
Soniya Akula, a dynamic actress and social activist whose presence in Bigg Boss Telugu Season 8 added emotional depth and bold energy to the show.
Film & TV Career
- Debut Film: George Reddy (2019) – Played George Reddy’s sister
- Notable Roles:
- Coronavirus (2020) – Directed by Ram Gopal Varma, played Shanthi
- Aasha Encounter (2022) – Lead role as Aasha
- Vyooham (2023, Amazon Prime) – Played Nirmala Dixit
- Jhansi (2022, Disney+ Hotstar) – Played Shwetha
- The Womb and The Flower – Short films showcasing her range
She’s known for portraying intense, socially relevant characters, often in films that tackle real-life issues.
Bigg Boss Telugu Season 8 Journey
- Entered the house on September 1, 2024
- Evicted on Day 28, after four weeks of gameplay
- Returned briefly for a twist episode, nominating fellow contestants Nikhil and Prerana
Her time in the house was marked by emotional openness, strong opinions, and a willingness to confront difficult topics.
Background & Education
- Born: May 31, 1993
- Birthplace: Gajulapally Village, Manthani Mandal, Peddapalli District, Telangana
- Education:
- B.Tech in Computer Science – Bhoj Reddy Engineering College for Women, Hyderabad
- LLB and Postgraduate studies in Sociology
Before entering the entertainment industry, she worked as a corporate professional and theatre artist, blending analytical thinking with creative expression.
Personal Life
- Spouse: Yashpal Veeragoni (married in 2024)
- Parents: Chakrapani and Malleshwari Akula
- Siblings: One brother and one sister
She’s known for maintaining a grounded, family-oriented lifestyle while pursuing a bold public career.
Activism & Philanthropy
- Founder of: AASA Foundation – Focused on social awareness and education
- Frequently seen engaging with school children and promoting causes like women’s safety and rural development
Her activism is deeply tied to her film choices, often selecting roles that reflect her values.
Personality Snapshot
- Strengths: Bold, empathetic, socially conscious, articulate
- Languages: Fluent in Telugu, Hindi, English, and Tamil
- Hobbies: Reading, dancing, swimming, yoga, and meditation
- Public Persona: A mix of activist fire and cinematic flair