Dagba Dondukov was born on 15 February 1915 in the village of Edermyk, Kizhinginsky District, Buryatia. From 1926, he studied at a school in Zun-Shanaa, in Edermeg. Participated in non-professional creative performances. In 1933, following the advice and invitation of his famous fellow countryman Choyzhi-Nima Geninov, he joined the newly opened Buryat Drama Theatre. He graduated from drama school in 1938, while continuing to perform in theatre. A performer of characteristic and comedic roles, an actor of original talent, the characters he created were marked by a vivid national character.