Y. Kasi Viswanath developed an interest in cinema from childhood, inspired by his uncles who owned a film theatre. He pursued a B.Com degree at Raja Mahendravaram but was drawn to filmmaking after witnessing a shoot by director K. Balachander. He began his career as an assistant director under Vijaya Nirmala and later worked with Suresh Productions, contributing as co-director to films like Preminchukundam Raa (1997) and Kalisundam Raa (2000).
His directorial debut Nuvvu Leka Nenu Lenu (2002) was a blockbuster, followed by Tholi Choopulone (2003), which launched Nandamuri Kalyan Ram’s career. In 2008, director Ravi Babu offered him an acting role in Nachavule, which became his breakthrough as an actor. Since then, he has appeared in more than 90 films, often portraying father figures and supporting roles, earning respect as both a filmmaker and actor in Telugu cinema.