PERSONAL INFORMATION
Other name: Upendra
Profession(s): • Director • Scriptwriter • Actor • Politician
Date of Birth: 18 September 1969 (Thursday)
Age (as of 2024): 55 Years
Birthplace: Bangalore, India
Zodiac sign: Virgo
Nationality: Indian
Hometown: Bangalore, India
Marriage Date: 14 December 2003
Age: 55 Years
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EDUCATION
College/University: APS College of Commerce, Bangalore
Educational Qualification: A bachelor’s degree in Commerce
PHYSICAL STATISTICS
Height (approx.): in centimeters – 175 cm in meters – 1.75 m in feet & inches – 5’ 9”
Weight (approx.): in kilograms – 75 kg in pounds – 165 lbs
Body Measurements (approx.): – Chest: 42 Inches – Waist: 28 Inches – Biceps: 15 Inches
Eye Colour: Black
Hair Colour: Black
FAMILY & RELATIONSHIPS
Marital Status: Married
Wife/Spouse: Priyanka Trivedi (Actress who won the title of Miss Kolkata in 1996)
Children: Son – Aayush Rao Daughter – Aishwarya Rao Note: Image in the Wife’s section
Parents: Father – Manjunath Rao (Cook) Mother – Anusuya Rao Note: Image in the Wife’s section
Siblings: Brother – Sudhindra Rao ( Worked in Border Security Force; however, after serving for 10 years, he resigned and helped his brother, Upendra, in film production. Sister – None
Wife: Priyanka Trivedi
CAREER HIGHLIGHTS
Debut: As an actor: Anantana Avantara (1989) As a director: Tharle Nan Maga (1992)
Awards, Honours, Achievements: 5th SIIMA Awards 2016: Best Director for the film ‘Uppi 2’ 2nd SIIMA Awards 2013: Critics award for best actor for the film ‘Katariveera Surasundarangi’ Karnataka State Film Awards 2012: Best Director and Best film for the film ‘Super’ 1st SIIMA Awards 2012: Special appreciation award for the film ‘Shrimathi’ Suvarna Film Awards 2008: Special Award For Performance for the film ‘Anatharu’ 2011: Favorite Director Award for the film ‘Super’ 2011: Favorite Film for the film ‘Super’ Hello Gandhinagara Awards 2004: Best dialogue and Best actor for the film ‘Raktha Kanneeru’ 47th Filmfare Awards South 2000: Best Director and Best film for the film ‘Upendra’ Udaya Film Awards 1999: Best male actor for film ‘A’ 2003: Best male actor for film ‘Nagarahavu’ 2011: Best Screenplay for the film ‘Super’ 2013: Best Male Actor for the film ‘Kalpana’ 13th SIIMA Awards 2025: Best Director award for the film ‘UI’
OTHER INFORMATION
Political Inclination: Upendra established the political party Karnataka Pragnyavanta Janata Paksha along with D. Mahesh Gowda; however, on 6 March 2018, he resigned due to some misunderstandings. Later, he formed another party named Uttama Prajakeeya Party (UPP).
INTERESTING BACKGROUND INFORMATION
Upendra Rao, a prominent figure in the Kannada film industry, has made a significant impact as a filmmaker, screenwriter, and actor. His journey into the world of cinema began with a deep-rooted passion for storytelling, which he cultivated during his school years by engaging in theatre, debates, and various cultural activities. This early involvement laid the foundation for his artistic aspirations. While pursuing his college education, Upendra took on the role of a writer, which eventually led him to the mentorship of the late Kashinatha Hathwara, an esteemed actor and director who was also a distant relative. Their initial encounter was serendipitous; Upendra presented his poetry and writings, and in an encouraging gesture, Kashinatha invited him to collaborate on film projects. This pivotal moment opened the door for Upendra, who soon found himself not only writing songs but also diving into dialogue writing, assisting in various departments, and co-directing a film alongside his mentor.
Upendra made his directorial debut in 1992, and over the years, he has helmed several notable Kannada films that enriched the industry. His work includes titles such as “Shhh!” (1993), “Om” (1995), “A” (1998), and the eponymous “Upendra” (1999), all of which showcased both his directorial prowess and acting talent. In addition to these films, Upendra appeared in a variety of other projects throughout the 2000s, such as “Preethse” (2000), “Kutumba” (2002), and “Aishwarya” (2006), among others. Each film contributed to his growing reputation as a multifaceted artist capable of captivating audiences with his performances as well as his directing skills.
A notable highlight in Upendra’s career was the release of “Operation Antha” in 1995, an ambitious film that served as an extended version of the 1981 classic “Antha.” Despite its high expectations, the film faced challenges, including controversies and a lack of commercial success. However, Upendra’s resilience shone through, leading to a remarkable comeback with “Super” in 2010. This film not only broke box office records but also garnered critical acclaim, solidifying his status as one of the leading filmmakers in Kannada cinema. The film’s success marked a new chapter in his career, demonstrating his ability to evolve and resonate with audiences.
In addition to his cinematic contributions, Upendra’s influence extends beyond the film industry. He is recognized as the brand ambassador for United Breweries and has lent his endorsement to several well-known brands, including Lunars Footwear and Mavalli Tiffin Room (MTR). His connection with Royal Challengers Bangalore further highlights his multifaceted role in the cultural landscape of Karnataka. In 2019, Upendra ventured into the political arena by founding the Uttama Prajakeeya Party (UPP), reflecting his desire to impact society beyond the realms of entertainment. Throughout his career, Upendra Rao has not only entertained but also inspired, leaving an indelible mark on the Kannada film industry and beyond.
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Note: All biographical information compiled from publicly available sources.