Nani, whose real name is Ghanta Naveen Babu, is a popular Indian actor and film producer who primarily works in Telugu cinema. Widely known as the “Natural Star,” he is admired for his realistic performances, expressive acting, and ability to portray a wide range of characters.

His notable films include Ashta Chamma, Eega, Bhale Bhale Magadivoy, Jersey, Shyam Singha Roy, Dasara, Hi Nanna, Saripodhaa Sanivaaram, and HIT: The Third Case.

Personal Details

• Full Name: Ghanta Naveen Babu

Early Life and Education

Nani was born on February 24, 1984, in Hyderabad, India. His family has roots in Challapalli, Andhra Pradesh, and he grew up in Hyderabad.

He attended St. Alphonsa's High School and Narayana Junior College before completing his degree at Wesley Degree College in Secunderabad. His interest in filmmaking eventually led him toward the Telugu film industry.

Before Becoming an Actor

Before entering acting, Nani worked as an assistant director on films such as Radha Gopalam, Allari Bullodu, Asthram, and Dhee. He also worked as a radio jockey for a period, hosting a programme known as “Non-Stop Nani.”

His early experience behind the camera helped him understand different aspects of filmmaking before he became an actor.

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Acting Debut

Nani made his acting debut with the 2008 Telugu film Ashta Chamma, directed by Mohana Krishna Indraganti. The film received a positive response and introduced him as a promising performer.

He followed it with films such as Ride, Snehituda, and Bheemili Kabaddi Jattu, gradually building his reputation in Telugu cinema.

Career Breakthrough

The films Ala Modalaindi and Pilla Zamindar, released in 2011, helped strengthen Nani's popularity. In 2012, he appeared in S. S. Rajamouli's Eega, which became one of the most distinctive films of his career.

He continued to gain recognition with Yevade Subramanyam and Bhale Bhale Magadivoy in 2015, followed by Gentleman, Nenu Local, Ninnu Kori, and MCA: Middle Class Abbayi.

From Jersey to Dasara

In Jersey (2019), Nani portrayed Arjun, a former cricketer pursuing an important personal goal. His emotional performance received considerable appreciation and became a highlight of his career.

In Shyam Singha Roy (2021), he explored another challenging role. His portrayal of Dharani in Dasara (2023) showcased a different screen image and earned him further recognition.

He later appeared in Hi Nanna (2023), a family drama, and Saripodhaa Sanivaaram (2024), an action drama. In 2025, he starred in HIT: The Third Case, continuing his work in the thriller genre.

Awards and Achievements

Nani has received several awards for his performances. He won the Nandi Award for Best Actor for Yeto Vellipoyindhi Manasu. He also received Filmfare Critics Awards for Bhale Bhale Magadivoy and Shyam Singha Roy.

His performance in Dasara earned him major recognition, including the Filmfare Award for Best Actor – Telugu and a SIIMA award. These achievements reflect his reputation as a versatile performer.

Producer and Wall Poster Cinema

Beyond acting, Nani is a film producer and co-founded Wall Poster Cinema. The production company has been associated with films such as Awe!, HIT: The First Case, HIT: The Second Case, and Court: State vs a Nobody.

Through his production work, Nani has supported distinctive stories and filmmakers working on different kinds of Telugu films.

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Personal Life

Nani married Anjana Yelavarthy on October 27, 2012. They have a son named Arjun, who was born in 2017. Nani generally keeps his family life private while focusing on his film career.

Popular Movies of Nani

• Ashta Chamma (2008)

Conclusion

Nani has built a distinctive career through natural performances, varied roles, and a willingness to explore different genres. As both an actor and producer, he continues to contribute to Telugu cinema with films that appeal to a broad audience.