Asha Kelunni, known professionally as Revathi, was born on July eighth, nineteen sixty-six. She is a multifaceted Indian actress, film director, voice actress, Bharatanatyam dancer, and philanthropist, celebrated for her contributions to Tamil and Malayalam cinema, as well as Telugu, Hindi, and Kannada films. Renowned for her versatility and natural acting, Revathi has become a prominent figure in South Indian cinema, often portraying strong and relatable women.
Revathi's career took off with her leading role in Bharathiraja's Mann Vasanai in nineteen eighty-three, earning her the Filmfare Special Award – South. Her remarkable performance in Kakkothikkavile Appooppan Thaadikal in nineteen eighty-eight won her the Filmfare Award for Best Actress. She further showcased her talent in the political drama Thevar Magan in nineteen ninety-two, for which she received the National Film Award for Best Supporting Actress and her second Filmfare Award. Her performance in the Telugu film Ankuram in nineteen ninety-three earned her a third Filmfare Award, solidifying her status as a leading actress in the industry.
In two thousand two, Revathi ventured into film direction with her English film debut, Mitr, My Friend, which garnered the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in English. She continued to direct critically acclaimed films, including Phir Milenge in two thousand four, Kerala Cafe in two thousand nine, and Salaam Venky in two thousand twenty-two. Additionally, she made her mark as a voice actress in the films Pasumpon and Aasai, both released in nineteen ninety-five, lending her voice to actresses Saranya Ponvannan and Suvalakshmi.
Throughout her illustrious career, Revathi has received numerous accolades, including three National Film Awards, seven Filmfare Awards South, two Tamil Nadu State Film Awards, and a Kerala State Film Award. In nineteen ninety-three, she was honored with the Kalaimamani, the highest civilian award in Tamil Nadu, recognizing her significant contributions to the arts.