Darshan Thoogudeepa is one of the contemporary actors of Kannada cinema. He is a noted actor, producer, and distributor in Sandalwood. He is known for his performances in hit movies like 'Namma Preethiya Ramu', 'Kalasipalya', 'Gaja', 'Sarathi', 'Bulbul' etc. Darshan Thoogudeepa was born on 16 February 1977 to popular Kannada actor Srinivas Thoogudeepa who is one of the most menacing villains in Kannada cinema. At a very young age, Darshan got enrolled in a theatre training institute in Shimoga, Ninasam against his father's wish.  After graduating from Ninasam, Darshan started doing projection and later became an assistant cameraman to veteran cinematographer BC Gowrishankar. Darshan marked his acting debut by appearing in S Narayan television show. Then he played a supporting role in the 1997 released Mahabharatha movie. Darshan received his major break with 'Majestic' movie in 2001.  In 2006, Darshan ventured into Film Production under his own production house Thoogudeepa Productions with 'Jothe Jotheyali' movie which became a big hit at the box office. He first distributed his 2013 released 'Bulbul' movie.  Darshan won two Filmfare Awards, two SIIMA awards, and two Suvarna film awards. He also became Bangalore Press Club Man Of The Year in 2012. Darshan received Karnataka State Film Award for Best Actor in 2013.  Darshan married a chemical engineering student Vijayalakshmi in 2003 at Dharmasthala Temple. They have a son Vineesh. Apart from acting, Darshan who is an animal lover also runs his own mini zoo in the forest of Mysuru near Malavalli. The act also has a passion for cars and bikes.  In 2011, Darshan got involved in controversy when his wife complained to police accusing him of domestic violence. He got arrested and spent 14 days in the judicial custody at Parappana Agrahara. However, the couple settled their issues out of court and reconciled. Darshan also issued a public apology for his fans. 

Born : February 16, 1977