A number of Indian celebrities started their careers in music. While some of them starred in music videos, others appeared as backup dancers or made cameos in Bollywood musical numbers.
At the time, their appearances lit up the songs and helped make them popular, but over time, most of them have been forgotten or been lost in the mists of time.
With all that in mind, Eastern Eye went back through time to find cameos of stars before they became famous.
Sushant Singh Rajput: Today the versatile actor is a bankable Bollywood star who shows off his impressive range of high-profile films. He started his journey as a dancer in the Shiamak Davar Troupe, which led to him being a backup dancer to Hrithik Roshan in the title song for hit film Dhoom 2.
Nawazuddin Siddiqui: Today the in-demand actor gets substantial roles in high-profile films, but at the beginning of his career, he played small roles for a long time. One of these minor roles was him dressing up as a desi Elvis lip-syncing the song Emotional Atyachar in the Anurag Kashyap-directed film Dev.D.
Deepika Padukone: The current queen of Bollywood started her career as a sought-after model, who appeared in a diverse range of projects. One of her early assignments was being the eye-candy in Himesh Reshammiya’s 2006 music video for the song Naam Hai Tera. Hindi cinema took notice and a year later, she made her Bollywood debut in Om Shanti Om opposite Shah Rukh Khan.
John Abraham: The popular Bollywood actor started off his career as a much skinnier award-winning model. Before getting his big break in 2003 thriller Jism, Abraham appeared in a number of music videos, including Chupke Chupke by Pankaj Udhas and Surma by Jazzy B. He also appeared in music videos for singers Hans Raj Hans and Babul Supriyo.
Bipasha Basu: The Bollywood actress first captured the attention of audiences with various modelling assignments including one rather saucy advert. She also made a memorable appearance in Sonu Nigam’s music video for the song Tu from his 1998 album Kismat before making her Bollywood debut in 2001 film Ajnabee.
Riya Sen: The Bengali actress hails from a famous film family, but first shot to fame by appearing in a music video as a teenager in singer Falguni Pathak’s 1998 song Yaad Piya Ki Aane Lagi. The hit track did wonders for the career of Falguni and Riya, who went to act in films in a number of languages and became a pin up.
Ayesha Takia: The actress got her big break, thanks to dandiya queen Falguni Pathak. Before Ayesha made the leap to the big screen, she had a starring role in the music video for the 2000 song Meri Chunnar Udd Udd Jaye, which became a global hit. Four years later, she made her Bollywood debut in 2004 film Taarzan: The Wonder Car.
Malaika Arora: One of the hottest faces of the big screen, Arora is famous for her spicy item numbers. Before lighting up the screen with her envy-worthy body, the Bollywood beauty appeared in music videos when she was less well known. One of these songs was the Bally Sagoo remix of Malkit Singh’s song Gur Naal Ishq Mitha.
Shahid Kapoor: The popular star has risen through the ranks to become an award-winning actor and being declared the sexiest Asian man on the planet, in 2017. Before starting his amazing acting journey, Shahid appeared as a backup dancer in songs for the movies Dil To Pagal Hai and Taal. He also appeared as a love-struck youngster in the song Aankhon Mein Tera Hi Chehra by the music band Aryans.
Priyanka Chopra: The former Miss World has become a major international movie icon and perhaps the most famous Indian female film star right now. Before hitting the big time, the teenage Priyanka appeared in Daler Mehndi’s music video for the song Sajan Mere Satrangiya, from the hit album Ek Dana.
Vidya Balan: Acclaimed actress Vidya Balan started her career on television. Before finding fame in Bollywood, she appeared in the music video of prominent band Euphoria’s song Kabhi Aana Tu Meri Gali, which was a major hit in 2003. She made
an award-winning Bollywood debut two years later in 2005 drama Parineeta.
Sameera Reddy: Another star who got a big break, thanks to ghazal maestro Pankaj Udhas was actress Sameera Reddy. She was a teenager when she appeared in his music video for the song Aur Aahista in 1997. Five years later she made her Bollywood debut opposite Sohail Khan in the 2002 film Maine Dil Tujhko Diya.
Drashti Dhami: Today Drashti Dhami is one of the biggest television stars in India. She started off her career as a model and had a number of winning turns in music videos before finding global fame. She appeared in music videos for various artists in songs including Saiyyan Dil Mein Aana Re, Humko Aaj Kal Hai, Teri Meri Nazar Ki Dori and Nachle Soniyo Tu.
