CHENNAI, India, Sept. 16, 2025 — Indian actor and filmmaker Dhanush recently shared a nostalgic story from his childhood, claiming he sold flowers to afford idlis, a popular South Indian dish. The revelation, made during a promotional event, has stirred mixed reactions online, with some questioning the authenticity of his account given his familial background.
Recalling his early years, Dhanush stated, “As a kid, I always craved idlis every single day, but I couldn’t afford them. We’d get a little over ₹2 each… Nothing can beat the satisfaction and taste that is gotten out of eating food from our own hard-earned money.” The anecdote was meant to highlight his humble beginnings and the value of earning one’s own livelihood.
However, the claim has faced scrutiny on social media platforms, particularly on X, where users pointed out that Dhanush is the son of well-known Tamil film director and producer Kasthuri Raja. Critics questioned the plausibility of his story, suggesting that his family’s prominence in the film industry casts doubt on the narrative of financial struggle. “How could the son of a successful director need to sell flowers for idlis?” one user posted on X, echoing sentiments shared by others.
Supporters of Dhanush, however, defended the actor, arguing that personal hardships can exist regardless of family background. Some fans praised his story as a testament to his grounded nature, with one X user commenting, “Dhanush’s story shows even privileged kids can learn the value of hard work.”
Dhanush, a National Award-winning actor known for films like Aadukalam and Raanjhanaa, has not responded to the online debate. His comments were part of a broader discussion about his upcoming projects, including his directorial venture *Raayan* and a new film announced this week.
The controversy underscores the polarized nature of social media discourse, where celebrity narratives are often met with both admiration and skepticism. As the debate continues, Dhanush’s story has sparked wider conversations about authenticity, privilege, and the universal appeal of humble beginnings.
