{{Short description|Indian actress (born 1981)}} {{pp-semi-vandalism|small=yes}} {{Use dmy dates|date=March 2022}} {{Use Indian English|date=August 2021}} {{Infobox person | name = Anushka Shetty | image = Anushka at the trailer launch of Baahubali (cropped).jpg | caption = Shetty in 2015 | birth_name = Sweety Shetty<ref>{{cite web|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/Sweety-is-a-boringperson-thats-why-I-become-Anushka-for-my-fans-Anushka-Shetty/articleshow/50043350.cms"Sweety|title=is a boring person, that's why I become Anushka for my fans: Anushka Shetty|website=indiatimes.com|access-date=30 June 2017}}</ref> | birth_date = {{Birth date and age|df=y|1981|11|7}}<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dnaindia.com/entertainment/report-baahubali-actress-anushka-shetty-celebrates-her-34th-birthday-2143042"'Baahubali'|title=actress Anushka Shetty celebrates her 34th birthday!|website=dnaindia.com|access-date=30 June 2017}}</ref> | birth_place = Mangaluru, Dakshina Kannada, Karnataka, India | occupation = Actress | years_active = 2005–present | works = Full list | awards = Full list | honours = Kalaimamani (2010) | alma_mater = Mount Carmel College, Bangalore | education = Bachelor of Computer Applications | signature = Anushka Shetty transperenet-Signature.png | signature_size = 100px }}
'''Sweety Shetty''' (born 7 November 1981), known professionally as ''' Anushka Shetty''', is an Indian actress known for her works in Telugu and Tamil cinema. With a career spanning over two decades as a lead actress in a variety of roles, Shetty is popularly referred to as "Queen of South Indian cinema" in the media.<ref name=":1" /><ref>{{cite web |title= When ‘South Queen’ Anushka Shetty upped the hotness quotient |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/throwback-thursday-when-south-queen-anushka-shetty-upped-the-hotness-quotient-in-these-water-pics/photostory/77765901.cms |url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240222154831/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/throwback-thursday-when-south-queen-anushka-shetty-upped-the-hotness-quotient-in-these-water-pics/photostory/77765901.cms |archive-date=22 Feb 2024 |access-date=31 March 2026|publisher=Entertainment Times}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title= Anushka Shetty- Reigning Queen of South Indian movies Completes 15 Years in the industry|url=https://thetelugufilmnagar.com/anushka-shetty-reigning-queen-of-south-indian-movies-completes-15-years-in-the-industry |url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240624191303/https://thetelugufilmnagar.com/anushka-shetty-reigning-queen-of-south-indian-movies-completes-15-years-in-the-industry/ |archive-date=24 June 2024 |access-date=31 March 2026|publisher=Telugu Filmnagar}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title= Gorgeous and Sweety Queen Of South India|url=https://www.eastcoastdaily.in/2018/02/26/gorgeous-and-sweety-queen-of-south-india-devasena-aka-anushka-shetty.html |url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180301024231/https://www.eastcoastdaily.in/2018/02/26/gorgeous-and-sweety-queen-of-south-india-devasena-aka-anushka-shetty.html |archive-date=1 March 2018 |access-date=31 March 2026|publisher=East Coast Daily}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title= Queen Anushka Shetty Pan India Film “Ghaati” spine-chilling Glimpse out now|url= https://industryhit.com/t/queen-anushka-shetty-creative-director-krish-jagarlamudi-uv-creations-presents-first-frame-entertainments-pan-india-film-ghaati-spine-chilling-glimpse-out-now/|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250612210929/https://industryhit.com/t/queen-anushka-shetty-creative-director-krish-jagarlamudi-uv-creations-presents-first-frame-entertainments-pan-india-film-ghaati-spine-chilling-glimpse-out-now/ |archive-date=12 June 2025 |access-date=31 March 2026|publisher=Industry Hit}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title= Happy Birthday Devsena — Anushka Shetty|quote= The queen of south Indian cinemas, Anushka Shetty|url=https://www.orissapost.com/happy-birthday-devsena-anushka-shetty/ |url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181107123624/https://www.orissapost.com/happy-birthday-devsena-anushka-shetty/ |archive-date=7 Nov 2018 |access-date=31 March 2026|publisher=Orissa Post}}</ref><ref name=":3">{{cite web |title= From ‘Arundhati’ to ‘Baahubali’: An A-Z tribute to Anushka Shetty’s stellar journey|quote= She regularly receives top billing and ranks among the highestpaid female film stars in India|url=https://www.easterneye.biz/anushka-shetty-birthday-special/ |url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250621224650/https://www.easterneye.biz/anushka-shetty-birthday-special/ |archive-date=21 June 2025 |access-date=31 March 2026|publisher=Eastern Eye}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title= Anushka Shetty Birthday Special: Embrace Simplicity, Elegance & Inner Radiance – Your Guide To This Diwali Glam! |quote= Happy Birthday, Anushka Shetty: Celebrating Lady Superstar’s simplicity that has no bounds, for this Diwali festive fashion take inspiration from the South Actress queen|url=https://popdiaries.com/fashion/anushka-shetty-birthday-special-embrace-simplicity-elegance-inner-radiance-your-guide-to-this-diwali-fashion-glam-1688549 |url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240424063014/https://popdiaries.com/fashion/anushka-shetty-birthday-special-embrace-simplicity-elegance-inner-radiance-your-guide-to-this-diwali-fashion-glam-1688549 |archive-date=24 April 2024 |access-date=31 March 2026|publisher=Pop Diaries}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title= Anushka Shetty returns as bloodthirsty wild sorcerer!|quote= lady superstar and queen of South siren actress Anushka Shetty is all set to rule the Malayalam film industry|url=https://odishatv.in/news/entertainment/anushka-shetty-returns-as-bloodthirsty-wild-sorcerer--230059 |url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240313062238/https://odishatv.in/news/entertainment/anushka-shetty-returns-as-bloodthirsty-wild-sorcerer--230059 |archive-date=13 March 2024 |access-date=31 March 2026|publisher=Odisha TV}}</ref> One of the highest-paid actresses in India,<ref name=":3" /><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/celebrities/story/baahubali-2-prabhas-rana-anushka-ss-rajamouli-salary-details-975545-2017-05-06|title=Baahubali 2: Did you know Prabhas, Rana Daggubati, Anushka are highest paid star cast in India?|agency=Ist|newspaper=India Today|access-date=23 October 2019|archive-date=23 October 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191023084032/https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/celebrities/story/baahubali-2-prabhas-rana-anushka-ss-rajamouli-salary-details-975545-2017-05-06|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Kumar |first=Varsha |date=2022-01-31 |title=South Indian Actresses With The Highest Pay In 2022 |url=https://womansera.com/south-indian-actresses-with-the-highest-pay-in-2022/ |access-date=2022-03-25 |language=en-US}}</ref> she is the recipient of three Filmfare Awards South, two Nandi Awards, two SIIMA Awards and one Tamil Nadu State Film Award. Shetty was honoured with Kalaimamani in 2010 by the Government of Tamil Nadu.<ref>{{Cite news|date=29 January 2011|title=Kalaimamani awards announced|language=en-IN|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/Kalaimamani-awards-announced/article15536990.ece|access-date=16 May 2021|issn=0971-751X|archive-date=16 May 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210516222804/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/Kalaimamani-awards-announced/article15536990.ece|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | title=Anushka, Tamannah among Kalaimamani winners | website=The New Indian Express | date=29 January 2011 | url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/entertainment/tamil/2011/Jan/29/anushka-tamannah-among-kalaimamani-winners-223105.html | access-date=17 April 2024 | archive-date=22 January 2022 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220122145923/https://www.newindianexpress.com/entertainment/tamil/2011/jan/29/anushka-tamannah-among-kalaimamani-winners-223105.html | url-status=live }}</ref>
