The Telugu film industry, popularly known as Tollywood, has witnessed the rise of numerous talented actors who entered the industry in their early 20s and became icons. These young individuals showcased immense talent, passion, and dedication, captivating audiences with their mesmerizing performances.
Mahesh Babu, often called the “Prince of Tollywood,” started his acting journey in his early 20s. Making his debut with the film “Raja Kumarudu” at 23, Mahesh Babu impressed audiences with his charming looks and exceptional acting prowess. His natural talent and ability to portray a wide range of characters garnered him immense popularity and critical acclaim. With his subsequent films like “Pokiri,” “Dookudu,” and “Bharat Ane Nenu,” Mahesh Babu established himself as one of the leading actors in Tollywood.
Jr. NTR, also known as Tarak, burst into the Telugu film industry at 19 with the film “Ninnu Choodalani.” While he initially struggled to find his footing, Jr. NTR’s breakthrough came with the movie “Student No.1,” directed by S.S. Rajamouli. His energetic performances, remarkable dance skills, and intense screen presence earned him a massive fan following. With films like “Simhadri,” “Yamadonga,” and “Temper,” Jr., NTR showcased his versatility as an actor and solidified his position as a top star in Tollywood.
Prabhas, fondly known as “Darling” by his fans, made his acting debut in the film “Eeshwar” at 23. However, his portrayal of the titular character in the epic blockbuster “Baahubali: The Beginning” and its sequel “Baahubali: The Conclusion” catapulted him to unprecedented heights of fame and success. Prabhas’ dedication to his craft, towering screen presence, and commitment to larger-than-life roles endeared him to audiences worldwide.
Allu Arjun, known for his impeccable style and exceptional dance moves, entered the Telugu film industry with the film “Gangotri” at age 20. With his subsequent films like “Arya,” “Race Gurram,” and “Ala Vaikunthapurramuloo,” Allu Arjun captured the hearts of the audience with his energetic performances and charismatic on-screen presence. His unique style and ability to connect with the masses have earned him a dedicated fan base, making him one of the most popular actors in Tollywood.
Ram Charan, the son of megastar Chiranjeevi, entered the Telugu film industry at 22 with the film “Chirutha.” Ram Charan quickly made a mark in Tollywood with his impressive screen presence and intense performances. Known for his exceptional dancing skills and action-packed roles, he garnered immense popularity with films like “Magadheera,” “Rangasthalam,” and “Dhruva.” Ram Charan’s ability to seamlessly blend commercial entertainment with compelling storytelling has solidified his position as an industry-leading actor.
Naga Chaitanya, the son of legendary actor Akkineni Nagarjuna, made his acting debut at 23 with the film “Josh.” Despite hailing from a renowned film family, Naga Chaitanya carved his path in Tollywood. With movies like “Ye Maaya Chesave,” “Manam,” and “Majili,” he showcased his acting prowess and versatility. Naga Chaitanya’s ability to portray a wide range of characters and boyish charm has garnered him a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim.
Vijay Deverakonda shot to fame in Tollywood with his breakthrough film “Arjun Reddy” at 28, slightly older than others on this list. However, his impact on the industry has been significant. Known for his intense performances and unconventional roles, Vijay Deverakonda has become a youth icon. Films like “Geetha Govindam” and “Dear Comrade” further established his popularity and showcased his ability to connect with the younger audience. Vijay Deverakonda’s charismatic personality and relatable characters have made him a sought-after actor in Tollywood.
Sai Pallavi, a breath of fresh air in Tollywood, made her debut at 24 with the film “Premam.” Hailing from a dance background, Sai Pallavi’s expressive eyes and natural acting skills instantly captivated the audience. Her portrayal of strong female characters in films like “Fidaa,” “MCA,” and “Padi Padi Leche Manasu” received critical acclaim and resonated with the audience. Sai Pallavi’s ability to effortlessly portray a range of emotions and her dedication to realistic performances have made her a beloved actress in the industry.
Nani, also known as Natural Star, began his acting career in Tollywood with the film “Ashta Chamma” at 24. His relatable and down-to-earth performances earned him a dedicated fan following. Nani’s versatility as an actor is evident in films like “Eega,” “Bhale Bhale Magadivoy,” and “Jersey,” where he effortlessly transitions between intense and light-hearted roles. With his knack for choosing unconventional scripts and delivering memorable performances, Nani has become one of the most bankable stars in Tollywood.
Rashmika Mandanna, an actress who predominantly works in Telugu and Kannada cinema, entered the industry at 19 with the film “Kirik Party.” Known for her infectious energy and girl-next-door charm, Rashmika quickly won hearts with her performances in films like “Geetha Govindam,” “Dear Comrade,” and “Sarileru Neekevvaru.” Her ability to effortlessly portray a wide range of emotions and connect with the audience has made her one of the most sought-after actresses in Tollywood.