Bollywood Actresses, Bollywood, one of the largest film industries in the world, has produced some of the most talented and iconic actresses who have captivated audiences for decades. From delivering box office blockbusters to receiving prestigious awards, these actresses have set benchmarks in the Indian film industry.
In this article, we take a closer look at the top 10 Bollywood actresses who have made a significant impact through their performances, influence, and popularity. Whether it’s their acting skills, fashion statements, or global recognition, these women have redefined success in Bollywood.
1.Deepika Padukone: The Reigning Queen of Bollywood
Notable Films: Padmaavat, Bajirao Mastani, Chennai Express, Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani
Awards: 3 Filmfare Awards, TIME 100 Most Influential People
Why She’s on the List:
Bollywood Actresses, Deepika Padukone is one of the most accomplished actresses in Bollywood, known for her exceptional performances, global appeal, and charismatic screen presence. She made her Bollywood debut in 2007 with Om Shanti Om, opposite Shah Rukh Khan, and quickly established herself as a leading actress. Over the years, she has delivered some of the biggest blockbusters in Bollywood history, including Padmaavat, which grossed over ₹500 crores worldwide.
Her career is defined by versatility and depth, as seen in her performances in critically acclaimed films like Piku, Tamasha, and Chhapaak. In addition to her success in Bollywood, she made a mark internationally with her Hollywood debut in XXX: Return of Xander Cage alongside Vin Diesel.
Apart from acting, Deepika is a strong advocate for mental health awareness. She founded the Live Love Laugh Foundation, which focuses on supporting individuals dealing with depression and anxiety.
Fun Fact: Before becoming an actress, Deepika was a national-level badminton player, following in the footsteps of her father, legendary badminton player Prakash Padukone!
2.Alia Bhatt: The Versatile Powerhouse
Notable Films: Gangubai Kathiawadi, Raazi, Gully Boy, Highway
Awards: National Film Award, 5 Filmfare Awards
Why She’s on the List:
Bollywood Actresses, Alia Bhatt is one of Bollywood’s most talented and bankable actresses, known for her incredible range, emotional depth, and ability to carry films on her shoulders. She made her debut in 2012 with Student of the Year, a glamorous role that introduced her as a young star. However, she quickly moved beyond commercial films to prove her acting prowess with Highway (2014), a performance that won her critical acclaim.
Since then, Alia has delivered some of Bollywood’s most celebrated films, including the patriotic thriller Raazi, where she played an Indian spy, and Gully Boy, which was India’s official entry for the Academy Awards. Her career-defining role came with Gangubai Kathiawadi, for which she won the National Film Award, proving she is among Bollywood’s finest performers.
Alia has also expanded her career internationally with her Hollywood debut in Netflix’s Heart of Stone alongside Gal Gadot, making her one of the few Bollywood stars with a global presence. Apart from acting, she is an entrepreneur, having launched her sustainable clothing brand, Ed-a-Mamma, promoting eco-friendly fashion.
Did You Know? Alia Bhatt is a trained singer and has sung multiple songs in her films, including Samjhawan and Ikk Kudi!
3.Priyanka Chopra: The Global Icon
Notable Films: Bajirao Mastani, Barfi!, Fashion, Don 2
Awards: National Film Award, Padma Shri, TIME 100 Most Influential People
Why She’s on the List:
Bollywood Actresses, Priyanka Chopra is one of Bollywood’s most successful and globally recognized actresses. Her journey to stardom began in 2000 when she won the title of Miss World, which paved the way for her entry into Bollywood. She made her acting debut with The Hero: Love Story of a Spy (2003) and soon rose to fame with critically acclaimed performances in films like Fashion (which won her a National Film Award) and Barfi! (2012).
Her versatility as an actress is evident in a diverse range of films, from powerful women-centric stories (Mary Kom, The Sky Is Pink) to high-energy commercial hits (Don 2, Krrish). However, what truly sets Priyanka apart is her ability to break into Hollywood. She made history as the first South Asian actress to headline an American primetime TV show with Quantico and has starred in major Hollywood films, including Baywatch and The Matrix Resurrections.
Beyond acting, Priyanka is a philanthropist and humanitarian, serving as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador. She is also a successful entrepreneur with her haircare brand, Anomaly, and a published author with her memoir Unfinished.
Fun Fact: Priyanka Chopra was originally set to study aeronautical engineering before entering the entertainment industry!