She made her acting debut with the 2005 Telugu film ''Super'', which garnered her a Filmfare Best Supporting Actress – Telugu nomination.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web|title=Anushka The Queen Of South Indian Cinema|url=https://www.magzter.com/article/Entertainment/Cinesprint/Anushka-The-Queen-Of-South-Indian-Cinema|access-date=24 November 2020|website=magzter.com|language=en}}</ref> The following year, she starred in S. S. Rajamouli's blockbuster hit ''Vikramarkudu''. Her further releases ''Lakshyam'' (2007), ''Souryam'' (2008), and ''Chintakayala Ravi'' (2008) were also box office successes. In 2009, Shetty played dual roles in the Telugu dark fantasy film ''Arundhati'', which led her to her first Filmfare Award for Best Actress – Telugu, and Nandi Award. The following year, Shetty's portrayal of a prostitute in the acclaimed drama ''Vedam'' won her a second consecutive Best Actress Award from Filmfare.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://movies.rediff.com/slide-show/2010/may/31/slide-show-1-south-interview-with-anushka-shetty.htm |title=Meet super-talented Anushka Shetty! – Rediff.com Movies |publisher=Movies.rediff.com |date=31 May 2010 |access-date=18 June 2011 |archive-date=12 May 2017 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20170512101414/https://movies.rediff.com/slide-show/2010/may/31/slide-show-1-south-interview-with-anushka-shetty.htm |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref name=autogenerated1>{{cite web |url=http://movies.rediff.com/slide-show/2009/dec/29/slide-show-1-south-2009s-top-telugu-actresses.htm |title=Top Telugu actresses of 2009 – Rediff.com Movies |publisher=Movies.rediff.com |date=29 December 2009 |access-date=18 June 2011 |archive-date=11 May 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110511151510/http://movies.rediff.com/slide-show/2009/dec/29/slide-show-1-south-2009s-top-telugu-actresses.htm |url-status=dead }}</ref>
In the 2010s, Shetty also starred in Tamil cinema in the action films such as ''Vettaikaaran'' (2009), ''Singam'' (2010), ''Singam II'' (2013), and ''Yennai Arindhaal'' (2015), all of which were major commercial successes. She continued to draw praise from critics with her leading performances in the dramas ''Vaanam'' (2011), ''Deiva Thirumagal'' (2011) and ''Size Zero'' (2015). She portrayed the titular queen in the 2015 epic historical fiction ''Rudhramadevi'', which won her the third Filmfare Award for Best Actress – Telugu. Shetty's portrayal of Princess Devasena in the ''Baahubali series'' (2015–17) received widespread acclaim.<ref name=":2">{{Cite news |title=Happy Birthday Anushka Shetty: 6 Best Performances of the Baahubali actress who is a darling among the masses |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/happy-birthday-anushka-shetty-6-best-performances-of-the-baahubali-actress-who-is-a-darling-among-the-masses/articleshow/71939223.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191110025926/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/happy-birthday-anushka-shetty-6-best-performances-of-the-baahubali-actress-who-is-a-darling-among-the-masses/articleshow/71939223.cms |archive-date=10 November 2019 |access-date=7 November 2019 |website=The Times of India}}</ref>
Shetty debuted in Malayalam with Kathanar – The Wild Sorcerer which marks her 50th film, is expected to release on 2026 second half.
== Early life and education == Shetty was born as Sweety Shetty on 7 November 1981 in Mangalore, Karnataka.<ref>{{Cite web|date=7 November 2017|title=Happy Birthday Anushka Shetty: The Baahubali star's five must watch films|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/telugu/happy-birthday-anushka-shetty-five-films-baahubali-vedam-arundhati-billa-4926132/|access-date=4 May 2021|website=The Indian Express|language=en}}</ref> She is an ethnic Tuluva hailing from a Tulu-speaking Bunt family from Bellipady village in Puttur taluk of Dakshina Kannada district.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2018-03-29 |title=Interesting facts about Anushka Shetty |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/interesting-facts-about-anushka-shetty/photostory/63523805.cms |access-date=2024-12-16 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref><ref name=TOI>{{cite news|last=Vinobha KT|title=Household Kola draws Tulu belle to Bellipady|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/mangalore/Household-Kola-draws-Tulu-belle-to-Bellipady/articleshow/11230837.cms|access-date=7 January 2012|date=24 December 2011|archive-date=20 May 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130520203812/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-12-24/mangalore/30554058_1_anushka-shetty-telugu-film-tuluva|newspaper=The Times of India|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Mangalore-born actress Anushka Shetty to charm fans in Dubai |url=https://www.daijiworld.com/news/newsDisplay.aspx?newsID=211775 |access-date=2024-12-16 |website=www.daijiworld.com |language=en}}</ref> Her parents are Prafulla and A. N. Vittal Shetty and she has two elder brothers, Gunaranjan Shetty and Sai Ramesh Shetty.<ref name=TOI /> Shetty received her Bachelor of Computer Applications from Mount Carmel College in Bangalore. She was also a yoga instructor, trained under Bharat Thakur.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rediff.com/movies/slide-show/slide-show-1-south-interview-with-anushka-shetty/20100531.htm|title=Meet super-talented Anushka Shetty!|website=rediff.com|access-date=30 June 2017|archive-date=3 June 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170603122305/http://www.rediff.com/movies/slide-show/slide-show-1-south-interview-with-anushka-shetty/20100531.htm|url-status=live}}</ref>
While filming her debut film ''Super'', the director Puri Jagannadh and producer Nagarjuna were keen for Shetty to have a screen name as they felt her real name Sweety may not be appealing to the audience. While mulling over different names, they came across Anushka Manchanda who was singing one of the songs in the film. They liked her first name and decided to adopt Anushka as the screen name for Shetty's film career.<ref>{{Citation |title=అనుష్క ని సినిమాలోకి తీసుకున్న {{!}} Puri Jagannadh on how He cast Anushka in her 1st movie Super (in Telugu) | date=19 November 2021 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iucXW7CGduY |language=en |access-date=2022-07-30}}</ref>
== Career == === Early work (2005–2008) === Shetty made her acting debut in 2005 with Puri Jagannadh's ''Super'', where she featured alongside Nagarjuna and Ayesha Takia.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.rediff.com/movies/2005/jul/22super.htm|title=Nagarjuna latest isn't Super|website=Rediff.com|date=22 July 2005|access-date=20 October 2020}}</ref> ''Sify'' stated, "The sexy girls Ayesha and Anushka show off their bodies."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.sify.com/movies/super-review-telugu-13904525.html|title=Sify Movies – Review listing|website=Sify|access-date=30 June 2017|archive-date=24 September 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924203712/http://www.sify.com/movies/super-review-telugu-13904525.html|url-status=dead}}</ref> For her performance, she earned her first nomination for the Filmfare Award for Best Supporting Actress – Telugu. The same year, she acted in another film ''Mahanandi'', opposite Srihari and Sumanth. ''IndiaGlitz'' said, "Anushka looks comely ---and that is what she seems to be in for." but added, "The script has been stitched and the seams look frayed."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.indiaglitz.com/channels/telugu/review/7731.html|title=Mahanandi review. Mahanandi Telugu movie review, story, rating – IndiaGlitz.com|website=IndiaGlitz|access-date=30 June 2017|archive-date=6 December 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171206154822/https://www.indiaglitz.com/channels/telugu/review/7731.html|url-status=dead}}</ref> ''Sify'' stated that it "starts promisingly with a racy first half but goes awry and the tempo slackens post interval." and added, "Anushka looks ravishing thanks to Vasu's camera which is a major plus for the film."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.sify.com/movies/mahanandi-review-telugu-14026821.html|title=Review|website=Sify|access-date=30 June 2017|archive-date=24 September 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924183701/http://www.sify.com/movies/mahanandi-review-telugu-14026821.html|url-status=dead}}</ref>
