Indukuri Sunil Varma (born 28 February 1974), known mononymously as Sunil, is an Indian actor who works predominantly in Telugu films, and has also featured in a few Tamil films. Noted for his comic roles, Sunil has appeared in over 180 films in his career, including a few lead roles.[1] He has won three state Nandi Awards and two Filmfare Awards South. He was widely considered as one of Tollywood's finest comedians during his peak in the 2000s, most known for his distinct laugh and delivery of jokes.
His career took a decline over the 2010s as he opted for more lead hero roles over comedian roles in commercially unsuccessful films,[7] but has seen a career resurgence as a villain and in more versatile roles.[8] Sunil started as the antagonist in the films Colour Photo (2020) and Pushpa: The Rise (2021), which were commercially successful films. His Tamil films include Maaveeran (2023) and Jailer (2023), the latter of which is his highest grossing release till date.
Career
Sunil started his career in 1996 as an extra in the film Akkada Ammayi Ikkada Abbayi. However, his scenes did not make it to the final cut of the film.[9] His career began on a slow note with movies like Second Hand (which was stopped from production), and Peruleni Cinema. Prema Katha and Swayamvaram were his first real opportunities in the industry. Chiru Navvutho and Nuvve Kavali were the first films that he acted in. Nuvve Kavali was the first one to release.[4]
In 2010, Sunil starred in S. S. Rajamouli-directed Maryada Ramanna, which was a commercial success.[6] A reviewer from Sify noted that: "Sunil would no longer look like a comedy hero. His dances are simply superb."[10]
The 2021 film Pushpa: The Rise saw Sunil in an unusual role of a serious gangster Mangalam Seenu, very different from the comedy roles he usually plays.[12] The success of the film brought him many offers to play negative roles and he made his Tamil debut in 2023 with Maaveeran (2023).[13]
Personal life
Sunil hails from Bhimavaram of Andhra Pradesh, India.[4] Sunil celebrated his 40th birthday for a noble cause donating to a blind school and spending time with them.[14]
Director Trivikram Srinivas and Sunil have been friends since their days in Bhimavaram. They, along with director Gunasekhar, were roommates in Punjagutta during their struggling days. As of 2016, Trivikram rents the room as a memory.[15][16]
^Kavirayani, Suresh (9 September 2017). "Testing time for Sunil Varma". Deccan Chronicle. Archived from the original on 7 April 2023. Retrieved 4 September 2020.
