ref>https://archive.org/download/46thFilmfareAwardsSouthWinners/46th%20Filmfare%20Awards%20south%20winners.jpg {{Bare URL image|date=March 2022}}</ref>
|<ref>[https://archive.org/download/46thFilmfareAwardsSouthWinners/46th%20Filmfare%20Awards%20south%20winners.jpg Image] archive.org</ref>
|-
|-
| 1999
| 1999
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| rowspan="2" |''[[Kalisundam Raa]]''
| rowspan="2" |''[[Kalisundam Raa]]''
| [[Nandi Award]]s
| [[Nandi Award]]s
| Best Actor
| [[Nandi Award for Best Actor|Best Actor]]
|{{won}}
|{{won}}
|<ref name=":1" />
|<ref name=":1" />
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|-
|-
|''[[Jayam Manade Raa]]''
|''[[Jayam Manade Raa]]''
|[[Filmfare Award for Best Actor – Telugu|Best Actor – Telugu]]
| rowspan="2" |[[Filmfare Award for Best Actor – Telugu|Best Actor – Telugu]]
| {{won}}
| {{won}}
|<ref name=":0" /><ref>https://ia902502.us.archive.org/32/items/venkatesh-won-filmfare-best-telugu-actor-award-for-jayam-manadera/IMG_20220518_124059.jpg {{Bare URL image|date=May 2022}}</ref>
|<ref name=":0" /><ref>[https://ia902502.us.archive.org/32/items/venkatesh-won-filmfare-best-telugu-actor-award-for-jayam-manadera/IMG_20220518_124059.jpg Image] archive.org</ref>
|-
|-
| rowspan="2" | 2005|| rowspan="2" |''[[Sankranthi (film)|Sankranthi]]''|| Best Actor|| {{nom}}
| rowspan="2" | 2005|| rowspan="2" |''[[Sankranthi (film)|Sankranthi]]''|| {{nom}}
|
|
|-
|-
|[[Santosham Film Awards]]
|[[Santosham Film Awards]]
|[[Filmfare Award for Best Actor – Telugu|Best Actor – Telugu]]|| {{won}}
|[[Santosham Best Actor Award|Best Actor]]|| {{won}}
|
|
|-
|-
| rowspan="3" | 2007|| rowspan="3" |''[[Adavari Matalaku Ardhale Verule]]''
| rowspan="3" | 2007|| rowspan="3" |''[[Adavari Matalaku Ardhale Verule]]''
|[[Nandi Award]]s|| rowspan="2" | Best Actor|| {{won}}
|[[Nandi Award]]s|| [[Nandi Award for Best Actor|Best Actor]]|| {{won}}
|
|
|-
|-
|[[Santosham Film Awards]]|| {{won}}
|[[Santosham Film Awards]]
|[[Santosham Best Actor Award|Best Actor]]|| {{won}}
|
|
|-
|-
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|-
|-
|[[T. Subbarami Reddy|TSR]] – [[TV9 (Telugu)|TV9]] National Film Awards|| Best Actor (Jury)|| {{won}}
|[[T. Subbarami Reddy|TSR]] – [[TV9 (Telugu)|TV9]] National Film Awards|| Best Actor (Jury)|| {{won}}
|<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.deccanchronicle.com/150716/entertainment-bollywood/article/tsr-tv9-award-winners-announced|title=TSR-TV9 award winners announced|publisher=[[Deccan Chronicle]]|date=16 July 2015|access-date=17 July 2015}}</ref>
|<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.deccanchronicle.com/150716/entertainment-bollywood/article/tsr-tv9-award-winners-announced|title=TSR-TV9 award winners announced|publisher=[[Deccan Chronicle]]|date=16 July 2015|access-date=17 July 2015|archive-date=5 January 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180105181252/http://www.deccanchronicle.com/150716/entertainment-bollywood/article/tsr-tv9-award-winners-announced|url-status=live}}</ref>
|-
|-
|[[South Indian International Movie Awards]]|| rowspan="2" | Best Actor|| {{nom}}
|[[South Indian International Movie Awards]]|| [[SIIMA Award for Best Actor – Telugu|Best Actor – Telugu]]|| {{nom}}
|
|
|-
|-
|2016
|2016
|[[Gopala Gopala (2015 film)|''Gopala Gopala'']]
|[[Gopala Gopala (2015 film)|''Gopala Gopala'']]
|[[T. Subbarami Reddy|TSR]] – [[TV9 (Telugu)|TV9]] National Film Awards|| {{won}}
|[[T. Subbarami Reddy|TSR]] – [[TV9 (Telugu)|TV9]] National Film Awards
|Best Actor|| {{won}}
|
|
|-
|-
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|
|
|-
|-
|[[Filmfare Critics Award for Best Actor – South|Best Actor – Critics]]
|[[Filmfare Critics Award for Best Actor – Telugu|Critics Best Actor – Telugu]]
|{{Won}}
|{{Won}}
|
|
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== External links ==
== External links ==
 