Nimrat Kaur: The talented actress worked as a model at the beginning of her career and first came to attention when she starred in the 2004 music videos of hit songs Tera Mera Pyar and Yeh Kya Hua, which were sung by Kumar Sanu and Shreya Ghoshal, respectively. She also starred in the hit 2013 film The Lunchbox.
Dia Mirza: The beauty queen-turned-actress appeared in various songs before finding fame, including as a backup dancer in Tamil film En Swasa Kaatre. She also starred in a music video for the Asha Bhosle song Na Marte Hum, which also featured Aashish Chaudhary, a respected film and television actor. In 2001, Dia made her cinematic debut in the romantic drama Rehnaa Hai Terre Dil Mein.
Amrita Rao: The actress worked as a model and got her big break playing the lead role in the music video for the Alisha Chinai song Woh Pyar Mera in 2002. Later that year the star made her Bollywood debut in action romance Ab Ke Baras.
Dino Morea: The model-turned-actor made a forgettable cinematic debut in Pyaar Mein Kabhi Kabhi in 1999. A year later, he re-emerged with a chiselled physique in the music video for Abhijeet’s song Yaad Karne Se, which grabbed global attention in 2000. He also appeared in Abhijeet’s music video for the song Koi Lauta De Woh Pyare Pyare Din. Two years later Dino starred in mega-hit horror film Raaz.
Neha Dhupia: The actress was crowned as the Femina Miss India 2002. Dhupia also did various modelling campaigns and appeared in a music video of Indi-pop band Euphoria’s 1998 song Sha Na Na Na. In 2003 she made her film debut in the thriller Qayamat: City Under Threat.
Mallika Sherawat: The glamour girl quit her job as an air hostess and worked as a model. Her real name was Reema Lamba. It was during her struggling days that she appeared in a music video for Punjabi singer Surjit Bindrakhia’s song Lak Tunu Tunu. In 2002 she made her Bollywood debut with a supporting role in Jeena Sirf Merre Liye.
Gauahar Khan: Before she became a multi-talented film and television star, the actress worked as a model and also appeared in some music videos including Bombay Vikings’ stunning cover version of the classic song Hawa Mein Udati Jaaye. But her most famous music video appearance was after she found fame in the Rahat Fateh Ali Khan song Zaroori Tha, which has been viewed over 312 million times on YouTube.
In an exclusive interview with Eastern Eye, Kajol pulls back the curtain on her most daring role yet. Forget the dimples and that signature bindi for a moment. Kajol, the powerhouse we know for fiery roles and infectious energy, is stepping into chilling new territory. Her upcoming film, Maa, which hits screens on 27 June, isn’t built around cheap jump scares. It’s a raw look at the everyday fears that haunt parents, especially mothers. Chatting with her felt less like a fluff piece and more like an honest heart-to-heart.
Kajol wastes no time explaining what makes Maa stand out. “We’re tackling things mainstream cinema tiptoes around,” she says. “Child safety. The constant pressure of raising kids. The unspoken worries when you have a daughter. Even menstruation.” She lets each topic hang in the air before adding, “That’s exactly what drew me to it. It’s a gripping horror story, yes, but it’s also a chance to sneak in conversations most of us avoid.” Her hope however is simple: people might not dissect every theme consciously, but they’ll walk away questioning what we accept as “normal.”
Stills from the trailer of MaaInstagram/devgnfilms
A horror newcomer finds her groove
Fans know Kajol for her loud performances, energy and fiery roles. In Maa, though, her character radiates a quiet, simmering intensity. Did she have to unlearn her signature style? "Not unlearn," Kajol clarified, "but I was a total horror newbie!" She confessed she rarely watches the genre. "I walked in blind. I had no idea how emotionally and physically draining it would be." The biggest surprise? Finding the right pitch. "Horror has its own frequency. My director, Vishal Furia, kept gently nudging me, 'Ma’am, this is horror. You need to sync with the audience's fear, there are things happening behind."
Stills from the trailer of MaaInstagram/devgnfilms
Three decades in: Embracing freedom
With almost thirty years on screen and sky-high expectations, taking on something so different might sound daunting. Not to Kajol. “Daunting? Nah. I feel free. Freer than most, honestly." She dismissed the idea of proving anything. "I’ve never been in the rat race. I don’t have that 'chase, chase, chase' ambition. I’m perfectly happy chilling at home for a year or two, waiting for something that truly sparks my interest." Ironically, her 33rd year is her busiest in two decades. "But it’s because I want to work, not because I have to. Work is part of my life, not my whole life. That balance is very important to me."
