Gilli Nata

Gilli Nata, popularly known by his stage name, is a rising comedian, actor, and entertainer in the Kannada television and digital content space, known for his vibrant personality, rustic humour, and relatable performances that resonate with audiences across Karnataka. Hailing from a humble rural background, Gilli has carved his way into the entertainment industry through sheer talent and persistence, becoming a household name among Kannada viewers. 

Early Life & Background

Gilli Nata was born as Malavalli Nataraj on April 5, 1996, in the village of Matadapura in Malavalli, Mandya district, Karnataka. Growing up in a farming family, he completed his early education locally and later pursued a two-year course at an Industrial Training Institute (ITI). While Nataraj initially dreamt of becoming a director, financial constraints and limited opportunities led him to shift paths towards performance and entertainment. 

Education & Early Career

After completing his schooling and ITI, Gilli relocated to Bengaluru with aspirations of entering the entertainment field. In the early years, he worked behind the scenes on film and TV sets, assisting in art departments while honing his skills in scriptwriting and comedy. His natural flair for humour and storytelling found an outlet when he began creating short films and comedy skits that highlighted everyday life, social quirks, and cultural nuances — often performed in the Mandya Kannada dialect, giving his work an authentic and widely relatable feel. 

Film & Television Career

Gilli’s breakthrough came with his participation in reality and comedy shows. He first gained public attention as the first runner-up in Comedy Kiladigalu Season 4, which provided him strong visibility and recognition as a comic performer. He further expanded his footprint by appearing on TV programs such as Dance Karnataka Dance and Bharjari Bachelors, showcasing his energetic performances and punch-line humour. His work earned him the Best Entertainer Award from Zee Kannada, cementing his popularity among audiences. Beyond television, Gilli has contributed to the entertainment industry with roles that highlight his versatility, including skits, appearances in web content, and an entry into cinema with a role in Challenging Star Darshan’s film The Devil, where he is seen in a powerful new avatar that impressed fans and critics alike. 

Bigg Boss Kannada Season 12

Gilli Nata’s journey reached a defining milestone with his triumphant win in Bigg Boss Kannada Season 12, marking the peak of his rise in the entertainment space. Entering the Bigg Boss house with a strong rural-rooted identity, he quickly emerged as one of the most influential and talked-about contestants of the season. His spontaneous humour, sharp one-liners, and fearless attitude made him a constant source of entertainment, while his smart gameplay and emotional clarity helped him navigate tough situations with confidence.

Throughout the season, Gilli Nata stood out as an underdog who transformed into a mass favourite, earning immense love from audiences for his authenticity and unfiltered personality. His ability to balance comedy with calculated game strategies, along with his willingness to take a stand when it mattered, played a crucial role in securing the title. Winning Bigg Boss Kannada Season 12 not only brought him the prestigious trophy, ₹50 lakh prize money, Kiccha Sudeep gave him personally 10 Lakh rupees, and a brand-new car, but also elevated his popularity to new heights, firmly establishing him as one of the most memorable winners in the show’s history.