Who is Renu Desai? Pawan Kalyan’s ex-wife returns to Tamil cinema after 26 years with Dhanush’s Om Chapter 1

After staying away from Tamil cinema for more than two decades, actor Renu Desai is ready to return to the big screen. The actress has confirmed her association with Dhanush's upcoming film Om: Chapter 1- Udhiram: The Blood Wood, which is scheduled to release in theatres on November 20, 2026. Her announcement has attracted attention, particularly because she is returning to the industry after 26 years. Renu shared the update on Instagram, writing, “See you in theatres on Nov 20.” Although she has confirmed her presence in the film, details about her character and screen time have not yet been revealed.

Who Is Renu Desai? Everything You Need To Know About Pawan Kalyan's Ex-Wife

Renu Desai is an actor and filmmaker who became popular through Telugu cinema. She made her acting debut with the 2000 Telugu film Badri, starring Pawan Kalyan. She later appeared alongside him in Johnny (2003). Apart from acting, Renu has also worked behind the camera. She directed the Marathi film Ishq Wala Love in 2014. Her recent acting appearance was in the Telugu film Kashi Majili, which was released directly on ETV Win. Her last Tamil film was James Pandu, released in 2000. With Om: Chapter 1, she will return to Tamil cinema after a gap of 26 years.

What Is Renu Desai's Role In Dhanush's Om: Chapter 1?

Directed by Rajkumar Periasamy, Om: Chapter 1 – Udhiram: The Blood Wood features a large ensemble cast. Dhanush, Mammootty, Sai Pallavi, Sreeleela, Naseeruddin Shah and Indrans are among the actors in the film. The makers have kept the storyline and several character details under wraps. The project has already attracted attention because of its cast and the combination of actors from different film industries.


At the film's audio launch in Chennai, Sai Pallavi praised director Rajkumar Periasamy for writing layered female characters. She said, “He is every actress's dream director; the way he writes his women characters rocks.”

Take a look below:

When Will Om Chapter 1 Release?

The film was initially scheduled to arrive on October 16, 2026, but was postponed to avoid a box-office clash with Rajinikanth's Jailer 2. Dhanush explained that the decision was taken out of respect for the superstar. The makers later confirmed November 20, 2026, as the new release date. Renu's return is now another reason audiences will be watching the film.