Stills from the trailer of MaaInstagram/devgnfilms
Behind the scenes: Producer’s hat
Wearing a producer's hat this time, was there a hill she was willing to die on creatively? Kajol quickly deflected praise. "Honestly, huge credit goes to Ajay Devgn. He was the driving force ensuring 'Maa' looks and feels premium. Ajay made sure Maa looks and sounds top notch,” she admits. “In today’s world, a movie must hit a certain visual and technical bar just to get noticed.” From VFX and music to the film’s overall vibe and marketing push, they poured everything into creating a polished experience. “We can’t wait to see how audiences react on the 27th.”
Stills from the trailer of MaaInstagram/devgnfilms
The Real Takeaway? Just Enjoy Yourself
So, what big truth does Maa hold up for viewers? Kajol cut through expectations: “It’s not a preachy film. You won’t leave thinking, ‘Oh, that was the lesson!’” Instead, she insists, “You might have more fun than you expect. This one sneaks up on you.” For her and Ajay, that’s the point: “We make films to be felt and savoured, not overanalysed. So, relax and feel it and just have a lot of fun.”
Playing a mother pushed beyond reason in Maa. So, how did Kajol the real-life mom handle that? “Protecting your child is primal,” she says without hesitation. What shook her most was her character’s unyielding grit. “In reality, most of us would crumble under that kind of pressure. But she keeps going, even when all hope seems lost. That drive like that ‘I have to do something’ energy, that’s what I want everyone to take away.”
Kajol’s journey with Maa is all about confronting societal shadows and embracing genre challenges she never saw coming. This is a film that confronts real fears head on, guided by a performer unafraid to strip away artifice. Ready to see Kajol like never before? Maa arrives 27 June.
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Facing strong criticism on social media for questioning the survival story
Actor and singer Suchitra Krishnamoorthi has issued a public apology after facing strong criticism on social media for questioning the survival story of Vishwas Kumar Ramesh, the sole survivor of the recent Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad.
Deleted post sparks backlash
The controversy began when Krishnamoorthi, known for her role in Kabhi Haan Kabhi Naa, shared a now-deleted post on X (formerly Twitter) alleging that Vishwas Kumar Ramesh had fabricated his account of surviving the 12 June crash. In her post, she wrote: “So this #vishwaskumarramesh lied about being a passenger on the plane & the only survivor? This is seriously weird. Didn't his family in the UK corroborate his story? What about his brother's funeral that he was seen giving kandha to? Deserve not only some serious punishment but some mental asylum time if this is true uff.”
Krishnamoorthi deleted the post and issued a statement of apologyX/ suchitrak
Her comments appeared to have been influenced by unverified social media speculation claiming that Ramesh’s survival narrative was false. The post drew significant backlash from users who criticised her for spreading misinformation and making insensitive remarks without confirmation.
Public apology issued
In response to the mounting criticism, Krishnamoorthi deleted the post and issued a statement of apology, also on X. She wrote: “Took out my last tweet on the Air India crash survivor. Seems to be false news circulated for God knows what reason. My apologies.”
The apology was shared on 19 June 2025, but reactions have remained mixed, with some social media users accepting the clarification while others questioned the haste in making the original accusation.
Who is Vishwas Kumar Ramesh?
Vishwas Kumar Ramesh, a 40-year-old British national, is the only known survivor of the Air India crash that occurred in Ahmedabad on 12 June. The crash claimed the lives of at least 260 people.
Ramesh was reportedly seated in seat 11A, close to an emergency exit on the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, and managed to escape the burning aircraft. He was treated for injuries at Ahmedabad Civil Hospital and was later seen attending the funeral of his brother Ajay, who also boarded the same flight to London but did not survive.
Suchitra Krishnamoorthi’s comments on social media questioning the legitimacy of a plane crash survivor’s account have drawn widespread criticism. Following the backlash, she deleted the post and issued a public apology, admitting the claim was based on false information.
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Real life inspires me more than fiction: Jay Thakkar on acting, ambition and human truths
Starting his journey on stage at the tender age of four, Jay Thakkar has grown up in front of the camera, having transformed from a precocious child performer into a versatile actor known for compelling roles across television, web, and cinema.
Whether mimicking dance moves in competitions as a child or biting into dark, psychologically complex characters as an adult, Thakkar has always approached his craft with sincerity, resilience, and emotional depth. His latest project, Bhool Chuk Maaf, a time-loop Bollywood film, was recently released on Amazon Prime. It marks yet another bold turn in a career built on fearless choices. In this exclusive interview with Eastern Eye, he reflects on key roles, lessons learned, working with legends, what drives him as an artist, and his future. He also shares fond memories of working with the late actor Sushant Singh Rajput.
