Vijay Raghavendra is an Indian actor, director, and television host who mainly works in the Kannada film industry. Popularly known as “Chinnari Mutha,” he started his career as a child artist and later became a successful lead actor.
He is best known for films like Ninagagi, Chinnari Mutha, Kallarali Hoovagi, and Shivayogi Sri Puttayyajja. Vijay also won Bigg Boss Kannada Season 1, further increasing his popularity. With a career spanning over four decades, he remains one of the most respected personalities in Kannada cinema.
Vijay Raghavendra Wiki & Biography
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Vijay Raghavendra |
| Nicknames | Chinnari Mutha, Raaghu |
| Profession | Actor, Director, Television Host |
| Date of Birth | May 26, 1979 |
| Age (2026) | 47 years old |
| Birthplace | Bengaluru, Karnataka, India |
| Hometown | Bengaluru, Karnataka, India |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Religion | Hinduism |
| Zodiac Sign | Gemini |
| Marital Status | Widower |
| Known For | Kannada Films, Bigg Boss Kannada Season 1 Winner |
Vijay Raghavendra Age
Vijay Raghavendra is 47 years old as of 2026. He was born on May 26, 1979, in Bengaluru, Karnataka, India. He celebrates his birthday every year on May 26.
Vijay Raghavendra Height, Weight & Physical Appearance
| Measurement | Details |
|---|---|
| Height | 5 feet 9 inches (175 cm) |
| Weight | 70 kg (154 lbs) |
| Eye Color | Dark Brown |
| Hair Color | Black |
| Body Measurements | Chest: 40 in, Waist: 30 in, Biceps: 12 in |
Vijay Raghavendra maintains a healthy lifestyle and has remained physically fit throughout his acting career. His charming personality and expressive performances have made him a favorite among Kannada cinema audiences.
Early Life & Education
Vijay Raghavendra was born and raised in Bengaluru, Karnataka, in a well-known family associated with the Kannada film industry. Being surrounded by cinema from childhood inspired him to pursue acting early on. After working in several films as a child artist, he received formal acting training in Chennai to improve his skills.
He completed his graduation before fully focusing on his professional acting career. His combination of practical experience and formal training helped him become a successful lead actor in Kannada cinema.
Career Journey
Vijay Raghavendra began his acting journey in 1982 as a child artist with the Kannada film Chalisuva Modagalu, starring his legendary uncle Dr. Rajkumar. His breakthrough came with Chinnari Mutha (1993) and Kotreshi Kanasu (1994), the latter earning him the National Film Award for Best Child Artist.
After completing his education, he returned as a lead actor with Ninagagi (2002), which became one of the biggest Kannada hits of the year. Over the following years, he appeared in several successful films, including Rishi, Kallarali Hoovagi, Sevanthi Sevanthi, Bhajarangi, Mass Leader, Kismath, and Seetharam Benoy Case No. 18.
Apart from films, Vijay gained nationwide popularity after winning Bigg Boss Kannada Season 1 in 2013. He later worked as a judge on television reality shows such as Drama Juniors, Dance Karnataka Dance, Dancing Champion, and Super Queen. He also made his directorial debut with Kismath.
Vijay Raghavendra Movies
| Year | Movie |
|---|---|
| 1982 | Chalisuva Modagalu |
| 1993 | Chinnari Mutha |
| 1994 | Kotreshi Kanasu |
| 2002 | Ninagagi |
| 2005 | Rishi |
| 2006 | Kallarali Hoovagi |
| 2006 | Sevanthi Sevanthi |
| 2016 | Shivayogi Sri Puttayyajja |
| 2018 | Kismath |
| 2021 | Seetharam Benoy Case No. 18 |
| 2024 | Case of Kondana |
| 2025 | FIR 6 to 6 |
Vijay Raghavendra Family Details
| Relation | Name |
|---|---|
| Father | S. A. Chinne Gowda (Film Producer) |
| Mother | Jayamma |
| Brother | Sriimurali (Actor) |
| Sister | One Elder Sister |
Vijay Raghavendra belongs to one of the most respected families in the Kannada film industry. He is the nephew of the legendary actor Dr. Rajkumar and the cousin of the actors Shiva Rajkumar, Raghavendra Rajkumar, and Puneeth Rajkumar.