4.Katrina Kaif: The Box Office Queen
Notable Films: Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara, Tiger Series, Dhoom 3
Awards: Zee Cine Awards, Screen Awards
Why She’s on the List:
Bollywood Actresses, Katrina Kaif is one of Bollywood’s most successful actresses, known for her stunning screen presence, exceptional dance skills, and box office dominance. She made her Bollywood debut in 2003 with Boom, but it was Maine Pyaar Kyun Kiya (2005) and Namastey London (2007) that established her as a leading actress. Over the years, she has delivered multiple ₹300-crore blockbusters, including Tiger Zinda Hai and Dhoom 3, making her one of Bollywood’s most bankable stars.
Katrina is celebrated for her ability to pull off high-energy dance numbers, with chartbusters like Sheila Ki Jawani, Chikni Chameli, and Kala Chashma becoming cultural phenomena. Her performances in films like Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara and Raajneeti showcased her growth as a serious actress beyond glamour roles.
Apart from acting, she is a fitness icon and entrepreneur, having launched Kay Beauty, a successful cosmetic brand that promotes inclusive and cruelty-free beauty products.
Did You Know? Katrina wasn’t fluent in Hindi when she started her career but worked tirelessly to master the language and improve her dialogue delivery over the years!
5.Kareena Kapoor Khan: The Timeless Diva
Notable Films: Jab We Met, 3 Idiots, Bajrangi Bhaijaan
Awards: 6 Filmfare Awards
Why She’s on the List:
Bollywood Actresses, Kareena Kapoor Khan, fondly known as Bebo, is a Bollywood icon who has maintained her star power for over two decades. Born into the legendary Kapoor family, she made her debut in 2000 with Refugee and quickly gained recognition for her versatile performances. Her breakthrough role as the vibrant and talkative Geet in Jab We Met remains one of Bollywood’s most beloved performances.
Kareena has balanced commercial blockbusters and critically acclaimed films, starring in some of the highest-grossing Bollywood films, including 3 Idiots and Bajrangi Bhaijaan. She has also impressed audiences with intense roles in films like Chameli, Omkara, and Jaane Jaan, proving her acting depth and versatility.
Despite taking breaks for motherhood, Kareena made a powerful comeback and continues to be one of Bollywood’s most sought-after actresses. She is also known for setting trends in fashion, fitness, and endorsements, making her an influential public figure.
Fun Fact: Kareena Kapoor was the first Bollywood actress to have her own emoji on Twitter, solidifying her status as a social media sensation!
6.Anushka Sharma: The Self-Made Star
Notable Films: NH10, Pari, Sultan, PK
Awards: Filmfare Award for Best Supporting Actress
Why She’s on the List:
Bollywood Actresses, Anushka Sharma is a self-made Bollywood star who has earned success through hard work, talent, and smart career choices. She made her debut in 2008 with Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi opposite Shah Rukh Khan, immediately making a mark with her natural acting and strong screen presence. She quickly became known for her versatile roles, effortlessly transitioning from romantic comedies like Band Baaja Baaraat to intense performances in films like NH10 and Pari.
One of the highest-paid actresses in India, Anushka has delivered multiple blockbuster hits, including PK, Sultan, and Ae Dil Hai Mushkil. However, her impact goes beyond acting—she is also a powerful producer. Through her production house, Clean Slate Filmz, she has backed bold and unconventional projects, including Bulbbul and the critically acclaimed web series Paatal Lok, which helped reshape female-led storytelling in Bollywood.
Apart from her film career, Anushka is known for being part of one of India’s most powerful celebrity couples, having married Indian cricket captain Virat Kohli. The couple is admired for their philanthropy, sustainability initiatives, and immense fan following.
Did You Know? Anushka Sharma was a model before entering Bollywood and was initially hesitant about acting as she aspired to build a career in fashion!
7.Vidya Balan: The Queen of Content Cinema
Notable Films: The Dirty Picture, Kahaani, Sherni
Awards: National Film Award, 6 Filmfare Awards
Why She’s on the List:
Bollywood Actresses, Vidya Balan is a trailblazer in Bollywood, known for her bold choices and powerful performances. Unlike many actresses who rely on commercial glamour roles, Vidya has carved a niche in content-driven films, proving that a strong story and a talented actress can carry a film to success without the need for a male lead.
