Ajay Devgn is one of the most versatile and respected actors in Bollywood. With a career spanning over three decades, he has successfully established himself as an action hero, intense dramatic performer, and skilled comedian
Known for his unique screen presence and understated style, Devgn has acted in more than 100 films and won numerous awards, including multiple National Film Awards and Filmfare Awards.
Beyond acting, he is a producer, director, and recipient of the Padma Shri, one of India’s highest civilian honors.
His journey from his debut in Phool Aur Kaante to acclaimed films like Zakhm, Singham, and Drishyam reflects his ability to adapt and remain relevant in the ever-changing landscape of Indian cinema.
This article presents his life, major films, achievements, personal details, statistics, and challenges.
Also Read: Radhika Apte’s Bio, Movies, Career, Family, Net Worth & More
Table of Contents
Who Is Ajay Devgn?
Biography of a Bollywood Icon
Ajay Devgn, born Vishal Veeru Devgan on 2 April 1969, is one of the most enduring and versatile actors in Hindi cinema.
Over a career spanning more than three decades, Devgn has earned acclaim not just for his action roles but for intense dramas, comedies, and films of social relevance.
He has also taken roles behind the camera as producer and director. Devgn’s life story reflects both commitment to craft and ability to adapt as the film industry changes.
Aaj ki taaza khabar, brought to you by the gang, jo ab jald hi lootne aa rahe hain aapka dil…aur dimaag! 😉#Dhamaal4 arrives in cinemas on Eid 2026💥 @Riteishd @ArshadWarsi @jaavedjaaferi @imsanjaimishra #UpendraLimaye #AnjaliAnand @iamsanjeeda @ravikishann #EshaGupta… pic.twitter.com/VvBXSF7nY5
— Ajay Devgn (@ajaydevgn) September 6, 2025
Early Life & Background
-
He was born in New Delhi, India, to Veeru Devgan, a noted action choreographer and director, and Veena Devgan.1
-
He has roots in a Punjabi Hindu family originally from Amritsar.
-
His schooling was in Mumbai, and he attended Mithibai College for further studies.
Name Change, Early Career
-
His given name was Vishal Veeru Devgan, but he adopted the stage name Ajay Devgn. In 2009, he officially changed the spelling of his surname from “Devgan” to “Devgn” for numerological reasons.
-
He made his acting debut in 1991 with Phool Aur Kaante. The action romance film marked him as a fresh face in Bollywood. He also performed a striking stunt in this film his entrance involved balancing on two motorcycles.
-
Phool Aur Kaante earned him the Filmfare Award for Best Male Debut.
Rise to Prominence
In the 1990s, Ajay Devgn displayed range in choices:
-
He acted in action films like Jigar (1992) and Diljale (1996).
-
He also starred in romantic or family-oriented dramas like Ishq (1997), Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam (1999), and Pyaar To Hona Hi Tha (1998).
-
Critical acclaim came with Zakhm (1998), for which he won the National Film Award for Best Actor.
Mid-Career to Later Years: Evolution & Diverse Roles
-
In 2000, he founded his own production company, Ajay Devgn FFilms.
-
He began directing with U Me Aur Hum in 2008. 2
-
In the 2010s, he had several major hits: Once Upon A Time in Mumbaai, Golmaal 3, Raajneeti, Singham, Bol Bachchan, Son of Sardaar. These films showed his ability to work in both commercial masala cinema and more serious stories.
-
Films like Drishyam (2015), Tanhaji: The Unsung Warrior (2020) reaffirmed his acting strength in serious, dramatic roles.3
Personal Life
-
He married actress Kajol on 24 February 1999.4
-
They have two children: a daughter, Nysa (born 2003), and a son, Yug (born 2010).
-
He practices Shaiva Hinduism, wears rudraksha beads, and has often acknowledged the importance of spirituality in his life.
Awards & Honours
-
He has won 4 National Film Awards.
-
He has won 4 Filmfare Awards.
-
He received Padma Shri in 2016 from the Government of India.
Statistics & Facts Table
Here is a table of key statistics and facts about Ajay Devgn as of 2025:
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full name | Vishal Veeru Devgan (now spelled Ajay Devgn) |
| Date of birth | 2 April 1969 |
| Place of birth | New Delhi, India |
| Family background | Father: Veeru Devgan; Mother: Veena Devgan |
| Children | Two (daughter Nysa, son Yug) |
| Marriage | Married to Kajol since 1999 |
| Years active | Since 1991 |
| Debut film | Phool Aur Kaante (1991) |
| Film count | Over 100 films (actor) |
| National Awards | 4 wins |
| Filmfare Awards | 4 wins |
| Padma Shri | Received in 2016 |
Highlights of Acting Style & Legacy
-
Ajay Devgn is known for being intense and understated. He often plays characters who are quiet, reflective, strong but not flamboyant.
-
He performs many of his own stunts, especially in action roles.
-
His ability to shift between genres action, drama, comedy has allowed him to stay relevant across changing trends in Bollywood.
Challenges & Low Points
-
Not all his films have succeeded. Some commercial failures have tested his resolve.
-
Box office competition, changing audience preferences, and the rise of OTT platforms have meant he has had to adapt.
-
Direction and production bring their own risks; being behind the scenes is not always as certain as acting.
Recent Work & Current Status
-
In recent years, he has taken on roles in Drishyam 2, Runway 34, RRR (extended cameo), Thank God, Azaad etc.
-
His production house continues to operate. He is involved in both mainstream blockbusters and more niche or content-driven films.
-
He remains one of the better paid actors in Bollywood and continues to maintain a strong fan base.
View this post on Instagram
FAQ’s
-
What is Ajay Devgn’s height and physical profile?
He is about 5 feet 10 inches tall. -
Why did he change his surname spelling from Devgan to Devgn?
For numerological reasons. The change was made official around 2009. -
How many National Awards has he won and for which films?
He has won 4 National Film Awards. Notable among them: Zakhm (1998) and Tanhaji: The Unsung Warrior (2020). -
Who is his wife and do they have children?
He is married to actress Kajol since 1999. They have a daughter, Nysa, and a son, Yug. -
Has he directed films?
Yes. His directorial debut was U Me Aur Hum in 2008. He has directed other projects since. -
Which was his first big commercial success?
His breakout was Phool Aur Kaante in 1991. Over the years, movies like Singham, Golmaal 3, Once Upon a Time in Mumbaai also marked big commercial successes. -
Has he been honored by the government?
Yes, he received the Padma Shri award in 2016. -
What production company does he own?
He owns Ajay Devgn FFilms, which produces many of his films and others.
Conclusion
Ajay Devgn’s story is one of persistence, reinvention, and dedication to cinema. From his early days as a newcomer performing daring stunts to becoming a celebrated actor, producer, and director, he has consistently proven his talent and versatility.
His career is marked not only by commercial success but also by powerful performances that earned critical acclaim. Today, he continues to inspire millions of fans and younger actors with his professionalism and passion for storytelling.
With an impressive legacy and many projects still ahead, Ajay Devgn remains a true icon of Bollywood whose contribution to Indian cinema will be remembered for generations.
Also Read: Siddhant Chaturvedi’s Bio, Age, Career, Family, Net Worth & More