{{Commons category|Venkatesh Daggubati}}
*{{IMDb name|id=0893142|name=Venkatesh Daggubati}}
*{{IMDb name|id=0893142|name=Venkatesh Daggubati}}


{{Filmfare Award for Best Actor – Telugu}}
{{Filmfare Award for Best Actor – Telugu}}
{{Nandi Special Jury Award}}
{{Nandi Special Jury Award}}
{{Nandi Award for Best Actor}}
{{Nandi Award for Best Actor}}{{Santosham Best Actor Award}}{{Filmfare Critics Award for Best Actor – Telugu}}{{SIIMA Critics Award for Best Actor – Telugu}}{{authority control}}
 
{{authority control}}


{{DEFAULTSORT:Venkatesh}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Venkatesh}}
[[Category:Akkineni–Daggubati family|Venkatesh]]
[[Category:Living people]]
[[Category:Living people]]
[[Category:Telugu male actors]]
[[Category:Telugu male actors]]
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[[Category:Male actors from Andhra Pradesh]]
[[Category:Male actors from Andhra Pradesh]]
[[Category:1960 births]]
[[Category:1960 births]]
[[Category:South Indian International Movie Awards winners]]
[[Category:Santosham Film Awards winners]]

Latest revision as of 22:51, 25 March 2026


In this article, the surname is Daggubati.

Venkatesh
Venkatesh in 2024
Born
Daggubati Venkatesh

(1960-12-13) 13 December 1960 (age 65)[1]
Madras (present-day Chennai), Tamil Nadu, India
Other namesVenky
Alma materLoyola College, Chennai (BCom)
Monterey Institute of International Studies (MBA)
OccupationActor
Film producer
Years active1971–present
Works
Full list
Spouse(s)
Neeraja
(
m. 1985)
Children4
Parent(s)
RelativesD. Suresh Babu (brother)
Rana Daggubati (nephew)
Naga Chaitanya (nephew)
Familysee Daggubati–Akkineni family

Daggubati Venkatesh (born 13 December 1960) is an Indian actor and film producer known for his work predominantly in Telugu cinema.[2] Venkatesh has a prolific career spanning over 37 years and is known for portraying a variety of characters. He has received many accolades including six Filmfare Awards and five Nandi Awards.[3]

Venkatesh made his debut in 1986 with the commercially successful Kaliyuga Pandavulu. He achieved stardom with box-office hits[4][5] such as Srinivasa Kalyanam (1987), Brahma Puthrudu (1988), Prema (1989), Dhruva Nakshatram (1989), Bobbili Raja (1990), and Kshana Kshanam (1991), the latter of which featured at the Fribourg Festival and went on to gather a cult following.[6][7][8]

