From the past few years, there’s a debate going on that in Bollywood star kids get into movies easily and make it big in the industry because of their family name. It is true that a star kid might easily get his first film, however, we cannot ignore that the industry has supported talented actors and actresses as well.
Today, let’s look at the list of actresses who have made it big in Bollywood without having a filmy family background.
Vidya Balan
Not many would know that Vidya Balan started her career with the small screen in the TV serial Hum Paanch. She was then going to star in a Malayalam film with Mohanlal, but eventually, it was shelved. Vidya was then going to star in a couple of films down South but was replaced by other actresses. She then made her acting debut with a Bengali film titled Bhalo Theko and finally, she made her Bollywood debut with Pradeep Sarkar’s Parineeta. Today, Vidya is one of the most talented and credible actors of Bollywood.
Kangana Ranaut
Do we have to say why we have Kangana in the list? With her first film, Gangster, Kangana proved her mettle as an actress and then went on to star in some other remarkable movies. She has won three National Awards and we won’t be surprised she wins more in the future. Kangana also made a successful directorial debut this year with the film Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi.
Katrina Kaif
A lot of people would feel that Katrina Kaif is a star because of Salman Khan. Maybe, the actor supported her initial in her career, but we cannot ignore the hard work Katrina has done to reach where she is right now. From an actress who couldn’t speak Hindi properly to an actress who is nowadays giving some fantastic performances.
Anushka Sharma
From being a model to an actress to a film producer, Anushka Sharma’s journey is surely inspiring. She made a confident debut opposite Shah Rukh Khan in Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi and then there was no looking back for her. In her career spanning of more than a decade, Anushka has given some fantastic performances in movies like Band Baaja Baaraat, Jab Tak Hai Jaan, NH10, Sultan, Ae Dil Hai Mushkil, Pari, etc.
Deepika Padukone
Deepika Padukone entered the glamour industry as a calendar model. She then featured in many advertisements and a couple of music videos. It was in 2007 when she made her Bollywood debut with Om Shanti Om. Deepika has proved her mettle as an actress and just like Anushka, she will also be turning a producer with her upcoming film Chhapaak.
Taapsee Pannu
Taapsee Pannu made her Bollywood debut with Chashme Baddoor in 2013. Well, after that movie no one thought Taapsee will be seen in a Bollywood film again. But it was in 2015 when Taapsee made a mark with just an extended cameo in Baby and then there was no looking back. She went on to star in some amazing films like PINK, Naam Shabana, Mulk, Badla and more.
R Madhavan shares his experience portraying a father’s role for the first time alongside Ajay Devgn.
Actor addresses rumours about de-ageing technology, confirming he relied on diet and fitness instead.
Madhavan reflects on sequels and preparation for previous physically demanding roles like Saala Khadoos.
Nervous about a father’s role
At the trailer launch of De De Pyaar De 2, R Madhavan admitted he was initially nervous about playing Ajay Devgn’s on-screen father-in-law.
“I have never done a father’s role before, and competing with Ajay, I was very nervous,” Madhavan said. “I have seen other actors who are so busy when they come to the set, but Ajay sir is always present and dedicated. We have always felt connected.”
The actor also commented on the appeal of sequels. Devgn, who stars alongside Madhavan, stated, “I don’t mind sequels as long as there is a good script. I hope the film is liked by audiences. We all believe we have made a good film.”
Madhavan addressed recent rumours about de-ageing technology in his films, stating, “They’ve all been accusing me of de-ageing, but I don’t think I have the budget for that. It hasn’t happened.”
Instead, the actor relies on traditional methods of preparation, including fitness and diet adjustments, to meet the physical demands of roles.
Reflections on past roles
Madhavan reflected on the preparation for his earlier role in Saala Khadoos, a physically demanding sports drama. “When I went to train for Saala Khadoos, I consulted numerous dieticians and several people who advised me on how to lose weight and get fit, what diet to follow, what time to eat, and so on, but I couldn’t find anyone I truly resonated with,” he said.
The actor’s candid reflections reveal a focus on dedication and personal preparation rather than technological shortcuts, highlighting his commitment to authentic performances.
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