Neha Shetty: From Beauty Queen to Telugu Star

Neha Shetty is an Indian actress and model who primarily works in Telugu and Kannada films. Born in Mangalore, Karnataka, and raised in Bangalore in a Tulu-speaking family, she began her career as a model. She won the Miss Mangalore title in 2014 and was the first runner-up at Miss South India 2015. She made her acting debut in the Kannada romantic drama Mungaru Male 2 (2016) as Nandini.

Her Telugu debut came with Mehbooba (2018). She gained further notice with films like Gully Rowdy (2021) and a supporting role in Most Eligible Bachelor (2021). Her breakthrough arrived with the 2022 crime-comedy DJ Tillu, where she played the bold and memorable Radhika opposite Siddhu Jonnalagadda. The film’s massive success turned her into a popular face in Telugu cinema, earning her the nickname “Tillu Radhika.” She later appeared in Bedurulanka 2012 (2023), Rules Ranjann (2023), a cameo in Tillu Square (2024), and Gangs of Godavari (2024). In 2025 she featured in a special song in They Call Him OG and made her Tamil debut with a cameo in Dude. Known for her expressive performances, confidence, and striking screen presence, Neha continues to take on diverse roles and is establishing herself as a promising talent in South Indian cinema.