Venkatesh received further acclaim for his notable performances as a painter in Swarnakamalam (1988), which featured in the Indian panorama section of the 12th IFFI,[9] an attorney in both Sathruvu (1991) and Dharma Chakram (1996), a coolie in Coolie No. 1 (1991), an eccentric cop in both Surya IPS (1991) and Gharshana (2004), an autistic villager in Chanti (1992),[5] in the romantic dramas: Pavitra Bandham (1996), Preminchukundam Raa (1997), Premante Idera (1998), Raja (1999), Kalisundam Raa (2000), Nuvvu Naaku Nachav (2001), Vasantam (2003), Malliswari (2004), Aadavari Matalaku Arthale Verule (2007), and Bodyguard (2012), in the family dramas: Suryavamsam (1998), Sankranti (2005) and Seethamma Vakitlo Sirimalle Chettu (2013), a journalist in Ganesh (1998), in the action dramas: Jayam Manadera (2000), Lakshmi (2006), Tulasi (2007) and Venky Mama (2021), in the comedies: Chintakayala Ravi (2008), Namo Venkatesa (2010), F2 (2019), F3 (2022), and Sankranthiki Vasthunam (2025), in the crime thrillers Eenaadu (2009), Drushyam (2014) and Drushyam 2 (2021), an atheist in Gopala Gopala (2015), a boxing coach in Guru (2017), and a farmer in Narappa (2021).

Venkatesh also starred in Hindi language works such as Anari (1993), Taqdeerwala (1995), and Rana Naidu (2023).[10] In addition to acting, he co-owns Suresh Productions, one of the largest film production companies in India, under which he acted in several films.[11][12] He is also the mentor of the Telugu Warriors, representing Tollywood in the Celebrity Cricket League.[13]

Early life[edit | edit source]

Venkatesh was born on 13 December 1960 in a Telugu family to film producer and former Member of Parliament, D. Ramanaidu and Rajeswari in Madras (present-day Chennai), India. He has an elder brother Suresh Babu, who runs Suresh Productions, and a younger sister Lakshmi.[14]

Venkatesh did his schooling in Don Bosco, Egmore,[15] Chennai and graduated in commerce from Loyola College, Chennai.[16][17] He got his MBA from the Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey, USA.[14] After his return to India, he wanted to get into film production but instead became an actor.[18]

Career[edit | edit source]

Further information: Venkatesh filmography

1971–1995: Debut and early career[edit | edit source]

Venkatesh first appeared as a child actor in the 1971 film Prema Nagar. His first film as a full-fledged lead was K. Raghavendra Rao-directed Kaliyuga Pandavulu (1986), alongside Khushbu Sundar which was a debut for both of them. The film won him a Nandi Special Jury Award.[2]

Swarnakamalam (1988) which came in the direction of K. Viswanath happens to be the classic of that era. The film also won Nandi Awards for the second time in two years. Prema, which came in the year 1989, achieved a cult status. Dhruva Nakshatram, which was released in the same year, was also a mass hit at the box office. Bobbili Raja broke the all-time records at the Telugu box office in 1990. Films like Coolie (1991) and Kshana Kshanam (1991) catapulted him to stardom on par with the then superstars of the Telugu cinema — Megastar Chiranjeevi, Nandamuri Balakrishna and Akkineni Nagarjuna. Chanti (1992), a remake of the Tamil flick Chinna Thambi (1991), was another box-office hit. It earned him massive box office collections. Venkatesh, as an innocent servant named Chanti, was raved about by audiences. Chanti was later remade in Hindi as Anari (1993), only to receive more praise from Hindi audiences. Immediately, he showed a different variation in Chinarayudu (1993).Venkatesh's films have hardly ever been embroiled in controversy, but there was an exception once. His movie Kondapalli Raja, which released in 1993, stirred up a controversy before its release. Kondapalli Raja was the second Telugu remake of Rajinikanth’s Tamil film Annaamalai (1992).[19] He later worked on films like Abbayigaru (1993), Super Police (1994), Muddula Priyudu (1994), Pokiri Raja (1995) and Taqdeerwala (1995). Venkatesh was so successful at the prime of his career that his name was tagged with ‘Victory’ to be rechristened as Victory Venkatesh.[20]

1996–2012: Critical and commercial success[edit | edit source]

