by Nani Biography
Nani, popularly known as the Natural Star of Telugu cinema, is one of India’s most accomplished actors, producers, and television presenters. Known for his effortless acting style and relatable on-screen characters, Nani has become a leading figure in Telugu cinema through critically acclaimed and commercially successful films. From romantic dramas to action entertainers and emotional family stories, he has consistently delivered memorable performances that have earned him a loyal fan following.
Born as Ghanta Naveen Babu, Nani entered the film industry as an assistant director before making his acting debut with Ashta Chamma (2008). Over the years, he has starred in blockbuster films including Eega, Bhale Bhale Magadivoy, Ninnu Kori, Jersey, Shyam Singha Roy, Dasara, Hi Nanna, Saripodhaa Sanivaaram, and HIT: The Third Case. His natural acting ability, careful script selection, and versatility have made him one of the most respected actors in South Indian cinema.
Early Life and Education
Nani was born as Ghanta Naveen Babu on 24 February 1984 in Hyderabad, Telangana (then part of Andhra Pradesh), India. He spent his childhood in Hyderabad and completed his schooling there before pursuing higher education.
He graduated from Wesley Degree College, Hyderabad, where he developed a strong interest in films and storytelling. Unlike many actors who entered cinema through modeling, Nani initially aspired to become a filmmaker. His passion for filmmaking led him to work behind the camera before stepping into acting.
Before making his acting debut, Nani worked as an assistant director under filmmaker Bapu on the Telugu film Radha Gopalam. He also worked as a radio jockey for a short period, which helped improve his communication skills and confidence.
Acting Career
Nani made his acting debut with Ashta Chamma (2008), directed by Mohana Krishna Indraganti. His charming performance immediately caught the audience’s attention, and the film became a commercial success. The debut established him as a promising newcomer in Telugu cinema.
His career reached new heights with Ala Modalaindi (2011), a romantic comedy that showcased his natural acting style. The success of the film strengthened his position as one of the industry’s rising stars.
A major breakthrough came in Eega (2012), directed by S. S. Rajamouli. Although Nani appeared only during the first part of the film, his performance played a crucial role in establishing the emotional foundation of the story. The fantasy blockbuster became an international success and introduced him to audiences beyond Telugu cinema.
Over the following years, Nani delivered several successful films, including Yeto Vellipoyindhi Manasu, Bhale Bhale Magadivoy, Krishna Gaadi Veera Prema Gaadha, Gentleman, Nenu Local, and MCA (Middle Class Abbayi). His ability to portray ordinary characters with authenticity earned him the nickname Natural Star.
In 2019, Nani starred in Jersey, portraying Arjun, a talented cricketer attempting a comeback in his late thirties. The emotionally powerful sports drama received widespread critical acclaim and is regarded as one of the finest performances of his career. His portrayal won multiple awards and further enhanced his reputation as a versatile actor.
Nani continued experimenting with different genres through films such as Gang Leader, V, Tuck Jagadish, Shyam Singha Roy, and Ante Sundaraniki. In Dasara (2023), he surprised audiences with a rugged, action-oriented role that became one of the biggest commercial successes of his career.
He followed it with Hi Nanna (2023), an emotional family drama praised for its heartfelt storytelling and mature performance. In Saripodhaa Sanivaaram (2024), Nani explored another action-driven character while maintaining the emotional depth for which he is known.
Continuing his successful run, Nani starred in HIT: The Third Case (2025), playing the lead investigator in the popular crime thriller franchise. Besides acting, he has also produced several successful films under Wall Poster Cinema, supporting fresh talent and unique storytelling in Telugu cinema.
Today, Nani remains one of the most bankable stars in the Telugu film industry, consistently balancing commercial entertainers with critically acclaimed performances.
Nani Movies
Some of Nani’s most popular films include:
- Ashta Chamma (2008)
- Ala Modalaindi (2011)
- Eega (2012)
- Yeto Vellipoyindhi Manasu (2012)
- Bhale Bhale Magadivoy (2015)
- Gentleman (2016)
- Nenu Local (2017)
- MCA – Middle Class Abbayi (2017)
- Krishnarjuna Yuddham (2018)
- Jersey (2019)
- Gang Leader (2019)
- V (2020)
- Shyam Singha Roy (2021)
- Ante Sundaraniki (2022)
- Dasara (2023)
- Hi Nanna (2023)
- Saripodhaa Sanivaaram (2024)
- HIT: The Third Case (2025)
His filmography highlights his versatility across romance, comedy, sports, thriller, action, and family dramas.
Personal Life
Many fans search for Nani wife and Nani family. Nani married Anjana Yelavarthy in 2012 after a long-term relationship. The couple has a son named Arjun, affectionately called Junnu. Despite his celebrity status, Nani keeps his family life relatively private and prefers to separate his personal and professional lives.
Outside acting, he enjoys traveling, reading, cricket, and discovering new filmmaking techniques. He also actively supports young filmmakers through his production house.
Awards and Recognition
Nani has received numerous awards throughout his career, including Filmfare Awards South, SIIMA Awards, and other industry honors. His performances in Bhale Bhale Magadivoy, Jersey, Shyam Singha Roy, and Dasara have earned widespread critical acclaim. His ability to portray emotionally rich characters has made him one of Telugu cinema’s most respected performers.
Interesting Facts About Nani
- His real name is Ghanta Naveen Babu.
- He is popularly known as the Natural Star.
- He started his career as an assistant director.
- His acting debut came with Ashta Chamma (2008).
- Eega became his first international blockbuster.
- He won widespread praise for Jersey.
- He owns the production company Wall Poster Cinema.
- He has hosted the Telugu version of Bigg Boss Season 2.
- He primarily works in Telugu cinema.
- He is known for selecting content-driven films.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Nani?
Nani is an Indian actor, producer, and television presenter who primarily works in Telugu cinema. He is widely known for films such as Eega, Jersey, Dasara, Hi Nanna, and Shyam Singha Roy.
What is Nani’s real name?
Nani’s real name is Ghanta Naveen Babu.
What is Nani’s age?
Nani was born on 24 February 1984.
Is Nani married?
Yes. Nani married Anjana Yelavarthy in 2012, and they have a son named Arjun.
Which are Nani’s best movies?
Some of his most acclaimed films include Eega, Jersey, Bhale Bhale Magadivoy, Dasara, Hi Nanna, Shyam Singha Roy, Gentleman, and Ala Modalaindi.
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