In 2006, she had four releases, the first being S. S. Rajamouli's ''Vikramarkudu'', where she was paired with Ravi Teja. Kishore of ''Nowrunning.com'' said "The high points of the movie are the flawless acting of Ravi Teja and the lusciousness of Anushka. Anushka has all the assets to that a woman ought to have."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nowrunning.com/movie/3014/telugu/vikramarkudu/763/review.htm|title=Vikramarkudu Review – Telugu Movie Vikramarkudu nowrunning review|website=nowrunning.com|access-date=30 June 2017|archive-date=8 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170908031006/http://www.nowrunning.com/movie/3014/telugu/vikramarkudu/763/review.htm|url-status=dead}}</ref> and ''Sify'' said that Anushka "is definitely a highlight."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.sify.com/movies/vikramarkudu-review-telugu-14236373.html|title=Review|website=Sify|access-date=30 June 2017|archive-date=24 September 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924213427/http://www.sify.com/movies/vikramarkudu-review-telugu-14236373.html|url-status=dead}}</ref> It was a commercial success.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.indiaglitz.com/channels/hindi/article/25736.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140201225816/http://www.indiaglitz.com/channels/hindi/article/25736.html|archive-date=1 February 2014|title=Vikramarkudu celebrates 100 days in 54 centres|work=indiaglitz.com}}</ref> She next starred in the film ''Astram'', a remake of the 1999 Hindi film ''Sarfarosh'', following which she debuted in the Tamil film industry, acting in the Sundar C-directed action flick ''Rendu'', sharing screen space with R. Madhavan. Later that year, she made a special appearance alongside Mega star Chiranjeevi in A. R. Murugadoss' directorial debut in Telugu, ''Stalin''.<ref>{{Cite web |date=20 November 2006 |title=Maddy vs Maddy in Rendu |url=http://specials.rediff.com/movies/2006/nov/20sd4.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220627044217/http://specials.rediff.com/movies/2006/nov/20sd4.htm |archive-date=27 June 2022 |access-date=21 February 2016 |website=Rediff.com}}</ref>
Her first release in 2007 was ''Lakshya'' which was a success in box office, after which she starred in Raghava Lawrence's ''Don'' opposite Nagarjuna again. The former, in particular, succeeded at the box office.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.idlebrain.com/news/2000march20/2007top10films.html |title=top 10 films in 2007 at box office- Telugu cinema news |publisher=Idlebrain.com |date=28 December 2007 |access-date=18 June 2011| archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20110610220244/http://www.idlebrain.com/news/2000march20/2007top10films.html| archive-date= 10 June 2011 | url-status=live}}</ref> In 2008 she had appeared in six films. ''Okka Magaadu'' was the first release, in which she played one of three female leads. Nandamuri Balakrishna was the actor opposite her in ''Okka Magaadu''. Her next releases ''Swagatam'' alongside Jagapathi Babu and Bhumika Chawla and ''Baladoor'' opposite Ravi Teja garnered poor reviews and box office returns.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.telugucinema.com/c/publish/news/anushka_dc3008.php |title=News : Heroines of the year: Anushka, Trisha |website=Telugucinema.com |access-date=17 December 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120406205154/http://www.telugucinema.com/c/publish/news/anushka_dc3008.php |archive-date=6 April 2012 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.telugucinema.com/c/publish/movietrade/apbo2008_printer.php |title=A.P Box-office 2008 |website=Telugucinema.com |date=27 December 2008 |access-date=17 December 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120406205159/http://www.telugucinema.com/c/publish/movietrade/apbo2008_printer.php |archive-date=6 April 2012 }}</ref> She next appeared in the film ''Souryam'' with Gopichand which became a box office hit.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Vanaparthy Ranganath |date=31 December 2008 |title=Top 14 movies of Telugu cinema in 2008 |url=https://www.idlebrain.com/news/2000march20/2008top14films.html |access-date=2025-02-22 |website=Idlebrain.com}}</ref> Her last release that year was ''Chintakayala Ravi'' opposite Venkatesh.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Review: Chintakayala Ravi entertains|url=https://www.rediff.com/movies/2008/oct/03ssc.htm|access-date=2020-07-14|website=www.rediff.com}}</ref>
=== Experimental roles and success (2009–2010) === left|thumb|Shetty at an event
In 2009, Shetty first starred in the blockbuster hit, the fantasy film ''Arundhati''. In this heroine-centric film, she essayed two roles for the first time.<ref name=autogenerated1 /> ''Idlebrain''{{'}}s Jeevi wrote that she was "simply amazing in two roles" and that she did "exceptionally well with subtle yet impact creating performance,"<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.idlebrain.com/movie/archive/mr-arundhati.html |title=Arundhati review — Telugu cinema Review — Anushka, Sonu Sood |publisher=Idlebrain.com |date=16 January 2009 |access-date=17 December 2011 |archive-date=11 December 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111211184204/http://www.idlebrain.com/movie/archive/mr-arundhati.html |url-status=live }}</ref> while ''Rediff.com'' claimed that she was "brilliant and breathtaking in parts," labelling ''Arundhati'' as "totally Anushka's film."<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.rediff.com/movies/2009/jan/19telugu-film-review-arundhati.htm |title=Review: Arundhati |work=Rediff.com |access-date=17 December 2011 |archive-date=22 January 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090122001130/http://www.rediff.com/movies/2009/jan/19telugu-film-review-arundhati.htm |url-status=live }}</ref> ''Sify'' noted that she was "at her best with great performance"<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.sify.com/movies/arundhati-review-telugu-14838969.html |title=Movie Review:Arundhati |website=Sify |access-date=17 December 2011 |archive-date=28 October 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141028081537/http://www.sify.com/movies/arundhati-review-telugu-14838969.html |url-status=dead }}</ref> She went on to win the Nandi Special Jury Award<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.idlebrain.com/news/2000march20/nandiawards2009.html|title=Nandi awards 2009 announced – Telugu cinema news|website=idlebrain.com|access-date=30 June 2017|archive-date=23 January 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180123053750/http://www.idlebrain.com/news/2000march20/nandiawards2009.html|url-status=live}}</ref> and her first Filmfare Award for Best Actress – Telugu.