Venkatesh at CCl

In 1996, he portrayed an honest lawyer in Dharma Chakram, which won him both the Nandi Award and Filmfare Award South.[3][21] Later that year, he played a husband struggling between two wives in the E. V. V. Satyanarayana directed hit comedy drama Intlo Illalu Vantintlo Priyuralu.[22] The following year, he starred in the romantic action film Preminchukundam Raa. The film, which was one of the first portrayals of factionalism in Rayalaseema region, was a big commercial success.[23] In Ganesh (1998), he played a person fighting the ills of the Indian public healthcare system. His 1999 drama film Raja, where he plays a small time thief who is reformed by his love was also well received by the audience.[22] Following this, he established himself as one of top actors in Telugu cinema.[24]

In 2001, Venkatesh starred in the romantic comedy Nuvvu Naaku Nachav which was a critical and commercial success.[25] The success continued with Malliswari (2004), his second collaboration with director K. Vijaya Bhaskar after Nuvvu Naaku Nachav.[22] In 2007, he starred in two films, Aadavari Matalaku Arthale Verule and Tulasi, both of which grossed over ₹30 crore at the box office.[5] In the following years, Venkatesh appeared in several films, including Chintakayala Ravi (2008), Namo Venkatesa (2010) and Bodyguard (2012).[26][27][28]

2013–present: Multi-starrers and experimental roles[edit | edit source]

Venkatesh snapped at CCL.

Venkatesh is known for his multi-starrers in Telugu cinema. He has balanced lead roles with supporting characters, with both senior actors and upcoming actors.[29] In 2013, Venkatesh co-starred alongside Mahesh Babu in the critically acclaimed drama Seethamma Vakitlo Sirimalle Chettu.[30][31] The film was one of the first Telugu major multi-starrer films after many years. Subsequently, Venkatesh went on to feature in other multi-starrers such as Masala (2013), Gopala Gopala (2015) and F2: Fun and Frustration (2019).[32] F2 grossed over ₹127 crore and ended up as one of the highest-grossing Telugu films of 2019.[33][34]

Venkatesh's performance in Drushyam (2014) received several accolades from the critics.[35] He portrayed a strict boxing coach in the Sudha Kongara's sports drama Guru in 2017.[36]

Later in 2019, he starred in Venky Mama, alongside his nephew Naga Chaitanya. The film was a profitable venture, grossing more than ₹72 crore worldwide.[37] In the same year, he dubbed in Telugu for the Genie in Alladin. His 2021 film Narappa was released on Amazon Prime, which marked his first direct-to-OTT released.[38] In 2022, the sequel to F2, F3: Fun and Frustration, released to a fairly positive reception from the critics and audience. In 2024, Venkatesh made his first ever pan-Indian film debut with Saindhav, directed by Sailesh Kolanu.[39]

In 2025, he reunited with Anil Ravipudi and Dil Raju on the comedy, Sankranthiki Vasthunam, becoming the highest-grossing film in Venkatesh' career and the highest-grossing comedy in Telugu cinema.[40]

Endorsements[edit | edit source]

Personal life[edit | edit source]

Venkatesh married Neeraja in 1985 and the couple has four children—three daughters and one son.[43][44] His eldest daughter, Aashritha, married Vinayak Reddy, the grandson of R. Surender Reddy, the chairman of Hyderabad Race Club.[45] He is also the uncle of actors Rana Daggubati and Naga Chaitanya.[46]

Awards and nominations[edit | edit source]