Relationship & Wife
Vijay Raghavendra married Spandana, daughter of former ACP B. K. Shivaram, on August 26, 2007. The couple shared a happy married life and welcomed their son, Shourya Raghavendra.
Sadly, Spandana passed away on August 7, 2023, after suffering a cardiac arrest while on a trip to Bangkok. Following her passing, Vijay Raghavendra has continued focusing on his family and professional commitments.
Vijay Raghavendra Net Worth
Vijay Raghavendra’s estimated net worth is around ₹25 Crore (approx.) as of 2026.
His primary sources of income include:
- Acting in Kannada films
- Television reality shows
- Film direction
- Brand promotions
- Public appearances
Social Media Presence
| Platform | Username | Followers |
|---|---|---|
| @raagu.vijay | 783K followers | |
| Vijay Raghavendra | 435K followers | |
| Twitter (X) | @ActorVijayR | Active |
He frequently shares updates about his upcoming films, television shows, and memorable moments with his fans through social media.
Favorite Things
| Category | Favorite |
|---|---|
| Food | Bhindi Rice, Pizza |
| Actors | Shah Rukh Khan, Shreyas Talpade |
| Actress | Tamannaah Bhatia |
| Singer | A. R. Rahman, Shreya Ghoshal |
| Hobbies | Driving, Singing |
| Colors | Grey, Blue, Brown, Red |
| Travel Destinations | Manali, Thailand |
Awards & Achievements
| Year | Award |
|---|---|
| 1994-95 | National Film Award for Best Child Artist – Kotreshi Kanasu |
| 1993-94 | Karnataka State Film Award for Best Child Actor – Chinnari Mutha |
| 2013 | Winner of Bigg Boss Kannada Season 1 |
| 2016 | Karnataka State Film Award for Best Actor – Shivayogi Sri Puttayyajja |
Interesting Facts About Vijay Raghavendra
- Vijay Raghavendra began his acting career at the age of just four.
- He is widely known by the nickname “Chinnari Mutha.”
- Vijay won the National Film Award for Best Child Artist for Kotreshi Kanasu.
- He won the first season of Bigg Boss Kannada in 2013.
- Apart from acting, he has worked as a director, television judge, and radio host.
- Vijay Raghavendra has been associated with the Kannada film industry for over four decades.
Conclusion
Vijay Raghavendra has enjoyed a remarkable career as an actor, director, and television personality in the Kannada entertainment industry. From winning national recognition as a child artist to becoming a successful leading actor and reality show winner, he has consistently showcased his talent and versatility. Despite facing personal hardships, he continues to inspire fans with his resilience, dedication, and passion for cinema.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Vijay Raghavendra?
Vijay Raghavendra is an Indian actor, director, and TV host best known for his work in Kannada films and winning Bigg Boss Kannada Season 1.
How old is Vijay Raghavendra?
Vijay Raghavendra is 47 years old as of 2026.
How tall is Vijay Raghavendra?
Vijay Raghavendra is 1.75 m (5 feet 9 inches) tall.
When is Vijay Raghavendra’s birthday?
Vijay Raghavendra celebrates his birthday (DOB) on May 26 every year.
What is Vijay Raghavendra’s net worth?
Vijay Raghavendra’s estimated net worth is around ₹25 Crore (approx.).
Who are Vijay Raghavendra’s children?
Vijay Raghavendra has one son, Shourya Raghavendra.
What are Vijay Raghavendra’s new movies?
Vijay Raghavendra’s latest films include Grey Games (2024), FIR 6 to 6 (2025), Swapna Mantapa (2025), and the upcoming Second Case of Seetharam (2026).
What is Vijay Raghavendra’s height?
Vijay Raghavendra’s height is 5 feet 9 inches (175 cm).
What is Vijay Raghavendra’s weight?
Vijay Raghavendra weighs 154 lbs (70 kg).
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