Sweety Shetty, known professionally as Anushka Shetty, was born on November 7, 1981, and has established herself as a prominent figure in Indian cinema, particularly in Telugu and Tamil films. With a career that spans over two decades, she has earned the title of 'Queen of South Indian cinema' due to her remarkable versatility and success in various roles.
Shetty made her acting debut in 2005 with the Telugu film Super, which earned her a nomination for the Filmfare Best Supporting Actress – Telugu. Her breakthrough came in 2006 with the blockbuster Vikramarkudu, followed by a string of successful films such as Lakshyam, Souryam, and Chintakayala Ravi. In 2009, her dual roles in the dark fantasy film Arundhati won her the first of three Filmfare Awards for Best Actress – Telugu, solidifying her status in the industry.
Throughout the 2010s, Shetty continued to shine in both Telugu and Tamil cinema, starring in major hits like Singam and its sequel, as well as the critically acclaimed dramas Vaanam and Deiva Thirumagal. Her portrayal of the titular character in the epic Rudhramadevi earned her another Filmfare Award, while her role as Princess Devasena in the Baahubali series garnered widespread acclaim and further elevated her career.
In addition to her numerous accolades, including three Filmfare Awards South and the prestigious Kalaimamani honor from the Government of Tamil Nadu, Shetty is recognized as one of the highest-paid actresses in India. She is set to make her Malayalam debut in the upcoming film Kathanar – The Wild Sorcerer, marking her fiftieth film, which is expected to release in the latter half of 2026.