Year Film Award Category Result Template:Tool tip
1986 Kaliyuga Pandavulu Nandi Awards Best Male Debut (Special Jury Award) Won [47]
Filmfare Awards South Best Actor – Telugu Nominated
1988 Brahma Puthrudu Won [48][49][50]
Swarna Kamalam Nandi Awards Special Jury Award Won [47]
1989 Prema Best Actor Won [47]
Filmfare Awards South Best Actor – Telugu Nominated
1990 Bobbili Raja Nominated
1991 Kshana Kshanam Nominated
1992 Chanti Nominated
1993 Abbaigaru Nominated
1994 Muddula Priyudu Nominated
1995 Dharma Chakram Nandi Awards Best Actor Won [47]
1996 Filmfare Awards South Best Actor – Telugu Won [51][52]
Sahasa Veerudu Sagara Kanya Nominated
1997 Preminchukundam Raa Nominated
1998 Ganesh Nandi Awards Best Actor Won [47]
Filmfare Awards South Best Actor – Telugu Won [53]
1999 Raja Nominated
2000 Kalisundam Raa Nandi Awards Best Actor Won [47]
Filmfare Awards South Special Award Won [21]
Jayam Manade Raa Best Actor – Telugu Won [21][54]
2005 Sankranthi Nominated
Santosham Film Awards Best Actor Won
2007 Adavari Matalaku Ardhale Verule Nandi Awards Best Actor Won
Santosham Film Awards Best Actor Won
Filmfare Awards South Best Actor – Telugu Nominated
2010 Eenadu Best Supporting Actor – Telugu Nominated
2014 Masala Nominated
2015 Drushyam Best Actor – Telugu Nominated
TSR – TV9 National Film Awards Best Actor (Jury) Won [55]
South Indian International Movie Awards Best Actor – Telugu Nominated
2016 Gopala Gopala TSR – TV9 National Film Awards Best Actor Won
2017 Guru Filmfare Awards South Best Actor – Telugu Nominated
Critics Best Actor – Telugu Won

References[edit | edit source]