<ref>{{cite news | url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/regional/news-interviews/Filmfare-Awards-winners/articleshow/6280143.cms?referral=PM | work=The Times of India | title=Filmfare Awards winners – The Times of India | date=9 August 2010 | access-date=9 April 2014 | archive-date=25 October 2018 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181025192658/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/regional/news-interviews/Filmfare-Awards-winners/articleshow/6280143.cms?referral=PM | url-status=live }}</ref> Her next film was ''Billa'', a remake of the 2007 Tamil film of the same name. The film received mixed reviews, with ''Rediff'' stating "Anushka has a super-toned body and indulges in quite a bit of skin show" but had "nothing much to do,"<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.rediff.com/movies/review/billa-is-all-style-no-substance/20090406.htm|title=Billa is all style, no substance|website=rediff.com|access-date=30 June 2017|archive-date=23 March 2017|archive-url=https://archive.today/20170323134326/https://www.rediff.com/movies/review/billa-is-all-style-no-substance/20090406.htm|url-status=live}}</ref> while ''Sify'' stated "Anushka was there to show her oomph and glamour which she has done full justice."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.sify.com/movies/billa-review-telugu-14878557.html|title=Review|website=Sify|access-date=30 June 2017|archive-date=24 September 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924153337/http://www.sify.com/movies/billa-review-telugu-14878557.html|url-status=dead}}</ref> Her final release in 2009 was her second Tamil feature film, the action masala film ''Vettaikkaran'' with actor Vijay and it received generally unfavourable reviews. ''Rediff'' said, "Anushka, fresh from her success with ''Arundhathi'', has been relegated to pretty bimbette again and appears conveniently during the romantic numbers of which ''Oru Chinna Thamarai'' takes the cake."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://movies.rediff.com/report/2009/dec/18/south-tamil-movie-review-vettaikkaran.htm|title=Review: Vettaikkaran is for Vijay fans|website=rediff.com|access-date=30 June 2017|archive-url=https://archive.today/20170321075112/http://movies.rediff.com/report/2009/dec/18/south-tamil-movie-review-vettaikkaran.htm|archive-date=21 March 2017|url-status=dead}}</ref> and ''Sify'' said, "Anushka has nothing much to do and hence goes unnoticed."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.sify.com/movies/vettaikaran-review-review-tamil-14924110.html|title=Sify Movies – Review listing|website=Sify|access-date=30 June 2017|archive-date=21 January 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140121023329/http://www.sify.com/movies/vettaikaran-review-review-tamil-14924110.html|url-status=dead}}</ref>
She had a string of releases in 2010. She portrayed a prostitute in Krish's anthology film ''Vedam'' which stars Allu Arjun.<ref name="rediff1">{{cite web |url=http://www.rediff.com/movies/slide-show/slide-show-1-south-top-telugu-actresses-of-2010/20101220.htm |title=Top Telugu Actresses of 2010 – Rediff.com Movies |work=Rediff.com |date=20 December 2010 |access-date=18 June 2011 |archive-date=6 June 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110606112715/http://www.rediff.com/movies/slide-show/slide-show-1-south-top-telugu-actresses-of-2010/20101220.htm |url-status=live }}</ref> For her performance, she won her second consecutive Filmfare Award for Best Actress – Telugu.<ref>{{cite news | url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/others/news-interviews/Filmfare-Awards-winners/articleshow/6280143.cms? | work=The Times of India | title=Filmfare Awards winners – The Times of India | access-date=4 April 2014 | archive-date=18 August 2016 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160818152209/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/others/news-interviews/Filmfare-Awards-winners/articleshow/6280143.cms | url-status=live }}</ref> Her next Telugu film, ''Panchakshari'', was another heroine-centric film where she again performed double roles.<ref name="rediff1" /> This was followed by the action comedy ''Khaleja'', where she starred opposite Mahesh Babu for the first time in her career, ''Nagavalli'', the Telugu remake of the Kannada film ''Aptharakshaka'' in which she portrayed the famous role of Chandramukhi and ''Ragada''. She also made special appearances in the films ''Kedi'' and ''Thakita Thakita''. However all these 2010 releases failed to make an impact at the box office.<ref name="rediff1" /> Her sole Tamil release of 2010, the police drama ''Singam'' co-starring Suriya was a major commercial success. ''Sify'' claimed, "Anushka is there only for adding glamour and songs, but does a decent job".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.sify.com/movies/singam-review-review-tamil-14943277.html|title=Sify Movies – Review listing|website=Sify|access-date=30 June 2017|archive-date=22 January 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160122190206/http://www.sify.com/movies/singam-review-review-tamil-14943277.html|url-status=dead}}</ref> while Pavithra Srinivasan of ''Rediff'' stated, "Anushka, thankfully, has more to do than just prance around in skimpy clothes (which she does very well). She romances dutifully, but her part picks up when both she and Suriya are in Chennai, tangling with villains."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://movies.rediff.com/report/2010/may/28/south-tamil-review-singam.htm|title=Singam, the mother of all masala films|website=rediff.com|access-date=30 June 2017|archive-date=18 October 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171018083842/http://movies.rediff.com/report/2010/may/28/south-tamil-review-singam.htm|url-status=live}}</ref> Despite its moderate commercial success, ''Nagavalli'' earned Anushka her third nomination for the Filmfare Award for Best Actress – Telugu.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.idlebrain.com/movie/archive/mr-nagavalli.html|title=Nagavalli film review - Telugu cinema — Venkatesh, Anushka & Richa Gangapodhyay|publisher=idlebrain.com|access-date=10 December 2013}}</ref>
=== Commercial struggles (2011–2013) === She reprised the role she played in ''Vedam'' in its Tamil remake, ''Vaanam'' (2011). Malathi Rangarajan of ''The Hindu'' said, "Boldness and daring mark Anushka's role—the actor's eyes effectively convey joy, helplessness, agony and anger."<ref>{{cite news | url=http://www.hindu.com/cp/2011/05/01/stories/2011050150050200.htm | title=Stars stomp the sky – Vaanam | location=Chennai, India | date=1 May 2011 | access-date=4 April 2014 | archive-date=15 October 2013 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131015004453/http://www.hindu.com/cp/2011/05/01/stories/2011050150050200.htm | work=The Hindu | url-status=dead }}</ref> A critic from ''Sify'' wrote that "Anushka is outstanding as the commercial sex worker as she is able to bring out a life-like performance."<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.sify.com/movies/vaanam-review-review-tamil-14968580.html |title=Movie review: Vaanam |website=Sify |access-date=24 November 2012 |archive-date=30 January 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140130052925/http://www.sify.com/movies/vaanam-review-review-tamil-14968580.html |url-status=dead }}</ref> She next starred in A. L. Vijay's ''Deiva Thirumagal''. The drama centers on the characters of Krishna (Vikram), an intellectually disabled father and his daughter Nila. The film became a critical and commercial success, fetching her laurels for her portrayal as Anuradha, an advocate.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.thehindu.com/arts/cinema/article2233163.ece |title=Deiva Thirumagal: a sensitive poem on celluloid |work=The Hindu |date=16 July 2011 |access-date=24 November 2012 |location=Chennai, India |first=Malathi |last=Rangarajan |archive-date=20 July 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110720135157/http://www.thehindu.com/arts/cinema/article2233163.ece |url-status=live }}</ref> ''Oneindia'' stated, "Anushka Shetty's character in the film had good scope for performance without being glamorous."