Venkatesh: The MBA Graduate Who Became a Telugu Superstar, Won Nandi Award Five Times

Hyderabad, February 14, 2026:
Renowned Telugu cinema star Daggubati Venkatesh, popularly known as Victory Venkatesh, is considered one of the finest actors in the South Indian film industry, known for his strong script sense and consistent box-office success. Interestingly, the actor—who once aspired to work behind the camera—was an MBA graduate from the United States, but destiny had different plans, turning him into one of Telugu cinema’s biggest icons.

According to reports, Venkatesh was once the first choice for the romantic drama ‘Radhe Shyam’, which later starred Prabhas and Pooja Hegde. Filmmaker Chandra Sekhar Yeleti reportedly approached Venkatesh with the story, hoping to cast him in the lead role. However, the actor was said to be unimpressed with the script and declined the offer.

Following Venkatesh’s refusal, Yeleti reportedly sold the story rights to director Radha Krishna Kumar, who then went on to develop the project with Prabhas. Released in 2022, Radhe Shyam was made on a massive budget and filmed simultaneously in Telugu and Hindi. Despite heavy promotions and a grand setup, the film failed to meet expectations at the box office. Reports suggest the film earned approximately Rs 140 crore to Rs 214 crore worldwide, while its estimated budget was close to Rs 350 crore, making it one of the biggest commercial disappointments of the year.

Venkatesh, on the other hand, has enjoyed a remarkable career spanning over 37 years, beginning with his debut film ‘Kaliyuga Pandavulu’ in 1986. Over the decades, he has delivered several memorable hits such as Bobilli Raja, Kshana Kshanam, Prema, Dhruva Nakshatram, and many others, establishing himself as a dependable and respected star.

The actor has also made his presence felt in Bollywood through films like Anari and Taqdeerwala, earning appreciation for his versatile performances. His contribution to Telugu cinema has been recognized with five prestigious Nandi Awards, given by the Andhra Pradesh government for excellence in cinema, theatre, and television.

On the personal front, Venkatesh married Neeraja Reddy in 1985, at a time when inter-caste marriages were still uncommon and socially challenging. The couple has four children—three daughters and one son. Despite being a major celebrity, Venkatesh has consistently kept his family away from the limelight.

Apart from acting, Venkatesh is also the co-owner of Suresh Productions, one of India’s largest and most influential film production houses.

The veteran actor is now gearing up for multiple upcoming projects, including a film with director Anil Ravipudi, where he is expected to share screen space with megastar Chiranjeevi. He is also associated with filmmaker Trivikram Srinivas for an upcoming project titled Adarsha Kutumbam House No. 47. Reports further suggest that Venkatesh has signed the Telugu version of Drishyam 3, adding more excitement among fans.

With decades of success, awards, and an enduring legacy, Daggubati Venkatesh continues to remain a significant name in Indian cinema.