  1. ↑ "On Victory Venkatesh's birthday eve, his next project with Trivrikram Srinivas announced". Hindustan Times. 12 December 2017. Archived from the original on 9 July 2021. Retrieved 28 May 2020.
  2. ↑ 2.0 2.1 "వెంక‌టేశ్ 'విక్ట‌రీ'కి 34 ఏళ్లు". Sakshi (in తెలుగు). 14 August 2020. Archived from the original on 17 April 2021. Retrieved 23 August 2020.
  3. ↑ 3.0 3.1 "Victory Venkatesh completes 34 years in Tollywood – Times of India". The Times of India. Archived from the original on 3 January 2021. Retrieved 23 August 2020.
  4. ↑ Movies, iQlik. "Bobbili Raja Telugu Movie Review Venkatesh Divya Bharathi Vani". iQlikmovies. Archived from the original on 22 June 2020. Retrieved 20 June 2020.
  5. ↑ 5.0 5.1 5.2 "చంటి to వెంకీమామ.. వెంకటేష్ బెస్ట్ బాక్స్ ఆఫీస్ కలెక్షన్స్". Asianet News Network Pvt Ltd (in తెలుగు). Archived from the original on 30 April 2021. Retrieved 23 August 2020.
  6. ↑ Rajadhyaksha, Ashish; Willemen, Paul (10 July 2014). Encyclopedia of Indian Cinema. Routledge. ISBN 978-1-135-94325-7 – via Google Books.
  7. ↑ "Cannes critic on RGV's filmography at Fribourg". Indiatoday.in. 18 May 2012. Archived from the original on 21 January 2023. Retrieved 21 January 2023.
  8. ↑ "From 'HIT' to 'Kshana Kshanam', 11 Telugu thrillers you can watch online". The News Minute. 30 June 2020.
  9. ↑ "Indian Panorama for 12th IFFI Festival" (PDF). Archived (PDF) from the original on 18 February 2023. Retrieved 18 February 2023.
  10. ↑ "Happy birthday Venkatesh; this legendary actor made his Hindi film debut with 'Anari' – OrissaPOST". Orissa Post. 13 December 2019. Retrieved 23 August 2020.
  11. ↑ "D Rama Naidu enters Guinness book". Hindustan Times. 4 January 2008. Retrieved 20 June 2020.
  12. ↑ "Telugu production house Suresh Productions completes 50 years". Rediff. Retrieved 20 June 2020.
  13. ↑ "CCL | Celebrity Cricket League | CCL Official Website | CCL6". Archived from the original on 22 December 2015.
  14. ↑ 14.0 14.1 "Happy Birthday Venkatesh Daggubati: Take a look at life and times of the ace actor – Times of India". The Times of India. Archived from the original on 29 March 2020. Retrieved 14 March 2021.
  15. ↑ "Don Bosco alumni regale students with school tales". The Times of India. 10 January 2010. Archived from the original on 14 August 2020. Retrieved 14 March 2021.
  16. ↑ "Birthday Exclusive: Daggubati Venkatesh". Deccan Chronicle. 13 December 2013. Archived from the original on 18 April 2023. Retrieved 14 March 2021.
  17. ↑ "Happy Birthday Victory Venkatesh: Unseen Snaps of the Versatile Star". The Times of India. 13 December 2018. Retrieved 14 March 2021.
  18. ↑ Looking for a new zone. The Hindu (28 April 2013). Retrieved on 2016-01-31.
  19. ↑ "From Venkatesh to 'Victory' Venkatesh, here's how the Telugu star earned his title". The South First. Retrieved 13 December 2023.
  20. ↑ "Happy birthday Venkatesh: 5 iconic movies of Victory Venkatesh from the 90s you can't miss". Mirchi. Retrieved 13 December 2022.
  21. ↑ 21.0 21.1 21.2 "Venkatesh Daggubati Awards: List of awards and nominations received by Venkatesh Daggubati | Times of India Entertainment". The Times of India. Retrieved 20 June 2020.
  22. ↑ 22.0 22.1 22.2 "Happy Birthday Venkatesh: These 6 Feel-Good Movies of the Victory Hero will leave a big smile on your face – Times of India". The Times of India. Archived from the original on 13 December 2019. Retrieved 23 August 2020.
  23. ↑ "23 ఏళ్లు కంప్లీట్ చేసుకున్న వెంకటేష్ 'ప్రేమించుకుందాం.. రా'." News18 Telugu. 8 May 2020. Archived from the original on 13 August 2020. Retrieved 23 August 2020.
  24. ↑ Dundoo, Sangeetha Devi (14 February 2017). "Time to reinvent". The Hindu. ISSN 0971-751X. Archived from the original on 24 August 2021. Retrieved 23 August 2020.
  25. ↑ "A timeless classic comedy Nuvvu Naku Nachav clocks 18 years – Times of India". The Times of India. Archived from the original on 30 September 2019. Retrieved 23 August 2020.
  26. ↑ "Review: Chintakayala Ravi entertains". www.rediff.com. Retrieved 23 August 2020.
  27. ↑ "Om Namo Venkatesaya Review {2.5/5}: This movie is strictly for those who love the genre, the filmmaker and the combo", The Times of India, retrieved 23 August 2020
  28. ↑ Indo-Asian News Service (16 January 2012). "Bodyguard Review". Hindustan Times. Archived from the original on 19 January 2012.
