A much-loved actress of South Indian film industry, Nayanthara or Diana Mariam Kurien is one of the few to made it from the villages of Kerala to being South Indian cinema’s ‘Lady Superstar’. There are many who appreciate her work and her decision-making which derives from fierce passion. So, let us appreciate the journey of Nayanthara, a name which is synonymous with beauty and passionate performances, who has certainly shown the world the meaning of true dedication and talent.
Early Life and Background
November 18, 1984, marked the birth of Nayanthara in Thiruvalla, Kerala, where she was named Diana Mariam Kurien. She and her sibling Leno grew up in a Malayali Nasrani household, and as a child she experienced different cultures across India because of her father being in the Indian Army. Even though Nayanthara was always on the move, she was good in studies and had started developing a keen interest in acting.
The Start of a Promising Career
History was made when in 2003, while still a college student, Nayanthara was prominently featured by film director Sathyan Anthikkad. Nayanthara’s first film in the industry was a Malayalam film called Manassinakkare which later turned out to be a blockbuster, positively affecting her career in the southern film industry. In a short time, she received recognition due to her charm, talent and diligence.
The Journey to Tamil and Telugu Movies
In the year 2005, Nayanthara made her film debut in the Tamil and Telegu film industry after already having made headway in her professional career in the Malayalam cinema. She also starred with Rajinikanth in the movie Chandramukhi which lifted her status and proved her versatility. Not only the various regional movies in which she acted able her up to be so versatile, but her fan base also grew rapidly as the regions proved to be diverse as well.
Nayanthara’s major career achievements
As she cleaved through many challenging characters in her films, Nayanthara’s stars were only on the rise and wouldn’t set anytime soon. She shared screen with Sarath Kumar, Mohanlal, and Mammootty, and within no time established herself as an actress who is articulate and is way ahead of quite a few in the industry. She played strong independent women which included characters that were unlike anything seen in the southern Indian film industry.
Nayanthara’s Movie Overview
She has also acted in some of the movies mentioned below that have added to her successful career:
Manassinakkare (2003) – This was her first film while working in the Malayalam movie industry.
Chandramukhi (2005) – This film changed things around for Nayanthara when she wasem an actor in Tamil cinema.
Billa (2007) – That marked her image from actress to an action appealing star in the industry.
Sri Rama Rajyam (2011) – This was a Telugu mythological drama in which she won an award for her performance.
Raja Rani (2013) – A romantic Tamil drama that was in high demand during its release.
Aramm (2017) – In this film, she portrayed the role of a district collector and made her point socially.
Bigil (2019) – Featured with Vijay in a dual role.
Jawan (2023) – The film stars Shah Rukh Khan
Major Milestones in Nayanthara’s Career
Nayanthara’s forte is in the expeditions of unflinching and resolute roles. She has displayed her versatility by taking up the role of the district collector in Aramm, a political leader in Mookuthi Amman and a blind woman character in the movie Netrikann. These roles emphasize her commitment to the craft and the willingness to try new things. Unlike most popular actresses, who wouldn’t dare to take on such strong characters, she does it with all her heart.
Her Personal Life and Affairs
Even in her career, Nayanthara’ personal life ever lacks unfair attention. She had a romance with director and choreographer Prabhu Deva that caught a lot of limelight due to the fair amount of legal wrangling that surrounded it. Unfortunately, they broke up later, but these only made her stronger as she poured herself into work.
Nayanthara – wife and mother
Nayanthara’s focus shifted in June 2022 after she got married to director Vignesh Shivan because prior, she seemed to be very motivated and dedicated to work. In September, she and her husband welcomed twin sons – Uyir and Ulag – who were born through a surrogate. Nayanthara has a new mandate as a wife and mother who brings much needed stability to her otherwise choked schedule.
Nayanthara’s Social Media handles
Nayanthara does not appear on social media as often as some other actresses but is quite active on Instagram. She appreciates the support of her admirers and utilizes her social media for more than just promoting her films. In many of her updates, she captures moments spent with her family, flying to different countries, and spending time with her husband Vignesh and children, making her fans feel close to her.
Nayanthara’s wealth and her impact on the Film industry
Nayanthara is one among the top-paid actresses in the South Indian film industry. She has a net worth of around ₹80 crores (USD $10 million). Most of her income comes from her films, endorsements deals, and the production house she runs with her husband. Besides her money, her contribution to the film industry is outstanding; she is a cultural icon and an inspiration for many aspiring actresses.
Fun facts about Nayanthara
The name “Nayanthara” means ‘the one with beautiful eyes’ (as it literally translates), which is truly a suitable name for her beautiful features.
She was also the winner of Best Model in Kerala in 2002, that was before she debuted in films.
Many would be surprised knowing that she graduated in English Literature, while starting her career in pursuing Chartered Accountancy; however she later decided to focus on acting.
In 2011 she embraced Hinduism and since then, Nayanthara has been her name.
She still considers Manassinakkare her all time favorite film because it was the stepping point in her career as an actress because it was here that she made her entry into films.