<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.filmibeat.com/tamil/reviews/2011/deiva-thirumagal-review-150711-aid0017.html|title=Deiva Thirumagal review|date=15 July 2011|website=Oneindia|access-date=30 June 2017|archive-date=7 December 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131207084220/http://entertainment.oneindia.in/tamil/reviews/2011/deiva-thirumagal-review-150711-aid0017.html|url-status=live}}</ref> For her performance, she won the Vijay Award for Favourite Heroine, in addition to her sole nomination for the Filmfare Award for Best Actress – Tamil.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.ibnlive.com/news/india/6th-annual-vijay-awards-complete-list-of-winners-483185.html |title=6th Annual Vijay Awards: Complete list of winners |date=19 June 2012 |publisher=CNN-IBN |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150811113839/http://www.ibnlive.com/news/india/6th-annual-vijay-awards-complete-list-of-winners-483185.html |archive-date=11 August 2015 |access-date=26 April 2021}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/The-59th-Idea-Filmfare-Awards-2011South/articleshow/14742576.cms |title=The 59th Idea Filmfare Awards 2011(South) |date=8 July 2012 |work=The Times of India |access-date=26 April 2021 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150811103446/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/The-59th-Idea-Filmfare-Awards-2011South/articleshow/14742576.cms |archive-date=11 August 2015}}</ref>
In 2012, Anushka collaborated again with A. L. Vijay and Vikram in the action drama ''Thaandavam''. Malathi Rangarajan stated that "the romance between Vikram and Anushka is a beautiful feature of ''Thaandavam''."<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.thehindu.com/arts/cinema/thaandavam-fiery-dance-of-the-righteous/article3948755.ece |title=Thaandavam: Fiery dance of the righteous |work=The Hindu |date=29 September 2012 |access-date=24 November 2012 |location=Chennai, India |first=Malathi |last=Rangarajan |archive-date=11 November 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121111150826/http://www.thehindu.com/arts/cinema/thaandavam-fiery-dance-of-the-righteous/article3948755.ece |url-status=live }}</ref> She later appeared alongside Nagarjuna in the fantasy film ''Damarukam'', which was her first Telugu release after two years. Karthik Pasupulate from ''The Times of India'' said that Anushka "has little to do as far as performance goes and does a good job of upping the glam quotient."<ref>{{cite news |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/regional/movie-review/17337951.cms |title=Dhamarukam Movie review |work=The Times of India |date=23 November 2012 |access-date=24 November 2012 |archive-date=26 November 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121126070759/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/regional/movie-review/17337951.cms |url-status=live }}</ref> Radhika Rajamani of ''Rediff'' claimed, "Anushka looks sweet. Nag and Anushka have good onscreen chemistry."<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.rediff.com/movies/review/south-review-damarukam/20121123.htm|title=Review: Damarukam is a one-time watch|website=rediff.com|access-date=30 June 2017|archive-date=23 March 2017|archive-url=https://archive.today/20170323121122/https://www.rediff.com/movies/review/south-review-damarukam/20121123.htm|url-status=live}}</ref> ''Oneindia'' claimed, "Anushka Shetty has less scope for acting, but she impresses you in song sequences."<ref>[https://www.filmibeat.com/telugu/reviews/2012/damarukam-movie-review-101388.html Oneindia] ".</ref> She received her fourth nomination for the Filmfare Award for Best Actress – Telugu for her performance in the film.
[[File:Anushka Shetty - TeachAIDS at Tech Awards Gala (13565635243).jpg|thumb|Shetty during TeachAids Awards Gala in Santa Clara, California in 2013]]
Shetty's first release in 2013 was ''Alex Pandian'', an action-masala film, directed by Suraj, co-starring Karthi.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.sify.com/movies/karthi-anushka-starrer-starts-rolling-news-news-llojHkhdjdf.html |title=Karthi-Anushka starrer starts rolling! |website=Sify |access-date=17 December 2011 |archive-date=17 December 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111217161824/http://www.sify.com/movies/karthi-anushka-starrer-starts-rolling-news-news-llojHkhdjdf.html |url-status=dead }}</ref> The film was a critical and commercial failure.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.firstpost.com/bollywood/unlike-bollywood-kollywood-learns-to-make-money-without-stars-924623.html|title=Unlike Bollywood, Kollywood learns to make money without stars|date=3 July 2013|website=firstpost.com|access-date=30 June 2017|archive-date=22 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160922235104/http://www.firstpost.com/bollywood/unlike-bollywood-kollywood-learns-to-make-money-without-stars-924623.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Her second release was Koratala Siva's ''Mirchi'' opposite Prabhas. ''Idlebrain.com'' claimed, "Anushka is adorable in a naughty village belle, the dubbing also seems great and the character Vennela is the best role among her recent roles in films"<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.idlebrain.com |title=Mirchi movie review by Jeevi |work=Idlebrain |access-date=6 June 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130609080543/http://idlebrain.com/ |archive-date=9 June 2013 }} movie archive mirchi.html</ref> ''Rediff'' wrote, "Anushka is bubbly and peps up the film considerably."<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.rediff.com |access-date=15 January 2015 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150115081902/http://www.rediff.com/ |archive-date=15 January 2015|title=Mirchi has an overdoes of violence|work=Rediff}}</ref> ''Sify'' wrote, "Anushka looks beautiful and livens up the moments and praised her chemistry with Prabhas."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.sify.com/movies/mirchi-review-review-telugu-15019932.html|title=Review : Mirchi|website=Sify|access-date=30 June 2017|archive-date=24 September 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924184702/http://www.sify.com/movies/mirchi-review-review-telugu-15019932.html|url-status=dead}}</ref> She earned her fifth nomination for the Filmfare Award for Best Actress – Telugu for her performance in ''Mirchi''. She was next seen in ''Singam II'', the sequel to ''Singam'' (2010), reprising her role from the first part. ''Sify'' said, "Anushka looks jaded, has nothing to do but sizzle with Suriya in two songs"<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.sify.com/movies/singam-2-review-tamil-15033352.html|title=Sify Movies – Review listing|website=Sify|access-date=30 June 2017|archive-date=19 October 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151019131855/http://www.sify.com/movies/singam-2-review-tamil-15033352.html|url-status=dead}}</ref> while ''The Times of India'' stated, "Anushka is forced to take a back seat even as she reprises her role of Kavya."<ref>{{cite news | url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/singam-2/movie-review/20966503.cms | work=The Times of India | title=Singam 2 – The Times of India | access-date=3 April 2014 | archive-date=6 October 2013 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131006154305/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/singam-2/movie-review/20966503.cms | url-status=live }}</ref>