She made her Bollywood debut with Parineeta (2005), an adaptation of Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay’s novel, and immediately impressed critics. However, it was her sensational performance in The Dirty Picture (2011) that cemented her status as a powerhouse performer, earning her a National Film Award. She continued to break stereotypes with thrilling and unconventional roles in Kahaani, Tumhari Sulu, and Sherni, proving that women-led films can be both critically and commercially successful.
Beyond acting, Vidya is known for her outspoken stance on body positivity and gender equality in the film industry. She has been instrumental in reshaping Bollywood’s portrayal of female protagonists.
Fun Fact: Before making it big, Vidya faced multiple rejections in the film industry and was even replaced in a dozen South Indian films before getting her big break in Bollywood!
8.Shraddha Kapoor: The Youth Sensation
Notable Films: Aashiqui 2, Stree, Saaho
Awards: Stardust Award for Best Actress
Why She’s on the List:
Bollywood Actresses, Shraddha Kapoor is one of Bollywood’s most beloved actresses, known for her charming screen presence, versatility, and immense social media influence. She made her Bollywood debut with Teen Patti (2010) but gained massive stardom with Aashiqui 2 (2013), a romantic drama that became a cult favorite and a box office hit. Her role as the soft-spoken yet emotionally intense Aarohi made her a household name.
Since then, Shraddha has proven her versatility by exploring multiple genres—from horror-comedy (Stree) to action-packed films (Baaghi series, Saaho). Stree, in particular, became one of Bollywood’s biggest sleeper hits, proving her ability to carry a film as a solo female lead.
Apart from acting, Shraddha is also an accomplished singer, having lent her voice to several songs in her films. With over 80 million Instagram followers, she is one of India’s most-followed celebrities, making her a favorite among brands and advertisers.
Fun Fact: Shraddha Kapoor is the daughter of veteran actor Shakti Kapoor, but she carved her own path to stardom without relying on her family name!
9.Kriti Sanon: The Emerging Superstar
Notable Films: Mimi, Luka Chuppi, Adipurush
Awards: National Film Award
Why She’s on the List:
Bollywood Actresses, Kriti Sanon has quickly risen to fame as one of Bollywood’s most promising actresses, known for her impressive performances, effortless charm, and versatility. She made her Bollywood debut in Heropanti (2014), which earned her the Filmfare Award for Best Female Debut. However, she proved her acting prowess over time by taking on diverse roles beyond commercial entertainers.
Her career-defining moment came with Mimi (2021), where she portrayed a young woman who becomes a surrogate mother. Her powerful performance in the film won her the prestigious National Film Award for Best Actress, cementing her place as one of the industry’s most talented performers.
Kriti has also found success in romantic comedies and action-packed films, starring in hits like Luka Chuppi and Bareilly Ki Barfi. She has worked alongside Bollywood’s biggest stars and is now exploring bigger projects, including high-budget mythological films like Adipurush.
Beyond acting, Kriti is a trained classical dancer and a fitness enthusiast. She has also launched her own fitness brand, The Tribe, showcasing her commitment to health and wellness.
Fun Fact: Kriti holds a degree in engineering and had no prior connection to the film industry before making it big in Bollywood!
10.Kiara Advani: The Rising Icon
Notable Films: Kabir Singh, Shershaah, Satyaprem Ki Katha
Awards: IIFA Award for Best Actress
Why She’s on the List:
Bollywood Actresses, Kiara Advani has rapidly emerged as one of Bollywood’s most sought-after actresses, delivering multiple box office hits in a short span. She made her Bollywood debut with Fugly (2014), but her breakthrough role came in the biographical sports drama M.S. Dhoni: The Untold Story (2016), where she played Sakshi Dhoni, winning audience appreciation for her natural performance.
Her career skyrocketed with Kabir Singh (2019), where she played the lead opposite Shahid Kapoor. The film became one of Bollywood’s highest-grossing films, making Kiara a household name. She followed it up with Shershaah (2021), where her portrayal of Dimple Cheema in the war biopic won her critical acclaim.
Kiara has successfully balanced romantic, action, and comedy roles, starring in diverse films like Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 and Satyaprem Ki Katha. Her rising stardom has also made her a brand favorite, landing major endorsements with top fashion and beauty brands.
Fun Fact: Kiara Advani’s real name is Alia Advani, but she changed it on Salman Khan’s suggestion to avoid confusion with Alia Bhatt!
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