Varun Dhawan is one of the most versatile and successful actors in Bollywood. Known for his energetic performances, charming personality, and natural screen presence, Varun has become a favorite among both young and family audiences
He made his acting debut in 2012 with Karan Johar’s Student of the Year and quickly established himself as a leading star with a string of box-office hits.
Over the years, he has shown his talent in romantic comedies, action films, dance dramas, and even intense roles in films like Badlapur and October.
With a career marked by consistent success, Varun Dhawan has not only carried forward his family’s cinematic legacy but also carved his own identity as one of India’s most bankable and admired actors.
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Table of Contents
Varun Dhawan’s Bio
Varun Dhawan is one of the most popular and successful actors in Bollywood today. Born on 24 April 1987, he hails from a well-known film background.
His father is the acclaimed director David Dhawan, and throughout his career, Varun has seamlessly blended mass entertainment with meaningful and critically acclaimed roles.
After graduating in business studies from Nottingham Trent University, Varun returned to India and began his film career as an assistant director for Karan Johar’s 2010 film My Name Is Khan.
Thirchhi nigahe mere dil pe
giraye re bijuria, bijuria Bijuria pic.twitter.com/rqiGDaM9Za— Varun sunny sanskari Dhawan (@Varun_dvn) September 4, 2025
He made his acting debut in 2012 with Johar’s Student of the Year and quickly rose to fame with a string of hits like Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania, Badlapur, ABCD 2, Judwaa 2, Badrinath Ki Dulhania, and October.
From comedies and dance films to intense dramas, Varun Dhawan has shown impressive range. He evolved from a charming romantic lead to an actor who can portray complex, darker emotions with equal finesse.
Along the way, he has consistently delivered box-office successes and earned respect from both industry and audiences.
Stats Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Birth & Education | Born 24 April 1987; Business studies from Nottingham Trent University |
| Industry Entry | Assistant director on My Name Is Khan (2010); acting debut in Student of the Year (2012) |
| Consecutive Hits | 11 straight box-office successes between 2012 and 2018 |
| Top Box-Office Films | ABCD 2, Judwaa 2, Badrinath Ki Dulhania, Dilwale, Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania, Badlapur |
| Total Approx. Collection | ₹530.91 crore (7 films), average ₹75.84 crore per film |
| Verdict Summary | 100% success rate (hits or above) for early films; high hit ratio overall |
| Filmfare Nominations | 5 nominations: Student of the Year, Badlapur, Badrinath Ki Dulhania, October, Bhediya |
| Awards Won | 40 wins from 54 nominations; including BIG Star, IIFA, Screen, Zee Cine, Stardust, Kids’ Choice, etc. |
| Recent Hits | Jugjugg Jeeyo and Bhediya (2022) well received after some critical/commercial challenges |
Career Journey of Varun Dhawan
Early Life and Launch (1987–2012)
Varun Dhawan was born into a Punjabi Hindu film family on 24 April 1987. His father, David Dhawan, is a famous director, and his brother, Rohit Dhawan, is also a filmmaker.
Cousins Punit Malhotra and Kunal Kohli are also linked to the film industry.1
He completed his Higher Secondary Certificate at H.R. College in Mumbai, then studied business in Nottingham, UK.
Upon returning to India, Varun worked under Karan Johar as an assistant director on My Name Is Khan (2010).
Breakthrough and Box-Office Reign (2012–2018)
Varun made his acting debut in Student of the Year (2012). The film opened many doors for him and paved the way for several hits. Between 2012 and 2018, he delivered 11 consecutive successes, an extraordinary feat for any actor.
Memorable hits include:
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Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania (₹72–77 crore) 2
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Badlapur (critically praised role, ₹50–53 crore)
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ABCD 2 (~₹105–106 crore)
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Dilwale (~₹148 crore)
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Judwaa 2 (~₹138–227 crore overall)
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Badrinath Ki Dulhania (~₹115–117 crore)3
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Critical Acclaim and Diversification
Varun surprised critics with nuanced roles in films like October (2018), where he played a sensitive character; the film earned him a Filmfare nomination and critical praise.4
Recent Years (2019–2023)
He faced ups and downs, with Kalank and Street Dancer 3D receiving mixed responses.
However, he bounced back with hits like Jugjugg Jeeyo and Bhediya in 2022. The latter was particularly praised for its unique take.
Recognitions & Awards
Varun has earned acclaim across various award platforms:
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40 wins from 54 nominations
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Filmfare nominations in major categories
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Wins include comic acting accolades and popular awards.5
He also earned a spot in Forbes India Celebrity 100 during the 2010s, confirming his commercial success.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When and where was Varun Dhawan born?
He was born on 24 April 1987 and raised in Mumbai.
2. What did he study?
Varun studied business at Nottingham Trent University in the UK.
3. How did he enter Bollywood?
He started as an assistant director on My Name Is Khan (2010), then debuted as an actor in Student of the Year (2012).
4. What are his biggest hits?
Some of his biggest successes include Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania, ABCD 2, Judwaa 2, Dilwale, and Badrinath Ki Dulhania.
5. Has he done any serious or dramatic roles?
Yes. He was critically lauded for Badlapur and October, the latter earning him a Filmfare nomination.
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6. How successful is he at the box office?
He has a stellar success rate with an average collection of around ₹75 crore per film from his early work. His films have grossed over ₹530 crore in total from seven key releases.
7. What is his award tally?
He has 40 awards and 54 nominations to his credit, including wins from BIG Star, IIFA, Zee Cine, Stardust, Screen Awards, and more.
8. Has he been recognized among top celebrities?
Yes, he featured in Forbes India’s Celebrity 100 list in the 2010s.
9. How has his recent work fared?
Although he saw a mix of results in recent years, films like Jugjugg Jeeyo and Bhediya in 2022 were well-received and marked a revival.
10. What makes Varun Dhawan stand out?
He combines commercial appeal with acting depth. From dance-packed entertainers to heartfelt dramas, his versatility, consistency, and audience connection make him a standout talent.
Conclusion
Varun Dhawan has carved an impressive niche in Bollywood. With a solid background, early successes, and a growing portfolio of diverse performances, he remains one of India’s most bankable and beloved stars.
His journey from assistant director to heartthrob to respected performer highlights his unwavering dedication, adaptability, and charm.
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