Prabhu Deva, often referred to as the “Michael Jackson of India,” is a name synonymous with dance, choreography, and direction in the Indian film industry. His exceptional talent and versatility have earned him a place among the most celebrated figures in Indian cinema. Over the years, he has mesmerized audiences with his electrifying dance moves and has made significant contributions as a choreographer, actor, and director. This article delves into the life and career of Prabhu Deva, offering a comprehensive overview of his journey in the world of entertainment.
Personal Details
| Full Name | Prabhu Deva Sundaram |
| Date of Birth | April 3, 1973 |
| Place of Birth | Mysore, Karnataka, India |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Profession | Choreographer, Actor, Director, Dancer |
| Years Active | 1988 – Present |
| Parents | Mugur Sundar (father), Mahadevamma (mother) |
| Spouse | Ramlatha (1995-2011, divorced) |
| Children | Vishal Deva, Rishi Raghavendra Deva, Aditya Deva |
Biography
Prabhu Deva’s name is synonymous with innovation and excellence in dance. Born on April 3, 1973, in Mysore, Karnataka, Prabhu Deva inherited a passion for dance from his father, Mugur Sundar, a well-known choreographer in South Indian cinema. His journey from a young dance enthusiast to a celebrated choreographer, actor, and director is a testament to his dedication and talent.
Early Life and Age
Prabhu Deva spent his early years in Chennai, where he grew up in a family deeply rooted in the film industry. His father, Mugur Sundar, was a prominent dance master, which greatly influenced Prabhu’s inclination towards dance. Prabhu Deva began learning Bharatanatyam from the age of seven, under the tutelage of Dharmaraj and Udupi Lakshminarayanan. His training in classical dance forms laid a strong foundation for his later work in film choreography.
As of June 2024, Prabhu Deva is 51 years old. Despite his age, he continues to inspire new generations of dancers and filmmakers with his boundless energy and creativity.
Career
Prabhu Deva’s career in the entertainment industry is marked by his versatility and innovation. He made his debut as a choreographer in the Tamil film “Vetri Vizha” (1989), and his distinctive style quickly caught the attention of audiences and filmmakers alike. His breakthrough came with the song “Chikku Bukku Rayile” from the film “Gentleman” (1993), which became a massive hit.
As a dancer, Prabhu Deva’s agility and innovative choreography set him apart. He has choreographed for over 100 films across various Indian languages, earning numerous awards and accolades for his work. His dance sequences are known for their complexity, energy, and unique style, which often incorporate elements of hip-hop, classical Indian dance, and contemporary moves.
In addition to his work as a choreographer, Prabhu Deva has also enjoyed a successful acting career. He made his acting debut in the film “Indhu” (1994), which was well-received by audiences. Over the years, he has acted in numerous films in Tamil, Telugu, Hindi, and Kannada, showcasing his versatility as a performer.
Prabhu Deva’s talents are not limited to dancing and acting; he has also made a significant impact as a director. He made his directorial debut with the Telugu film “Nuvvostanante Nenoddantana” (2005), which was a commercial and critical success. He followed this with successful films like “Pokkiri” (2007) in Tamil and “Wanted” (2009) in Hindi, further establishing his reputation as a skilled director.
Spouse
Prabhu Deva married Ramlatha in 1995, and the couple had three sons: Vishal Deva, Rishi Raghavendra Deva, and Aditya Deva. Unfortunately, their eldest son, Vishal, passed away due to cancer in 2008, which was a significant personal tragedy for the family. Prabhu Deva and Ramlatha divorced in 2011, following which he has largely kept his personal life away from the public eye.
Conclusion
Prabhu Deva’s journey in the Indian film industry is nothing short of extraordinary. From a young dancer inspired by his father’s legacy to becoming one of the most influential choreographers, actors, and directors, his contributions have left an indelible mark on Indian cinema. His work continues to inspire and entertain millions, solidifying his status as a true icon in the world of dance and film.
FAQ
- What is Prabhu Deva’s real name? Prabhu Deva’s real name is Prabhu Deva Sundaram.
- How many films has Prabhu Deva choreographed for? Prabhu Deva has choreographed for over 100 films across various Indian languages.
- When did Prabhu Deva start his career in the film industry? Prabhu Deva began his career as a choreographer in 1989 with the Tamil film “Vetri Vizha.”
- Has Prabhu Deva won any awards for his work? Yes, Prabhu Deva has won numerous awards for his choreography, acting, and direction, including National Film Awards and Filmfare Awards.
- How old is Prabhu Deva? As of June 2024, Prabhu Deva is 51 years old.
- Who was Prabhu Deva married to? Prabhu Deva was married to Ramlatha from 1995 until their divorce in 2011.
- Does Prabhu Deva have children? Yes, Prabhu Deva has three sons: Vishal Deva, Rishi Raghavendra Deva, and Aditya Deva.
