Yash

Profile Overview

Yash (pronounced [/yah-sh/]; born Naveen Kumar Gowda, 8 January 1986) is an Indian actor and producer who works in Kannada films. Known for his work in mass hero films, he is referred to as "Rocking Star" in the media. One of the highest-paid actors of Kannada cinema, Yash is a recipient of several accolades including three Filmfare Awards South and five SIIMA Awards.
Yash began his career with appearances in several television series in the 2000s. He made his film debut in 2007 with Jambada Hudugi. The 2008 romantic drama Moggina Manasu, for which he received the Filmfare Award for Best Supporting Actor, proved to be a breakthrough role for Yash.
His first film in a leading role, Rocky (2008), was poorly received by critics and a box office flop. Yash went on to establish himself as a leading actor of Kannada cinema with Googly, Raja Huli (both 2013), Gajakesari, Mr & Mrs Ramachari (both 2014), Masterpiece (2015) and Santhu Straight Forward (2016), all of which became commercial successes. The pan-India success of Prashanth Neel's KGF duology which consists of KGF: Chapter 1 (2018) and KGF: Chapter 2 (2022), helped Yash attain nationwide recognition. The former earned him the Filmfare Award for Best Actor – Kannada and the latter ranks as the highest-grossing Kannada film worldwide.
Yash is a philanthropist and promotes social causes through the Yasho Marga Foundation, a charitable foundation established by him and his wife. In addition to acting, he is a prominent celebrity endorser of several brands and products. He is married to actress Radhika Pandit, with whom he has two children.