Gulshan Devaiah is one of modern Indian cinema’s most versatile actors. He has carved a niche by choosing bold parts in mainstream films and edgy independent projects
He moves easily between supporting roles and leads. He has won praise for playing complex characters. He is known for his intensity and for taking risks on screen.
This article covers his life, education, early struggles, breakthrough moments, notable films and web series, awards, recognitions, personal life, a stats table for quick facts and frequently asked questions.
Also Read: Esha Deol’s Bio, Age, Family, Movies, Husband, Career & More
Table of Contents
Gulshan Devaiah’s Biography
Early life and background
Gulshan Devaiah was born Kambeyanda Devaiah Gulshan on 28 May 1978 in Bengaluru, Karnataka. He comes from a Kodava family.
He completed his schooling in Bengaluru and later studied design at the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT).
Before turning to acting full time he worked in the fashion industry for nearly a decade. He also taught fashion courses in Bangalore.
These early experiences gave him a disciplined work ethic and a creative foundation that he later used in acting.1
A layer that shows he’s deeds are evil but he’s not. https://t.co/y8LWJAH7R6
— “SuperGullu” (@gulshandevaiah) October 9, 2025
How he moved from fashion to film
Gulshan’s first love was theatre. While working in fashion he continued to act in English language theatre in Bangalore. That stage experience opened doors and gave him the craft and confidence to try films.
He moved to Mumbai to explore bigger opportunities. His first notable screen role came in Anurag Kashyap’s That Girl in Yellow Boots (2010).
The film played at international festivals and put him on the map as a performer to watch.
Breakthrough and Early Career Highlights
Gulshan got major attention with Shaitan (2011). The film was a gritty crime thriller and critics praised his performance as Karan “KC” Chaudhary.
That role led to several award nominations and built his credibility as an actor who could handle dark, layered parts. After Shaitan he continued to balance offbeat projects and bigger commercial films.
He took on antagonistic roles in movies like Hate Story and earned critical notice in festival films such as Peddlers.
Turning mainstream while staying experimental
Gulshan has a pattern few actors manage. He appears in mainstream blockbusters and still takes challenging independent projects.
He had a memorable part in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela. He also acted in anthology and genre films such as Ghost Stories.
He keeps choosing roles that let him experiment and show range. Over time he built a reputation as a dependable performer who brings commitment to every role.
Career High Points and Recent Recognition
A major highlight came with Mard Ko Dard Nahi Hota (2018) where Gulshan played twin brothers in two very distinct avatars.
His double role won him a Screen Award for Best Supporting Actor and a Filmfare nomination for Best Supporting Actor.
In 2023 he gained widespread streaming attention with Dahaad, a crime thriller web series that earned critical praise and festival attention. Dahaad also brought him new fans and fresh acknowledgements for his subtle, measured performance.
Style and Screen Presence
Gulshan is known for an economy of expression. He can be quiet and menacing. He can be flamboyant and larger than life.
Directors value his ability to inhabit characters completely. He prepares physically and mentally for roles. He often changes body language, voice and posture to create distinct characters.
This craft makes him a natural fit for roles that require transformation. Critics and co-stars describe him as methodical and generous on set.
Also Read: Urmila Matondkar’s Bio, Age, Career, Movies, Family & More
Notable Films and Series
-
That Girl in Yellow Boots (2010) — early festival presence.
-
Shaitan (2011) — breakthrough dramatic turn.
-
Hate Story (2012) — controversial and high profile lead antagonist.
-
Peddlers (2012) — premiered at Cannes and highlighted his indie credentials.
-
Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela (2013) — mainstream blockbuster role.
-
Hunterrr (2015) — a bold, adult comedy that worked commercially.
-
Mard Ko Dard Nahi Hota (2018) — acclaimed double role, awards recognition.
-
Dahaad (2023) — streaming crime drama that earned praise and award nominations.
This mix shows his range across festival cinema, mainstream releases and digital series.
Awards and Nominations
Gulshan’s performances have earned nominations from major Indian award bodies and wins at selective awards.
His role in Mard Ko Dard Nahi Hota won him the Screen Award for Best Supporting Actor and secured a Filmfare nomination.
Over the years he has also been recognized for ensemble and debut categories for his early work. These accolades underline his steady climb from supporting player to a respected character lead.
Personal Life
Gulshan keeps his personal life low key. He was married to Greek actress Kallirroi Tziafeta in 2012. Media reports have noted ups and downs in his personal life, but he generally prefers to talk about craft rather than gossip.
He remains close to his Bangalore roots and often speaks about the influence of theatre and design on his acting.
Stats table
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full name | Kambeyanda Devaiah Gulshan |
| Date of birth | 28 May 1978. |
| Birthplace | Bengaluru, Karnataka, India. |
| Education | Graduate of National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT). |
| Years active | 2010–present (screen). |
| Number of feature films (listed) | 24 films including upcoming and unreleased titles. |
| Notable web series | Afsos, Duranga, Dahaad, Guns & Gulaabs. |
| Major awards | Screen Award winner for Mard Ko Dard Nahi Hota; multiple nominations including Filmfare. |
| Spouse | Kallirroi Tziafeta (married 2012, publicly noted personal history). |
Career timeline
-
2004 — Early small screen appearance in Dil Ne Jise Apna Kahaa (listed).
-
2010 — Screen role in That Girl in Yellow Boots. Festivals followed.
-
2011 — Critical notice for Shaitan. Award nominations followed.
-
2012–2015 — Mix of leads and supporting roles in both indie and mainstream films.
-
2018 — Double role in Mard Ko Dard Nahi Hota. Major awards recognition.
-
2020s — Strong presence on streaming platforms. Dahaad stands out in 2023.
View this post on Instagram
FAQ’s
Q1: What is Gulshan Devaiah’s date of birth?
A: He was born on 28 May 1978.
Q2: Where is Gulshan Devaiah from?
A: He is from Bengaluru, Karnataka. He belongs to a Kodava family.
Q3: What did he study?
A: He studied design at the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT).
Q4: Which film gave him his breakthrough?
A: Shaitan (2011) brought him early critical acclaim and award nominations.
Q5: Has he won any major awards?
A: He won the Screen Award for Best Supporting Actor for Mard Ko Dard Nahi Hota. He has also been nominated for Filmfare awards.
Q6: Does he work in web series?
A: Yes. He has starred in several streaming shows including Afsos, Duranga, Dahaad, Guns & Gulaabs and more. Dahaad in particular received critical attention.
Q7: What kind of roles does he prefer?
A: He prefers characters that allow experimentation. He often chooses morally complex parts or roles that require physical transformation.
Q8: What should a new fan watch first?
A: For range watch Shaitan for early intensity, Mard Ko Dard Nahi Hota for comic and physical range, and Dahaad for streaming drama.
Conclusion
Gulshan Devaiah is a modern example of an actor who refuses to be pigeonholed. From theatre and fashion to indie festivals and mainstream cinema, he has built a career that balances craft and visibility.
His performances continue to attract critical praise and audience curiosity. Whether in a streaming thriller or a bold independent film, he keeps delivering layered and committed work.
As streaming content grows and as Indian cinema embraces more nuanced storytelling, actors like Gulshan will remain essential.
Also Read: Namrata Shirodkar’s Bio, Family, Career, Movies, Husband & More
