Early Life and Background
Bhanupriya was born on January 15, 1966, in Rajahmundry, Andhra Pradesh, India. Her birth name is Manga Bhama, but she adopted the screen name Bhanupriya when she entered the film industry. She showed a keen interest in classical dance and acting from a young age. Encouraged by her family, she trained in various dance forms, which later became a defining aspect of her performances in films.
Personal Details About Bhanupriya
Full – Name | Manga Bhama |
Stage Name | Bhanupriya |
Date of Birth | January 15, 1966 |
Age | 58 years (as of 2024) |
Birthplace | Rajahmundry, Andhra Pradesh, India |
Nationality | Indian |
Zodiac Sign | Capricorn |
Profession | Actress, Classical Dancer |
Years Active | 1983 – Present |
Height | 5 feet 4 inches (163 cm) |
Weight | 55 kg (121 lbs) |
Eye Color | Brown |
Hair Color | Black |
Marital Status | Divorced |
Ex-Spouse | Adarsh Kaushal |
Children | Abhinaya Kaushal |
Net Worth | Approximately $5 million |

She grew up in a culturally rich environment and pursued her education before stepping into the film industry. Bhanupriya’s graceful demeanor and expressive performances quickly made her a sought-after actress in the 1980s and 1990s.

Career in Films
Bhanupriya made her acting debut in 1983 with the Telugu film Sitaara, directed by Vamsy. The movie was a huge success and won the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Telugu. Her performance was widely appreciated, marking the beginning of a stellar career.
Following her debut, she quickly became one of the leading actresses in South Indian cinema. She worked predominantly in Telugu and Tamil films, with occasional roles in Kannada, Malayalam, and Hindi movies.
Rise to Fame
During the mid-1980s and early 1990s, Bhanupriya established herself as a leading actress with numerous successful films. Her roles in movies like Swarnakamalam (1988), Aararo Aariraro (1991), and Azhagan (1991) showcased her immense talent. She was particularly noted for her ability to blend classical dance with acting, which added a unique charm to her performances.
Her collaborations with top actors like Chiranjeevi, Kamal Haasan, Rajinikanth, Mohanlal, and Mammootty further cemented her position in the industry.
Bollywood Career
Bhanupriya Net Worth also ventured into Bollywood and appeared in notable Hindi films such as Dosti Dushmani (1986), Marte Dam Tak (1987), and Tamacha (1988). Although her presence in Bollywood was limited compared to her South Indian career, she managed to leave a lasting impression.
Later Career and Comeback
In the late 1990s, Bhanupriya reduced her on-screen appearances after getting married. However, she made a strong comeback in the 2000s, taking up supporting roles in films and television series. Some of her notable performances in recent years include her role in Malli Raava (2017) and Ammammagarillu (2018).
Apart from films, Bhanupriya has also worked in television, appearing in serials and reality shows. Her experience and grace continue to be appreciated by audiences across generations.
Awards and Recognition
Bhanupriya has won several prestigious awards throughout her career for her outstanding performances. Some of the notable awards include:
- Nandi Award for Best Actress (Swarnakamalam – 1988)
- Tamil Nadu State Film Award for Best Actress (Aararo Aariraro – 1991)
- Filmfare Award South for Best Actress
- Kalaimamani Award from the Government of Tamil Nadu for her contributions to the arts
Her excellence in classical dance and acting has made her a respected figure in the industry, with numerous lifetime achievement honors.
Personal Life and Affairs
Bhanupriya married Adarsh Kaushal in 1998, and the couple moved to the United States. However, their marriage ended in divorce, and she later returned to India with her daughter, Abhinaya Kaushal.
Despite the ups and downs in her personal life, Bhanupriya remained dedicated to her passion for acting. She has always maintained a private life, keeping her personal matters away from media controversies.
Filmography
Major Films Across Different Languages
Language- | Film -Name | Year | Co-stars |
Telugu | Sitaara | 1983 | Suman |
Telugu | Swarnakamalam | 1988 | Venkatesh |
Telugu | Aapadbandhavudu | 1992 | Chiranjeevi |
Telugu | Malli Raava | 2017 | Sumanth |
Tamil | Aararo Aariraro | 1991 | Prabhu |
Tamil | Azhagan | 1991 | Mammootty |
Tamil | Vedham Pudhithu | 1987 | Sathyaraj |
Tamil | Kaathal Geetham | 1992 | Vikram |
Hindi | Dosti Dushmani | 1986 | Jeetendra, Rajinikanth |
Hindi | Marte Dam Tak | 1987 | Raaj Kumar, Govinda |
Hindi | Tamacha | 1988 | Jeetendra, Anil Kapoor |
Hindi | Suryaa | 1989 | Raaj Kumar, Amitabh Bachchan |
Malayalam | Rajasilpi | 1992 | Mohanlal |
Malayalam | Chandamama | 1999 | Mukesh |
Malayalam | Makaramanju | 2011 | Santhosh Sivan |
Kannada | Samara | 1995 | Shivarajkumar |
Kannada | Om Namah Shivaya | 1999 | Vishnuvardhan |
Bhanupriya has worked in over 150 films, spanning Telugu, Tamil, Hindi, Malayalam, and Kannada cinema. Her impact on the film industry has been profound, especially in South Indian cinema.
Her ability to portray a wide range of characters, from traditional roles to modern, bold portrayals, showcases her versatility as an actress. She remains one of the most respected and celebrated actresses in Indian film history.
Net Worth and Lifestyle
Bhanupriya has amassed significant wealth from her acting career. Her estimated net worth is around $5 million. She owns properties in India and the United States and has invested in real estate.
Even though she no longer plays lead roles, she continues to earn from her work in films, television, and endorsements. Her elegant lifestyle reflects her status as a legendary actress.
Legacy and Influence
Bhanupriya remains an inspiration to aspiring actors, especially those with a passion for classical dance and cinema. Her ability to seamlessly blend both art forms has set a benchmark in Indian cinema. She is often regarded as one of the finest actresses of her time, with a legacy that continues to inspire the younger generation.
Her contribution to Indian cinema, particularly in South Indian films, has left an indelible mark, making her an evergreen actress in the hearts of millions.
Conclusion
Bhanupriya’s journey in the entertainment industry is a story of talent, perseverance, and passion. From being a leading actress in the 80s and 90s to playing significant supporting roles in recent years, she has remained relevant in the industry. Her exceptional acting skills, coupled with her classical dance expertise, make her one of the most respected actresses in Indian cinema.
Her dedication to her craft and her ability to adapt to changing times continue to earn her admiration from audiences and filmmakers alike. Whether it is her early performances or her recent appearances, Bhanupriya remains a name synonymous with grace and excellence in Indian cinema.