Dhanush reveals selling flowers to afford idlis as a child, claim sparks online debate

Tamil superstar Dhanush K. Raja, better known as Dhanush, has long been celebrated for breaking stereotypes and redefining stardom in Tamil cinema. Known for his natural performances and versatility, he has delivered both critically acclaimed films and mass entertainers with equal ease. Humble yet dynamic, this National Award winner today stands as one of Tamil cinema’s most bankable and respected stars. But his recent revelation about his childhood left fans surprised- while also making netizens skeptical.

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Actor’s Childhood Revelation

Speaking at the audio launch of his upcoming film Idli Kadai in Chennai on Sunday, Dhanush recalled how, as a child, he sold flowers just to afford idlis. “As a kid, I always craved idlis every single day, but I couldn’t afford them. Hence, we started collecting flowers from the neighbourhood. The money we get will be based on the amount of flowers we collect every day. My sister, cousins and I would wake up at 4 AM to do this for over two hours,” the actor revealed.

Fondness for Idlis

Dhanush further added that the satisfaction he experienced then was far greater than what he feels now despite being able to afford them easily. “We’d get a little over Rs 2 each for the jobs. Then, we’d head to a local pump set, bathe and walk with just a towel on the main road. For that money, we would get four to five idlis. Nothing can beat the satisfaction and taste that is gotten out of eating food from our own hard-earned money. I’m not getting the happiness & taste now in restaurants, which I had during my childhood,” he said. It was these memories, he noted, that inspired him to title his film Idli Kadai.

#Dhanush about #IdliKadai:

"During my childhood, I somehow want to eat Idli Daily. But I don't had money. I'm not getting the happiness & taste now in restaurants, which i had during my childhood😀. Film based on real life inspiration of my childhood♥️" pic.twitter.com/QmcxIoEvZ9

— AmuthaBharathi (@CinemaWithAB) September 14, 2025

Netizens Doubt

However, the actor’s statement sparked debate online. Many questioned whether Dhanush, being the son of director Kasthuri Raja, truly faced such struggles.

One X (formerly Twitter) user wrote, “Dhanush is the son of director. He didn't had money is blatant lie.”

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Another added, “So he is poor in his childhood, then Kasturi Raja as director never give a money to him or family is that right.”

A third user even pointed out timelines, writing, “When u r age is 8-9 years, ur father has directed 4-5 films and u r saying u don't have money to buy idli… Don’t talk just for the sake of talking.”