Jay Thakkar
How do you reflect on your journey as an actor?
As a child, I participated in various competitions and often found myself mimicking actors and dance performances. These early experiences instilled in me a love for performance and storytelling. Over the years, facing both opportunities and rejections, I’ve grown as an actor and individual. Each experience, whether triumphant or challenging, has shaped my perspective and deepened my commitment to the craft. Performing never felt like a task – it felt like expression. These collective experiences have given me an understanding of resilience, humility, and growth – lessons I still carry with me every day.
Which of the roles has been closest to your heart?
The role of Sethji in Colors TV’s Laagi Tujhse Lagan holds a special place in my heart. Produced by Paresh Rawal and Hemal Thakkar, this character took me on an emotional journey – from innocence to a young gangster, and finally to a heartbroken child dealing with his mother’s incarceration. Adopting the ‘tapori Bambaiyaa’ accent and portraying a lower-middle-class chawl boy added layers to the character. This role allowed me to explore a wide emotional spectrum, making it both challenging and rewarding. It taught me that even in a limited arc, if the emotions are real, they leave a lasting impact.
Which project challenged you the most as an actor?
Portraying psycho-terrorist Muzammil in Sony LIV’s Adrishyam was one of my most demanding roles. The character was sociopathic, merciless, and completely devoid of empathy. In one intense scene, he bites off his father’s ear and, during interrogation, chews on his own nails – highlighting how unhinged he is. Sharing the screen with Divyanka Tripathi, who played an Indian secret agent, added further intensity to the performance. It pushed me to dive deep into the psyche of someone emotionally detached from humanity. I had to access a kind of darkness I had never explored before – it changed me as an actor.
Does your approach change between film and television?
Yes and no. Technically, film allows more time for introspection and preparation, while television trains you to think on your feet. But emotionally, my commitment remains the same. Whether it is a 30-second scene or a three-minute monologue, I aim to serve the character with authenticity and heart. The medium may shift, but my mindset is always rooted in honesty and empathy. Television’s fast-paced nature demands quick adaptability, often with limited preparation time.
Jay Thakkar
And what about film?
In contrast, films allow for deeper exploration of character and more time to develop nuance. But regardless of the medium, my approach stays consistent: understand the character’s psyche fully and deliver a performance that resonates with the audience.
What was the experience of working on Bhool Chuk Maaf?
It was a transformative experience. I spent months preparing – working with a dialect coach and immersing myself in Banaras to learn the local slang and tone. That preparation was essential to bring authenticity to the role. Working alongside Rajkummar Rao, Wamiqa Gabbi, and legends like Sanjay Mishra ji and Seema Pahwa ji was enlightening.
Do any moments from the shoot stand out?
Yes, one in particular. During a dance sequence, Rajkummar and director Karan Sharma sir noticed my energy and insisted I join the song, even though I had not rehearsed. Their encouragement made me feel valued and reinforced the collaborative spirit on set. There was a deep respect for the craft throughout the team. When you are surrounded by such passion, it does not feel like work – it feels like purpose.
You also worked with Sushant Singh Rajput on Pavitra Rishta. What are your fondest memories of him?
Sushant bhaiya was pure magic on set. He stayed grounded, no matter how much fame came his way. He would joke with me, share his food, and talk to everyone like a playful, innocent child. He once told me, “Never stop being a student of life,” and that has stayed with me. He was not just an actor – he was a thinker, a dreamer, and a beacon of humility. I fondly remember him stealing theplas from my tiffin during shoots.
Jay Thakkar
Tell us more about your time working with him.
Even as his fame grew, he remained humble and generous with his time. He encouraged me and offered guidance. His dedication to acting and his authenticity left a lasting impression. One of my favourite memories is him telling me to stay curious and keep learning – advice I live by today.
What can audiences expect next from you?
I am looking forward to the release of my next film, Apna Amitabh. I am also part of a web series titled Pranksters. I have done several high-profile ads and am in talks for new film and series projects that will begin soon. Right now, I am focused on roles that challenge me and say something meaningful. I am not in a rush, but I am hungry for layered storytelling.
Do you have a dream role?
I am drawn to characters that challenge societal norms and explore deep emotional layers. I would love to play a morally grey protagonist – someone who is flawed, yet relatable. Such roles let you explore the full range of human behaviour and complexity. I would love to play a conflicted revolutionary – someone who walks the line between right and wrong and makes the audience think. Such characters allow you to show both strength and vulnerability.
Who is your acting hero?
