SOUTH ACTORS AND THEIR BOLLYWOOD DEBUTS

By Entertainment Desk  | August 15, 2025

Rajinikanth

After making his Bollywood debut in Andhaa Kanoon (1983), the legendary Thalaivar starred in almost 19 Hindi films, including Hum and John Jani Janardhan.

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Chiranjeevi

The Megastar of Telugu cinema made his Hindi debut with Pratibandh, an action drama that showcased his trademark style and screen charisma.

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Nagarjuna Akkineni

After making his Bollywood debut in Shiva (1990), Nagarjuna went on to demonstrate his versatility in Khuda Gawah, Criminal, Zakhm, and LOC Kargil, and he even made an appearance in Brahmāstra (2022).

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Chakravarthy, J.D.

Known for Shiva, Satya, and Vaastu Shastra, Chakravarthy also expanded into direction with Darwaaza Bandh Rakho. Alongside Manoj Bajpayee, his performance in Satya continues to be a career high point.

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Kamal Haasan

With iconic performances in Sadma, Saagar, Ek Duuje Ke Liye, and the cult favorite Chachi 420, Kamal adorned Bollywood.

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Dhanush

Dhanush combined regional charm with Hindi cinema in his noteworthy roles in Raanjhanaa, Shamitabh, and Atrangi Re. He will reunite with director Aanand L. Rai in Tere Ishk Mein (November 2025).

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Mohanlal

With notable parts in Company, Ram Gopal Varma Ki Aag, and a brief appearance in Tezz, Malayalam icon Mohanlal made his Bollywood debut.

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Venkatesh

Venkatesh stepped into Bollywood with Anari, a romantic drama co-starring Karisma Kapoor, which struck a chord with family audiences.

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Dulquer Salman

Karwaan, Dulquer Salmaan’s debut Hindi film, came out in 2018. He co-stars with Mithila Palkar and Irrfan Khan.

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Jr NTR

Jr NTR, who became popular across the country with Rajamouli’s RRR, made his Bollywood debut with Hrithik Roshan in War 2.

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