Kalyani Priyadarshan is an Indian actress known for her work across Telugu, Tamil and Malayalam cinema.
Born in Chennai into a film family, she began behind the scenes as an assistant production designer before making a celebrated acting debut in the Telugu film Hello (2017).
Over a short span she’s become known for choosing varied roles across South Indian languages and earning awards for her debut and later performances.
Profile Data
- Full Name: Kalyani Priyadarshan
- Stage Name: Kalyani Priyadarshan
- Born: 5 April 1993
- Age: 32 years (as of 2025)
- Birthplace: Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
- Nationality: Indian
- Occupation: Actress, Model
- Height: 5 ft 4 in (163 cm)
- Religion: Hinduism
- Parents: Priyadarshan (father), Lissy (mother)
- Siblings: Siddharth Priyadarshan (brother), Kalyani has another sibling (sister – name Unknown)
- Spouse: Unknown
- Children: Unknown
- Relationship: Single / Not publicly disclosed
- Net Worth: Estimated $1 million – $5 million (approx.)
Early Life & Education
Kalyani Priyadarshan was born in Chennai on 5 April 1993 into a family with deep film connections — her father is the veteran filmmaker Priyadarshan and her mother is the former actress Lissy. Raised in a household steeped in cinema, she was exposed to filmmaking very early on. She pursued formal studies in design and attended Parsons School of Design, which influenced her early interest in the visual and production side of films.
From Behind the Scenes to Centre Stage
Before acting, Kalyani worked as an assistant production designer and art director. She assisted on major projects including work on Krrish 3 (2013) and on Tamil projects such as Iru Mugan (2016). That experience taught her the craft of cinema from a designer’s point of view and helped develop an eye for framing, costume and production detail.
Acting Debut and Breakthrough
Kalyani made her acting debut in the Telugu romantic drama Hello (2017), starring opposite Akhil Akkineni. The film introduced her to a mainstream South Indian audience and her performance earned industry recognition — she won the Filmfare Award for Best Female Debut – South for Hello.
Expanding Across Languages: Telugu, Tamil & Malayalam
After Hello, Kalyani continued to build a pan-South-Indian profile. She appeared in Telugu films like Chitralahari (2019) and made her Tamil film entry with Hero (2019). In Malayalam cinema she gained a stronger footing with Varane Avashyamund (2020), and later received acclaim for roles in Hridayam (2022), Thallumaala (2022), and the family-comedy Bro Daddy (2022). These films showcased her range — from romantic lead to comic timing and emotional drama — and solidified her reputation as a versatile performer.
Notable Films & Roles (Selected)
- Hello (2017) — Telugu debut; widely recognized performance.
- Chitralahari (2019) — Telugu — a successful commercial outing.
- Hero (2019) — Tamil — expanded footprint in Kollywood.
- Varane Avashyamund (2020) — Malayalam — positive audience response.
- Hridayam (2022) — Malayalam — critically acclaimed.
- Thallumaala (2022) — Malayalam — part of a high-energy ensemble.
- Bro Daddy (2022) — Malayalam — popular comedy-drama.
Awards & Recognition
She won the Filmfare Award South for Best Female Debut – South for Hello and has received SIIMA awards and other nominations for performances in Malayalam films, including recognition for Varane Avashyamund and Bro Daddy. Her rapid rise and selection of commercially successful and critically praised films have made her one of the notable young actresses in South Indian cinema.
Brand Endorsements & Media Presence
Beyond films, Kalyani has appeared in ad campaigns and brand endorsements. She has been a cover face for magazines and selected among “Most Desirable” regional lists.
Her fashion and public appearances have contributed to a growing celebrity status, making her a sought-after face for endorsements and magazine features
Personal Style & On-screen Persona
Kalyani’s on-screen persona frequently balances youthful vulnerability with modern confidence. Off-screen, she is often praised for her fashion sense and approachable public demeanor.
Her background in design sometimes reflects in her choices — both in styling and in an evident comfort with film aesthetics.
Filmography Snapshot (Concise)
A short selection (not exhaustive): Hello (2017, Telugu), Chitralahari (2019, Telugu), Hero (2019, Tamil), Varane Avashyamund (2020, Malayalam), Hridayam (2022, Malayalam), Thallumaala (2022, Malayalam), Bro Daddy (2022, Malayalam). For a full filmography, check film databases and her official profiles.
FAQs
Who is Kalyani Priyadarshan?
— An Indian actress working mainly in Telugu, Tamil and Malayalam films
When was she born?
— 5 April 1993.
What was her debut film?
— Hello (2017).
Has she won awards?
— Yes, including the Filmfare Award South for Best Female Debut – South.
Which languages does she act in?
— Telugu, Tamil and Malayalam.
Conclusion
Kalyani Priyadarshan represents a modern film professional who combined formal design education and practical set experience to build a foothold as an actor.
In a short time she has moved from behind-the-scenes roles to award-winning screen performances across multiple South Indian film industries.
Her thoughtful role choices, evolving craft, and cross-industry presence make her one to watch as she continues to expand her filmography and public profile.