Anushka's next release was Selvaraghavan's fantasy adventure film ''Irandam Ulagam'' opposite Arya,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.sify.com/movies/anushka-says-she-is-part-of-a-selva-film-news-tamil-limqLdjchbc.html |title=Anushka says she is part of a Selva film |website=Sify |access-date=17 December 2011 |archive-date=19 October 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131019224647/http://www.sify.com/movies/anushka-says-she-is-part-of-a-selva-film-news-tamil-limqLdjchbc.html |url-status=dead }}</ref> that saw her playing a dual role again, the third time in her career. Anushka played Ramya, a doctor and Varna, a high spirited, warrior-like character, in a parallel world. ''Rediff'' wrote, "Anushka not only shares equal screen space with Arya, but also plays quite a significant role. In fact, the story revolves around her and she has performed admirably."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rediff.com/movies/report/review-irandam-ulagam-is-a-mystical-love-story/20131122.htm|title=Review: Irandam Ulagam is a mystical love story|website=rediff.com|access-date=30 June 2017|archive-date=17 June 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170617153525/http://www.rediff.com/movies/report/review-irandam-ulagam-is-a-mystical-love-story/20131122.htm|url-status=live}}</ref> ''Behindwoods'' wrote, "As the shy doctor Ramya and as the fierce warrior Varna, Anushka is simply at her best showcasing a wide range of emotions and stunts. It is her performance that stands as a pivot for the rest of the story to take shape."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.behindwoods.com/tamil-movies/irandam-ulagam/irandam-ulagam-review.html|title=Irandam Ulagam (aka) Irandam Ulagam review|website=behindwoods.com|access-date=30 June 2017|archive-date=6 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170906065047/http://www.behindwoods.com/tamil-movies/irandam-ulagam/irandam-ulagam-review.html|url-status=live}}</ref>
=== Established actress (2014–2017) === Her next release was the Tamil film ''Lingaa'' opposite Rajinikanth, released in December 2014.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news-interviews/Rajinis-Lingaa-launched/articleshow/34523007.cms|title=Rajini's Lingaa launched|newspaper=The Times of India|access-date=30 June 2017|archive-date=21 October 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181021193804/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news-interviews/Rajinis-Lingaa-launched/articleshow/34523007.cms|url-status=live}}</ref> She starred opposite Rajnikanth in ''Lingaa'' which opened to mixed reviews.<ref>[http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movie-reviews/Lingaa/movie-review/45493724.cms "Lingaa"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150301043737/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movie-reviews/Lingaa/movie-review/45493724.cms |date=1 March 2015 }}. ''The Times of India''. 12 December 2014. Retrieved 13 December 2014. {{Rating|2.5|5}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rediff.com/movies/report/review-lingaa-is-buffoonery-at-its-most-old-school/20141212.htm|title=Review: Lingaa is buffoonery at its most old-school|website=rediff.com|access-date=30 June 2017|archive-date=17 May 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170517225049/http://www.rediff.com/movies/report/review-lingaa-is-buffoonery-at-its-most-old-school/20141212.htm|url-status=live}}</ref>
In 2015, she starred opposite Ajith Kumar in ''Yennai Arindhaal'' which opened to positive reviews.<ref>[https://bangaloremirror.indiatimes.com/entertainment/south-masala/I-am-dying-to-work-with-Ajith-again/articleshow/46277259.cms "'I am dying to work with Ajith again'"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150219105050/http://www.bangaloremirror.com/entertainment/south-masala/I-am-dying-to-work-with-Ajith-again/articleshow/46277259.cms |date=19 February 2015 }}. ''Bangalore Mirror''.</ref> Her second release in 2015, is the first part of ''Baahubali'' directed by S. S. Rajamouli. She played a warrior princess Devasena, opposite Prabhas.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/kannada/movies/news/A-busy-summer-for-Anushka/articleshow/19259286.cms |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131225205025/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2013-03-30/news-interviews/38144682_1_anushka-shetty-singam-2-baahubali |url-status=live |archive-date=25 December 2013 |title=A busy summer for Anushka |date=30 March 2013 |work=The Times of India |access-date=24 December 2013}}</ref> It was a commercial success and became one of the highest grossing Indian film.<ref name=":0">{{cite web |date=14 May 2017 |title=What does the success of Baahubali mean for Indian cinema? |url=http://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/regional/what-does-the-success-of-baahubali-mean-for-indian-cinema-4655133/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171211114637/http://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/regional/what-does-the-success-of-baahubali-mean-for-indian-cinema-4655133/ |archive-date=11 December 2017 |access-date=11 December 2017}}</ref> Shetty was referred to in the media as the "Lady Superstar", post the film release. ''The Hindu'' noted "Anushka is gutsy to take on such a role and emotes through her powerful eyes."<ref>{{cite news|title = Baahubali: A little more, a little less|url = https://www.thehindu.com/features/cinema/cinema-reviews/baahubali-review-a-little-more-a-little-less/article7407650.ece|newspaper = The Hindu|date = 10 July 2015|access-date = 1 August 2015|issn = 0971-751X|archive-date = 22 March 2017|archive-url = https://archive.today/20170322084308/https://www.thehindu.com/features/cinema/cinema-reviews/baahubali-review-a-little-more-a-little-less/article7407650.ece|url-status = live}}</ref> Her third release that year was Gunashekar's bilingual ''Rudhramadevi'', in which she portrays the title role of the queen of Kakatiya dynasty, Rudrama Devi opposite Allu Arjun and Rana Daggubati.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/Anushka-to-do-a-Tamil-Telugu-period-film/etarticleshow/16684262.cms |title=Anushka to do a Tamil-Telugu period film? |work=The Times of India |date=6 October 2012 |access-date=24 November 2012 |archive-date=9 July 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130709103852/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2012-10-06/news-interviews/34280826_1_anushka-period-film-gunashekar |url-status=live }}</ref> ''AP Herald'' wrote, "Anushka is very believable and appreciable as a royal torrid and an honorable woman. Hers is a dual character, that of next to kin 'Rudhradeva' and of powerful 'Rudhramadevi' are superb. She plays her dual role in her characters in style and lends credibility to both the characters."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.apherald.com/Movies/Reviews/58220/Rudhramadevi-(Rudramadevi)-Telugu-Movie-Review-Rating/|title=Rudhramadevi (Rudramadevi) Telugu Movie Review, Rating|website=apherald.com|access-date=30 June 2017|archive-date=2 July 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170702071239/http://www.apherald.com/Movies/Reviews/58220/Rudhramadevi-(Rudramadevi)-Telugu-Movie-Review-Rating/|url-status=live}}</ref> She won her third Filmfare Award for Best Actress – Telugu for her performance in the film. Her final release of the year was ''Size Zero'' where she played a plus-sized women. In 2016, she appeared in two cameo appearances in ''Soggade Chinni Nayana'' and ''Oopiri''.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.thehindu.com/features/cinema/soggade-chinni-nayana-charms-all-the-way/article8114012.ece | title='Soggade' charms all the way | work=The Hindu | date=16 January 2016 | access-date=22 February 2016 | last=Dundoo | first=Sangeetha Devi | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160116115122/http://www.thehindu.com/features/cinema/soggade-chinni-nayana-charms-all-the-way/article8114012.ece | archive-date=16 January 2016}}</ref>
[[File:Anushka Shetty first look Baahubali 2 (cropped).jpg|thumb|Shetty at an event for ''Baahubali: The Conclusion'']]
