Indraja is one of the most graceful and versatile actresses in South Indian cinema. Known for her charming screen presence, expressive acting, and natural grace, she has acted across Telugu, Malayalam, Tamil, and Kannada films. Today, she is a widely recognized household name due to her presence on popular Telugu television shows, especially as a judge on Sridevi Drama Company.

From starting as a child artist to becoming a leading actress in the 90s, taking a break, and then reinventing herself as a strong television personality — her journey is inspiring and remarkable.

Quick Facts About Indraja

✨ Early Life & Background

Indraja, originally named Rajathi, was born in Chennai to a Telugu Brahmin family. She grew up in a culturally rich atmosphere, surrounded by classical music and literature. She learned Carnatic music and developed a deep interest in the performing arts from a very young age.

She trained in Kuchipudi classical dance, which laid a strong foundation for her later success on the big screen. Her interest in acting started during her school days when she participated in cultural programs, stage performances, and drama competitions — often winning top prizes.

Indraja first appeared in films as a child artist, including roles in Tamil cinema. However, her true entry into the industry as a lead actress came a few years later.

🎬 Entry Into Films & Breakthrough in Telugu Cinema

Indraja’s entry into Telugu cinema happened with a bang. Her debut film Yamaleela (1994), directed by S.V. Krishna Reddy, became a massive success. The film’s comedy, fantasy elements, and Indraja’s expressive acting made her a popular face overnight.

Her character “Lilly” in Yamaleela remains iconic and is still remembered by Telugu audiences.

Why Yamaleela Was a Game Changer:

• Unique storyline blending fantasy and comedy
• Strong emotional moments
• Music by S.V. Krishna Reddy
• Indraja’s expressive face and natural performance
• Box office success across Andhra Pradesh and Telangana

This film opened the doors for her across multiple industries.

🌟 Rise in South Indian Cinema

After Yamaleela, Indraja became one of the most sought-after actresses in Telugu and Malayalam films.

She worked with top actors including:

• Mohanlal
• Mammootty
• Jayaram
• Suresh Gopi
• Rajendra Prasad
• Srikanth

Her ability to balance performance-oriented roles with glamorous characters made her a favorite among directors.

🎬 Movies Acted by Indraja (Filmography)

Telugu Films

Malayalam Films

Tamil Films

Kannada Films

📺 Transition to Television

After her successful film career, Indraja took a small break from movies post-marriage. During this time, she focused on family life and motherhood. Later, she made a graceful comeback — this time to television, where she quickly became a household name.

She appeared in several TV serials and established herself as a matured, powerful performer.

🎤 Becoming a Judge – Jabardasth & Sridevi Drama Company

Indraja’s second innings on TV became even more popular when she joined comedy reality shows as a jury member.

Jabardasth

Indraja joined Jabardasth, one of the top comedy shows in Telugu. She became known for her pleasing personality, sensible feedback, and motherly affection towards contestants.

Audiences praised her for:

• Honest yet soft judging
• Encouraging feedback
• Cultural and artistic observations
• Perfect comedic timing in interactions

🌟 Indraja as Judge in Sridevi Drama Company

Indraja is currently one of the key judges on Sridevi Drama Company, a highly popular sketch-comedy show on ETV.

About the Show:

• Produced by Mallemala Entertainments
• Hosted by Rashmi Gautam
• Known for comedy skits, dance shows, celebrity appearances

Indraja’s presence as a judge adds grace and balance to the show.

Why Audiences Love Her in Sridevi Drama Company:

✔ Positive & Motivational Feedback
✔ Ability to understand emotions in skits
✔ Graceful personality and natural smile
✔ Strong understanding of acting, dance & comedy
✔ Great chemistry with other judges & contestants

She has become a favorite judge, loved for her grounded nature.

💖 Personal Life of Indraja

Indraja married Mohammed Absar, an actor and businessman. Their inter-religious marriage made headlines, but the couple shares a strong bond built on love and mutual respect.

They have one daughter, Sara, who is often featured in family interviews and photos.

Indraja took a break from acting after becoming a mother but returned stronger, proving that women can balance family and career gracefully.

🎭 Acting Style & What Makes Her Special

Indraja is often admired for:

• Natural acting style
• Expressive eyes and facial emotions
• Strong dialogue delivery
• Classical dance background
• Ability to perform in emotional, humorous, and glamorous roles

Her transition from films to television is smooth because she adapts easily to every medium.

🌈 Legacy & Impact

Indraja’s journey has inspired many young actors, especially women, who look up to her for balancing personal life with a demanding career.

Her legacy includes:

• Popular lead actress of the 90s
• Worked with top stars across industries
• Respected judge on Telugu TV
• Role model for working mothers
• A symbol of grace, dignity, and simplicity

Her consistent presence in entertainment for nearly 3 decades speaks volumes about her dedication.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Indraja

1. Who is Indraja?

Indraja is a South Indian actress best known for her work in Telugu, Malayalam, Tamil, and Kannada films. She is currently a popular television personality and one of the judges on Sridevi Drama Company.

2. What is Indraja’s real name?

Indraja’s real name is Rajathi. She adopted the screen name “Indraja” when she entered Telugu cinema.

3. Which movie made Indraja famous?

Indraja became widely popular after her role as Lilly in the blockbuster Telugu movie Yamaleela (1994).

4. Is Indraja a judge in Sridevi Drama Company?

Yes. Indraja is currently a judge on Sridevi Drama Company, where she shares her experience in acting, dance, and performance arts.

5. In which languages has Indraja acted?

Indraja has acted in four major South Indian languages:

• Telugu
• Malayalam
• Tamil
• Kannada

6. Who is Indraja’s husband?

Indraja is married to Mohammed Absar, who is an actor and businessman.

7. Does Indraja have children?

Yes. Indraja has one daughter, named Sara.

8. What are some popular movies of Indraja?

Some of her notable films include:

• Yamaleela
• Ustaad
• Chronic Bachelor
• Mayilattam
• Egire Paavurama

9. Did Indraja work in Malayalam films?

Yes. Indraja is very popular in Malayalam cinema and has appeared in major films like Ustaad, Chronic Bachelor, Ben Johnson, and Mayilattam.

10. What is Indraja’s role in television?

Indraja has worked in TV serials and has become a well-known judge on comedy and performance-based shows like Jabardasth and Sridevi Drama Company.

11. Is Indraja trained in classical dance?

Yes. Indraja is a trained Kuchipudi dancer, which enhances her screen presence and expressive performances.

12. When did Indraja start her acting career?

Indraja began her career as a child artist and later became a lead actress with her first major film Yamaleela in 1994.

13. Is Indraja active in films today?

Yes. While she is more active in television, Indraja continues to act in selected film roles and special appearances.

14. What makes Indraja popular on Sridevi Drama Company?

Her honest judging, warm personality, expressive reactions, and ability to understand both comedy and dance performances make her one of the most admired judges.

15. Where can fans follow Indraja?

Fans can follow Indraja on Instagram and other social platforms where she shares updates about her shows, family moments, and personal life.