Vijay Raghavendra is an Indian actor born on 12 July 1968 in Bengaluru, Karnataka. He is the son of film producer S.A. Chinne Gowda and film actress Jayamma, and is a nephew of the legendary Kannada actor Dr. Rajkumar. His cousins include Sandalwood stars Shivarajkumar, Raghavendra Rajkumar, and the late Puneeth Rajkumar. His brother is actor Sri Murali. He made his acting debut as a child artist alongside Dr. Rajkumar in the family drama Chalisuva Modagalu (1982), becoming an instant household name in Karnataka. His role in Kotreshi Kanasu (1994) earned him the National Film Award for Best Child Artist, presented by the President of India - making him one of the youngest recipients of a National Award in Indian cinema. He received his formal acting training in Chennai. His adult career spans several Kannada productions including his lead debut Ninagagi (2002), Rishi (2005), Khushi, Kallarali Hoovagi (2008), Karanji, and Snehitaru (2012). He has also produced films through his production company. In March 2013, he entered the inaugural Bigg Boss Kannada Season 1, hosted by Kiccha Sudeep on ETV Kannada, with the house located in Lonavala. Over 98 days, his composed, dignified, patient, and conflict-averse personality consistently earned public admiration. He was declared the winner on 30 June 2013, receiving the trophy and a cash prize of ₹50 lakh - which he donated entirely to physically challenged girls for their weddings, a gesture of extraordinary generosity that was widely celebrated. He married Spandana in 2007; they have a son named Shourya.

His child acting debut alongside his uncle Dr. Rajkumar in Chalisuva Modagalu (1982); winning the National Film Award for Best Child Artist for Kotreshi Kanasu (1994); his adult lead roles in Ninagagi (2002), Kallarali Hoovagi (2008), Rishi (2005), and Snehitaru (2012); being the cousin of Sandalwood stars Shivarajkumar and Puneeth Rajkumar (sons of Dr. Rajkumar); winning Bigg Boss Kannada Season 1 (2013), hosted by Kiccha Sudeep on ETV Kannada.

Frequently Asked