Shetty's first film release in 2017 was ''Si3'', in which she was paired with Suriya for the third time in her career.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movie-reviews/si3/movie-review/57059210.cms|title=Singam 3 Review {3/5}: Suriya is in full form in Si3 and the Singam franchise is here to stay|website=The Times of India|access-date=30 June 2017}}</ref> In ''Om Namo Venkatesaya'' Shetty portrayed Krishnamma, a Goda Devi or Andal-inspired character. Her next release was ''Baahubali 2: The Conclusion'', where she reprised Devasena.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.financialexpress.com/entertainment/baahubali-2-the-conclusion-review-uae-critic-gives-5-star-rating-prabhas-rana-daggubati-says-cgi-comparable-to-harry-potter/644914/|title=Baahubali 2 first review: UAE critic Umair Sandhu gives 5 stars, says CGI comparable to Harry Potter; Prabhas performance spectacular|date=27 April 2017|website=financialexpress.com|access-date=30 June 2017|archive-date=1 May 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170501193635/http://www.financialexpress.com/entertainment/baahubali-2-the-conclusion-review-uae-critic-gives-5-star-rating-prabhas-rana-daggubati-says-cgi-comparable-to-harry-potter/644914/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.firstpost.com/entertainment/baahubali-2-the-conclusion-movie-review-ss-rajamouli-bahubali-2-is-unforgettable-3409542.html|title=Baahubali 2 Movie Review: SS Rajamouli's epic drama will be hard to forget anytime soon|date=28 April 2017|website=firstpost.com|access-date=30 June 2017|archive-date=28 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170428093328/http://www.firstpost.com/entertainment/baahubali-2-the-conclusion-movie-review-ss-rajamouli-bahubali-2-is-unforgettable-3409542.html|url-status=live}}</ref> The character of Devasena was highly praised by critics and Shetty's portrayal was equally lauded. A ''Firstpost'' article noted that the female characters in the second part were the actual heroes of the saga. Comparing Devasena to Arjuna, the article described her as "a competitive warrior who can wield the bow and arrow with finesse". It further noted how her character emphasized the need of freedom of choice writing that "in Devasena's case by taking archery lessons, choosing her life partner and being given the right to reject a matrimonial alliance, she can be her own person and develop into a strong personality, who doesn't break down even when chained for 25 years in the palace courtyard."<ref>{{cite web |date=28 April 2017 |title=Baahubali 2 Movie Review: SS Rajamouli's epic drama will be hard to forget anytime soon |url=http://www.firstpost.com/entertainment/baahubali-2-the-conclusion-movie-review-ss-rajamouli-bahubali-2-is-unforgettable-3409542.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170428093328/http://www.firstpost.com/entertainment/baahubali-2-the-conclusion-movie-review-ss-rajamouli-bahubali-2-is-unforgettable-3409542.html |archive-date=28 April 2017 |work=Firstpost.com}}</ref> She earned her seventh nomination for the Filmfare Award for Best Actress – Telugu for her performance in ''Baahubali 2: The Conclusion''. It was a commercial success and grossed more than the prequel, becoming second highest grossing Indian film.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/box-office/baahubali-2-the-conclusion-worldwide-box-office-collection-day-6-film-creates-history-by-amassing-rs-792-crore/articleshow/58512266.cms |title='Baahubali 2: The Conclusion' worldwide box office collection Day 6: Film creates history by amassing Rs 792 crore |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170504220821/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/box-office/baahubali-2-the-conclusion-worldwide-box-office-collection-day-6-film-creates-history-by-amassing-rs-792-crore/articleshow/58512266.cms |date=4 May 2017 |work=The Times of India |archive-date=4 May 2017}}</ref> The Baahubali film series firmly established Shetty as a leading South Indian actress.<ref>{{Cite web |date=10 July 2020 |title=Baahubali turns 5: How SS Rajamouli's film changed Indian cinema forever |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/telugu/baahubali-ss-rajamouli-changed-indian-cinema-forever-6498173/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211017184956/https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/telugu/baahubali-ss-rajamouli-changed-indian-cinema-forever-6498173/ |archive-date=17 October 2021 |access-date=26 February 2023 |website=The Indian Express |language=en}}</ref>
=== Career expansion (2018–present) === In the 2018 film ''Bhaagamathie'', Shetty played the character Chanchala, an IAS officer, who is sent to prison after killing her fiancé.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.firstpost.com/entertainment/bhaagamathie-movie-review-anushka-shetty-shines-in-this-horror-thriller-that-owes-a-lot-to-its-technicians-4321151.html|title=Bhaagamathie movie review: Anushka Shetty shines in this horror-thriller that owes a lot to its technicians|work=Firstpost|access-date=7 February 2018|language=en-US|archive-date=7 February 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180207152706/http://www.firstpost.com/entertainment/bhaagamathie-movie-review-anushka-shetty-shines-in-this-horror-thriller-that-owes-a-lot-to-its-technicians-4321151.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Anushka's portrayal of Bhaagamathie and Chanchala was notable.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/movie-reviews/bhaagamathie-movie-review-anushka-shetty-owns-this-edge-of-the-seat-thriller/story-1A3A9T335QH2exiDTQQVgL_amp.html|title=Bhaagamathie movie review: Anushka Shetty owns this edge-of-the-seat thriller|work=Hindustan Times|date=26 January 2018|access-date=31 July 2019|archive-date=11 March 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180311172701/https://www.hindustantimes.com/movie-reviews/bhaagamathie-movie-review-anushka-shetty-owns-this-edge-of-the-seat-thriller/story-1A3A9T335QH2exiDTQQVgL_amp.html|url-status=live}}</ref> ''The News Minute'' wrote, "There is no woman actor in the south who has the kind of commanding presence that Anushka does. When she's on screen, there's no one else you want to watch. I suppose if I ever met her in person, I'd hear imaginary elephants trumpeting around me because she gets under the skin of these regal roles so convincingly."<ref name="The News Minute">{{cite web|url=http://www.thenewsminute.com/article/bhaagamathie-review-anushka-shettys-terrific-performance-elevates-revenge-thriller-75404%3famp|title='Bhaagamathie' review: Anushka Shetty's terrific performance elevates this revenge thriller|publisher=The News Minute|date=26 January 2018|access-date=31 July 2019|archive-date=28 January 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190128134302/https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/bhaagamathie-review-anushka-shettys-terrific-performance-elevates-revenge-thriller-75404?amp|url-status=live}}</ref> Praising Shetty's performance it further read, "Anushka alternates between playing the gentle Chanchala and the vengeful Bhaagamathie with ease. This is an actor who can pull off stereotypical depictions of femininity without it grating on your nerves – so when she swoons at the sight of blood in one scene, it doesn't put you off because she takes herself seriously and isn't around just as a decorative festoon." The film earnedher eighth nomination for the Filmfare Award for Best Actress – Telugu for her performance.<ref name="The News Minute" />
