Introduction
Ranya Rao is an Indian actress and model known for her work in South Indian cinema, particularly in Kannada and Tamil films. She gained recognition for her performances in movies like Maanikya (2014) and Wagah (2016). With her captivating screen presence and acting skills, Ranya carved a niche for herself in the regional film industry.

Personal Details
Attribute | Details |
Full Name | Ranya Rao |
Date of Birth | May 28, 1991 |
Age | 34 years (as of 2025) |
Birthplace | Chikkamagaluru, Karnataka, India |
Nationality | Indian |
Religion | Hinduism |
Zodiac Sign | Gemini |
Profession | Actress, Model |
Debut Film | Maanikya (2014, Kannada) |
Years Active | 2014 – Present |
Physical Stats
Attribute | Details |
Height | 5 feet 4 inches (163 cm) |
Weight | 55 kg (121 lbs) |
Eye Color | Brown |
Hair Color | Brown |
Body Measurements | 34-26-34 |
Early Life & Background

Born on May 28, 1991, in Chikkamagaluru, Karnataka, Ranya Rao hails from a supportive family that encouraged her artistic pursuits. She completed her schooling in Bangalore and later pursued a degree in engineering. However, her passion for acting led her to the entertainment industry, where she made a notable impact with her debut performance.
Acting Career
Ranya Rao made her acting debut in the Kannada film industry with the movie Maanikya in 2014, directed by Sudeep. She portrayed the character of Manasa, a girl from a wealthy family and the love interest of Sudeep’s character. Her performance received mixed reviews, but it opened doors for her in the film industry.
In 2016, Ranya ventured into Tamil cinema with the film Wagah, where she played the role of Khanum, also known as Kajal, opposite actor Vikram Prabhu. The movie was a romantic action drama set against the backdrop of the India-Pakistan border.
Her subsequent project was Pataki (2017), a Kannada comedy film where she played the role of Sangeetha, a journalist and the love interest of a police officer portrayed by Ganesh. The film showcased her versatility as an actress and contributed to her growing popularity in the Kannada film industry.
Filmography
Year | Film Name | Language | Character |
2014 | Maanikya | Kannada | Manasa |
2016 | Wagah | Tamil | Khanum/Kajal |
2017 | Pataki | Kannada | Sangeetha |
Affairs & Personal Life Bio
Ranya Rao has maintained a relatively private personal life. In November 2024, she married Jatin Hukkeri, an architect. The couple’s relationship remained out of the public eye until their recent involvement in a legal controversy. Ranya is also the stepdaughter of senior IPS officer K. Ramachandra Rao, who serves as the Director-General of Police at Karnataka Police Housing Corporation.
Controversy
On March 4, 2025, Ranya Rao and her husband, Jatin Hukkeri, were arrested by the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) at Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport on charges of gold smuggling. The couple was found in possession of 14.8 kilograms of gold, valued at over ₹12 crore. Investigations revealed that Ranya had made multiple trips to Dubai in a short span, raising suspicions about her involvement in smuggling activities. She confessed to carrying 17 gold bars and disclosed details about her international travels, including visits to Europe, America, South Asia, Dubai, and Saudi Arabia.
Net Worth & Earnings
Attribute | Details |
Net Worth | Approximately $1 million |
Income Source | Acting, Modeling |
Per Movie Fee | ₹20-30 Lakhs |
Luxury Assets | Properties, Vehicles |
Ranya Rao accumulated wealth through her acting career and modeling assignments. Her net worth is estimated to be around $1 million, with earnings from films, endorsements, and personal investments.
Awards & Achievements
While Ranya Rao has not received major awards, her performances have been appreciated by audiences and critics alike. Her role in Maanikya garnered attention and established her as a promising actress in the Kannada film industry.
Social Media Presence
Ranya maintains an active presence on social media platforms, where she shares updates about her projects, personal life, and engages with her fans.
Platform | Handle |
@ranya_rao | |
@RanyaRao | |
Ranya Rao Official |
Conclusion
Ranya Rao’s journey in the South Indian film industry showcases her talent and dedication as an actress. Despite recent controversies, her contributions to Kannada and Tamil cinema remain noteworthy.