Monish Nagaraj

Biography:

Monish Nagaraj, renowned by his screen name Rishi, is a prominent Indian actor primarily active in the Kannada film industry. Prior to his foray into cinema, Rishi, an engineering graduate, displayed a passion for acting through his involvement in various theatre productions. His breakthrough came with the 2017 blockbuster film “Operation Alamelamma.”

Born in Bangalore and raised in Mysore, Karnataka, Rishi’s father, K. C. Nagaraj, served as a bank official in Kaveri Grameena Bank, while his mother, Anala Nagaraj, is a homemaker. Initially named Monish Nagaraj, Rishi pursued his early education at St Joseph’s Primary School in Mysore and completed his Pre-University course at Marimallappa’s College, Mysore. He later attended Sri Jayachamarajendra College of Engineering, Mysore, graduating with a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering.

During his engineering days, Rishi discovered his passion for acting and actively participated in various amateur theatre groups in Mysore. He took charge of the dramatics team at his college and also worked as a Radio Jockey. His journey into the entertainment industry began with T. N. Seetharam’s “Mahaparva,” followed by a successful stint in the television series “Anuroopa” on Star Suvarna. His portrayal in the serial earned him consecutive Best Actor awards at the Star Suvarna Parivar awards.

In 2016, director Suni, known for “Simple Agi Ondh Love Story,” cast Rishi in the thriller comedy film “Operation Alamelamma,” marking a turning point in his career. The film emerged as a major blockbuster in 2017, achieving international releases in countries like the USA and Europe. Rishi received widespread acclaim for his debut lead role as Purmy, a vegetable vendor.