
Ranganathan Madhavan (born 1 June 1970) is an Indian actor, writer and film producer. He has been described as one of the few actors in India who is able to achieve pan-Indian appeal, appearing in films from seven different languages. Madhavan has received two Filmfare Awards, an award from the Tamil Nadu State Film Awards alongside recognition and nominations from other organisations. Madhavan began his acting career with television guest appearances, including a role on the Zee TV prime-time soap opera Banegi Apni Baat in 1996. After appearing in commercials and in small roles, he later gained recognition in the Tamil film industry through Mani Ratnam's successful romance film Alaipayuthey (2000).
In addition to his acting career, Madhavan has worked as a writer on his films, hosted television programmes and has been a prominent celebrity endorser for brands and products.[5] He has also worked as a film producer, first making Evano Oruvan with Leukos Films, before setting up Tricolour Films to produce Saala Khadoos (2016). Madhavan is noted for his philanthropic activities and promotes various causes such as environment, health and education. He is particularly vocal about the protection of animals and was awarded PETA's Person of the Year recognition in 2012.

Dhurandhar: The Revenge
2026 · as Ajay Sanyal

3 Idiots
2009 · as Farhan Qureshi

Dhurandhar
2025 · as Ajay Sanyal

Yavarum Nalam
2009 · as Manohar

De De Pyaar De 2
2025 · as Rakesh Khurana

4 Idiots
as Farhan Qureshi

Guru
2007 · as Shyam Saxena

Manmadhan Ambu
2010 · as Madanagopal

Lesa Lesa
2003 · as Deva Narayanan (Guest Appearance)

Nala Damayanthi
2003 · as Ramji Narayanaswami Iyer

Shaitaan
2024 · as Vanraj Kashyap

Jodi Breakers
2012 · as Sid

Rang De Basanti
2006 · as Ajay Rathod

Circle

Minnale
2001 · as Rajesh Shivakumar

Zero
2018 · as Kartik Srinivasan

Paarthale Paravasam
2001 · as Dr. Madhava

Ennavale
2000 · as James Vasanthan