Updated on: 04 March, 2025 06:52 PM IST |Racheal Varghese

South Indian cinema has seen many talented actors who made remarkable debuts, setting the stage for their successful careers. These actors not only impressed audiences with their first films but also went on to become major stars in the industry.

Mahesh Babu made a remarkable entry into the film industry with his lead role in the Telugu film "Raja Kumarudu" (1999). Directed by K. Raghavendra Rao, the film featured Mahesh as Raja, a young man who returns from the USA to his homeland and falls in love with a local girl. His performance was widely appreciated, earning him the Nandi Award for Best Male Debut. Mahesh's charming screen presence, natural acting skills, and charismatic personality helped him quickly establish himself as a promising actor. The film's success paved the way for Mahesh's illustrious career in Telugu cinema, where he went on to deliver several blockbuster hits.

Allu Arjun's debut in Telugu cinema with "Gangotri" (2003) was a significant milestone in his career. Directed by K. Raghavendra Rao, the film featured Allu Arjun as Simhadri, a young man with a deep bond with his childhood friend, Gangotri. His impressive performance, expressive acting, and dynamic dance moves garnered widespread acclaim. "Gangotri" marked the beginning of Allu Arjun's journey to stardom, as he quickly gained a massive fan following. Known for his versatility and ability to excel in various genres, Allu Arjun has since become one of the leading actors in Telugu cinema.

Ram Charan made a spectacular debut with the Telugu film "Chirutha" (2007), directed by Puri Jagannadh. In the film, he played Charan, a young man seeking revenge for his father's murder. Ram Charan's powerful performance, coupled with his action sequences and dance skills, earned him widespread recognition. The film was a commercial hit, and Ram Charan received the Filmfare Award for Best Male Debut South. His impressive entry into the film industry set the stage for a successful career, with several blockbuster films and accolades to his name. Ram Charan's dedication and talent have solidified his position as one of the top actors in South Indian cinema.

Dhanush made his debut in the Tamil film industry with "Thulluvadho Ilamai" (2002), directed by his father, Kasthuri Raja. The film, which portrayed the lives of adolescents dealing with various challenges, saw Dhanush in the role of Mahesh, a teenager navigating the complexities of love and life. Dhanush's raw and natural performance resonated with audiences, making the film a success. His ability to portray relatable characters and his unique acting style quickly set him apart in the industry. Over the years, Dhanush has continued to impress with his versatile performances, earning critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base.

Prabhas began his journey in Telugu cinema with the film "Eeswar" (2002), directed by Jayanth C. Paranjee. In the movie, Prabhas played the titular character Eeswar, a passionate and determined young man who stands up against social injustice. His strong screen presence, powerful acting, and charismatic portrayal of the character garnered positive responses from both audiences and critics. "Eeswar" laid the foundation for Prabhas's successful career, as he went on to deliver numerous hit films and became one of the most sought-after actors in Telugu cinema. Prabhas's dedication and commitment to his craft have earned him a prominent place in the industry.