  29. ↑ "Films that prove Venkatesh is a specialist in modern multi-starrers | Filmfare.com". www.filmfare.com. Retrieved 4 January 2026.
  30. ↑ Shekhar (12 January 2013). "Seethamma Vakitlo Sirimalle Chettu (SVSC) bags rave reviews". Oneindia Entertainment. Archived from the original on 26 July 2015. Retrieved 26 July 2015.
  31. ↑ Kavirayani, Suresh (29 December 2013). "2013: The biggest hits & misses". Deccan Chronicle. Archived from the original on 19 August 2015. Retrieved 19 August 2015.
  32. ↑ Uddagiri, AuthorNikisha. "It's raining multi-starrers in Telugu industry". Telangana Today. Archived from the original on 3 June 2020. Retrieved 23 August 2020.
  33. ↑ Hooli, Shekhar H. (22 December 2019). "Tollywood Box office report – 2019: Highest grossing Telugu movies of the year". International Business Times, India Edition. Archived from the original on 19 August 2020. Retrieved 23 August 2020.
  34. ↑ "F3 Movie (2022): Release Date, Cast, Review, Trailer, Story, Budget, Box Office Collection".
  35. ↑ Seshagiri, Sangeetha (10 July 2014). "'Drushyam' Movie Review Roundup: Worth Watching". International Business Times, India Edition. Archived from the original on 25 May 2021. Retrieved 23 August 2020.
  36. ↑ Dundoo, Sangeetha Devi (31 March 2017). "Guru: An absorbing sports drama". The Hindu. ISSN 0971-751X. Archived from the original on 5 June 2022. Retrieved 23 August 2020.
  37. ↑ "'Venky Mama' Box-Office: Venkatesh and Naga Chaitanya starrer turns into a profitable venture – Times of India". The Times of India. Archived from the original on 14 December 2020. Retrieved 23 August 2020.
  38. ↑ "Venkatesh on his Amazon Prime movie Narappa: 'It is the most challenging film of my career so far'". Hindustan Times. 20 July 2021. Archived from the original on 20 July 2021. Retrieved 21 July 2021.
  39. ↑ Sistu, Suhas (16 October 2023). "'Saindhav' teaser: Action-packed". www.thehansindia.com. Retrieved 16 October 2023.
  40. ↑ Mandava, Dvija; Babu, Rohan (3 February 2025). "Sankranthiki Vasthunam: A genre-defying blockbuster". Ormax Media Pvt. Ltd. Retrieved 4 January 2026.
  41. ↑ "Super Star Victory Venkatesh to Endorse Manappuram Brand – Telugu cinema news". Idlebrain.com. 25 April 2010. Archived from the original on 17 July 2012. Retrieved 3 November 2012.
  42. ↑ "Actor Venkatesh opens Ramraj Cotton showroom". The Hindu. thehindu.com. 25 March 2016. Archived from the original on 18 April 2023. Retrieved 6 September 2020.
  43. ↑ "Venkatesh and Neeraja – Tollywood celebs and their less famous spouses". The Times of India. Archived from the original on 11 July 2021. Retrieved 16 May 2020.
  44. ↑ "Venkatesh Daggubati's elder daughter Aashritha gets engaged, wedding date revealed – details inside". www.timesnownews.com. 7 February 2019. Retrieved 16 May 2020.
  45. ↑ "Aashritha Daggubati and Vinayak Reddy tie the knot in a grand wedding in Jaipur – Times of India". The Times of India. 25 March 2019. Archived from the original on 27 March 2019. Retrieved 26 March 2019.
  46. ↑ Sharma, Bhavana (14 March 2020). "Did you know who Naga Chaitanya's step-father and half-brother are?". IB Times. Archived from the original on 15 March 2020. Retrieved 14 March 2021.
  47. ↑ 47.0 47.1 47.2 47.3 47.4 47.5 "Awards won by Venkatesh Daggubati – Telugu cinema news – idlebrain.com". www.idlebrain.com. Archived from the original on 25 July 2020. Retrieved 14 July 2020.
  48. ↑ https://archive.org/details/36th-annual-filmfare-south-winners
  49. ↑ Image
  50. ↑ HYBIZTV HD (3 June 2015). "Victory Venkatesh – Britannia Filmfare Awards 2014 – Hybiz.tv". Archived from the original on 7 November 2021 – via YouTube.
  51. ↑ https://archive.org/details/filmfare-best-actor
  52. ↑ "Filmfare – South Special". 18 October 1999. Archived from the original on 18 October 1999. Retrieved 21 October 2020.
  53. ↑ Image archive.org
  54. ↑ Image archive.org
  55. ↑ "TSR-TV9 award winners announced". Deccan Chronicle. 16 July 2015. Archived from the original on 5 January 2018. Retrieved 17 July 2015.

External links[edit | edit source]

Template:Nandi Special Jury Award

Template:Santosham Best Actor AwardTemplate:Filmfare Critics Award for Best Actor – TeluguTemplate:SIIMA Critics Award for Best Actor – Telugu

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