In 2019, Shetty appeared in ''Sye Raa Narasimha Reddy'' as Rani Lakshmi Bai.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Ramnath |first=Nandini |date=2 October 2019 |title='Sye Raa Narasimha Reddy' movie review: Freedom struggle epic works best when in battle mode |url=https://scroll.in/reel/939125/sye-raa-narasimha-reddy-movie-review-freedom-struggle-epic-works-best-when-in-battle-mode |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20191002050944/https://scroll.in/reel/939125/sye-raa-narasimha-reddy-movie-review-freedom-struggle-epic-works-best-when-in-battle-mode |archive-date=2 October 2019 |access-date=2 October 2019 |website=Scroll.in}}</ref> In 2020, she played a painter in the bilingual ''Nishabdham'' opposite R. Madhavan.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.cinemaexpress.com/reviews/telugu/2020/oct/02/silence-movie-reviewa-convoluted-screenplay-fails-to-mask-fundamental-flaws-20578.html|title=Silence Movie Review: A convoluted screenplay fails to mask fundamental flaws|first=Sudhir|last=Srinivasan|work=Cinema Express|date=2 October 2020}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Nyayapati |first=Neeshita |date=2 October 2020 |title=Nishabdham Movie Review : All gloss and no depth |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movie-reviews/nishabdham/movie-review/78437645.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20201002054740/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movie-reviews/nishabdham/movie-review/78437645.cms |archive-date=2 October 2020 |access-date=2 October 2020 |work=The Times of India}}</ref> Following a three year hiatus, Shetty played a woman opting for artificial insemination in ''Miss Shetty Mr Polishetty'' opposite Naveen Polishetty.<ref>{{Cite news |date=7 November 2022 |title=Anushka Shetty unveils first look as MasterChef 'Anvitha Ravali Shetty' from her upcoming film with Naveen Polishetty |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/anushka-shetty-unveils-first-look-as-masterchef-anvitha-ravali-shetty-from-her-upcoming-film-with-naveen-polishetty/articleshow/95361888.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221212032756/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/telugu/movies/news/anushka-shetty-unveils-first-look-as-masterchef-anvitha-ravali-shetty-from-her-upcoming-film-with-naveen-polishetty/articleshow/95361888.cms |archive-date=12 December 2022 |access-date=6 September 2023 |work=The Times of India}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last=Vyas|date=5 June 2021|title=Anushka Shetty turns 'Miss Shetty'|url=https://www.thehansindia.com/cinema/tollywood/anushka-shetty-turns-miss-shetty-689369|access-date=25 June 2021|website=www.thehansindia.com|language=en}}</ref> The film was a box office success.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Miss Shetty Mr Polishetty crosses Rs. 46 crores at the global box office |url=https://www.cinemaexpress.com/telugu/news/2023/sep/25/miss-shetty-mr-polishetty-crosses-rs-50-crores-at-the-global-box-office-47993.html |access-date=2023-09-25 |website=Cinema Express |date=25 September 2023 |language=en |archive-date=2023-10-04 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231004114435/https://www.cinemaexpress.com/telugu/news/2023/sep/25/miss-shetty-mr-polishetty-crosses-rs-50-crores-at-the-global-box-office-47993.html |url-status=live }}</ref> Janaki K of ''India Today'' noted, "Anushka as Anvitha is quite natural in her role and it makes you fall in love all over again."<ref>{{Cite web |title='Miss Shetty Mr Polishetty' Review: Anushka, Naveen's film feels like a warm hug |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/reviews/story/miss-shetty-mr-polishetty-review-anushka-naveens-film-feels-like-a-warm-hug-2432406-2023-09-07 |access-date=2023-09-25 |website=India Today |date=7 September 2023 |language=en |archive-date=2023-09-22 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230922211810/https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/reviews/story/miss-shetty-mr-polishetty-review-anushka-naveens-film-feels-like-a-warm-hug-2432406-2023-09-07 |url-status=live }}</ref> Shetty will next appear in the Telugu film ''Ghaati'',<ref>{{Cite web |last=Mishra |first=Suranjan |date=2024-02-04 |title=Anushka Shetty and Ramya Krishnan in Odisha's Deomali hill for shooting of film |url=https://sambadenglish.com/anushka-shetty-and-ramya-krishnan-in-odishas-deomali-hill-for-shooting-of-film/ |access-date=2024-03-24 |website=Sambad English |language=en |archive-date=24 March 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240324104906/https://sambadenglish.com/anushka-shetty-and-ramya-krishnan-in-odishas-deomali-hill-for-shooting-of-film/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=2024-03-20 |title=Anushka Shetty and Krish Jagarlamudi team up again for 'Ghaati' |url=https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/anushka-shetty-and-krish-jagarlamudi-team-up-again-for-ghaati/article67972368.ece |access-date=2024-03-24 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X |archive-date=24 March 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240324104909/https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/anushka-shetty-and-krish-jagarlamudi-team-up-again-for-ghaati/article67972368.ece |url-status=live }}</ref> and will make her Malayalam film debut with ''Kathanar – The Wild Sorcerer'', as Kalliyankattu Neeli.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Kathanar team completes first schedule |url=https://www.cinemaexpress.com/malayalam/news/2023/jun/02/kathanar-team-completes-first-schedule-44168.html |access-date=2023-08-31 |website=Cinema Express |date=2 June 2023 |language=en |archive-date=31 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230831154212/https://www.cinemaexpress.com/malayalam/news/2023/jun/02/kathanar-team-completes-first-schedule-44168.html |url-status=live }}</ref>
== Filmography ==
{{Main|Anushka Shetty filmography}}
== Awards and nominations == {{Main|List of awards and nominations received by Anushka Shetty}}
Shetty is a recipient of three Filmfare Award for Best Actress – Telugu for her performance in ''Arundhati'', ''Vedam'' and ''Rudhramadevi''.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/regional/news-interviews/Filmfare-Awards-winners/articleshow/6280143.cms |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110811095903/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2010-08-09/news-interviews/28320515_1_filmfare-awards-winners-prakash-raj-k-j-yesudas |url-status=live |archive-date=11 August 2011 |work=The Times of India |title=Filmfare Awards winners |date=9 August 2010}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/The-glitter-the-gloss-the-razzmatazz-/articleshow/9083584.cms|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121105194656/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-07-03/chennai/29732898_1_lifetime-achievement-award-telugu-film-director-award|url-status=live|archive-date=5 November 2012|work=The Times of India|title=The glitter, the gloss, the razzmatazz|date=3 July 2011 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.filmfare.com/news/winners-of-the-63rd-britannia-filmfare-awards-south-13996.html|title=Winners of the 63rd Britannia Filmfare Awards (South)|website=filmfare.com|access-date=14 May 2018|archive-date=2 July 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160702102328/http://www.filmfare.com/news/winners-of-the-63rd-britannia-filmfare-awards-south-13996.html|url-status=live}}</ref>
== References == {{Reflist}}
== External links == {{Commons category}} * {{IMDb name|2011932}} * {{Twitter|msanushkashetty}}
{{Portal bar|Biography|India|Film}}{{Nandi Award for Best Actress}}{{Filmfare Award for Best Actress – Telugu}} {{Nandi Special Jury Award}}{{SIIMA Critics Award for Best Actress – Telugu}}{{CineMAA Best Actress}} {{Authority control}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Shetty, Anushka}} Category:1981 births Category:Living people Category:Actresses from Mangalore Category:Indian film actresses Category:21st-century Indian actresses Category:Actresses in Telugu cinema Category:Actresses in Tamil cinema Category:Tulu actresses Category:Filmfare Awards South winners Category:Nandi Award winners Category:Recipients of the Kalaimamani Award Category:Santosham Film Awards winners Category:CineMAA Awards winners Category:South Indian International Movie Awards winners Category:Mount Carmel College, Bengaluru, alumni