Shah Rukh Khan has always inspired me. His journey from humble beginnings to global stardom shows what passion and dedication can achieve. His emotional range and authenticity on screen are remarkable. Internationally, I admire Denzel Washington – the intensity and depth he brings to every role is powerful. Both actors prove how cinema can transform and move people.
Jay Thakkar
If you could master something new, what would it be?
I would love to master calisthenics, martial arts, and classical Indian dance. These disciplines train not only the body but also the mind and spirit. As an actor, your body is your instrument. The more control and expression you develop, the more powerful your performance becomes – sometimes without saying a single word.
What inspires you as an actor?
Real life inspires me more than fiction ever could – the flaws, contradictions, and hopes people carry. I observe unspoken gestures – a tired smile, a long pause, a look of doubt. Every person is carrying a story, and as an actor, it is my job to honour that with honesty. The struggles and triumphs of everyday people drive my passion. Everyone has a unique narrative, and I want to bring those stories to life with empathy and truth. The human experience is endlessly rich – and it reminds me why cinema matters.
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Janhvi Kapoor and Shikhar Pahariya walk the streets of London together fans react to viral video
Actor Janhvi Kapoor was recently spotted in London, walking hand-in-hand with rumoured boyfriend Shikhar Pahariya in a video that has since gone viral. Captured by a passerby, the clip shows the duo casually strolling through the streets. Dressed in relaxed outfits, Janhvi in a black tube top and joggers, and Shikhar in a mint green tee with white trousers, the pair looked at ease in each other’s presence. Janhvi’s sister Khushi Kapoor was also seen walking nearby, playing third wheel.
While Janhvi and Shikhar have never publicly confirmed their relationship, moments like these continue to fuel speculation. From dinner outings to joint appearances at major events, the signs have long been there. Janhvi has also worn a necklace with Shikhar’s name in the past, and he frequently posts photos of her on social media.
This isn’t the first time the internet has buzzed with talk of the two. Their quiet presence together over the years, including a joint appearance at this year’s Cannes Film Festival for the premiere of Janhvi’s upcoming film Homebound, has kept fans guessing. The film, directed by Neeraj Ghaywan, also stars Ishaan Khatter and Vishal Jethwa.
Janhvi had briefly opened up about her dynamic with Shikhar on Koffee With Karan Season 8. When Karan Johar cheekily asked if she had gone back to dating Shikhar after a break, Janhvi smiled and said, “Have you heard that song Nadaan Parindey Ghar Aaja? Shikhar used to sing that to me a lot.”
Shikhar Pahariya's Instagram post on Diwali Instagram/shikharpahariya
Shikhar Pahariya, the grandson of former Home Minister Sushilkumar Shinde and son of producer-actor Smruti Shinde, has kept a relatively low profile despite the public curiosity. His brother, Veer Pahariya, recently debuted in Bollywood with Sky Force.
What’s next for Janhvi Kapoor
Janhvi, meanwhile, has a packed schedule. She stars in Param Sundari, a romantic comedy with Sidharth Malhotra set in Kerala, releasing on 25 July. She’s also reuniting with Varun Dhawan for Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari, a family entertainer slated for September. A sports-action film titled Peddi, co-starring Ram Charan and scored by AR Rahman, is also on the list for 2026.
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Kuberaa Twitter reviews call Dhanush’s performance his best and praise Sekhar Kammula’s storytelling
Sekhar Kammula’s Kuberaa, starring Dhanush, Nagarjuna, and Rashmika Mandanna, hit theatres on 20 June and has quickly made waves online. Reactions across social media, particularly Twitter, have described the film as a bold, emotionally rich crime drama with standout performances, especially from Dhanush. Audiences have called it a “rare gem” in today’s commercial landscape and one of the best Telugu-Tamil bilingual films of 2025 so far.
Dhanush’s career-best, Rashmika’s surprise, and Nagarjuna’s steady hand
The highlight of most audience reviews is Dhanush’s performance, hailed by many as his “career-best” and even “National Award-worthy.” His portrayal of Deva, a beggar caught in a complex web of crime and morality, has been described as transformative and deeply immersive. One viewer wrote that few actors could pull off such a layered character with the same mannerisms in multiple avatars. Fans have also praised Rashmika Mandanna, calling this her strongest performance yet. Her portrayal is described as subtle yet powerful, giving the character both vulnerability and resilience. Nagarjuna’s presence, though noted to be slightly underused, was still appreciated for its gravitas and emotional weight.
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Sekhar Kammula’s direction was lauded for steering clear of formulaic mass elements, there are no item numbers or excessive heroism and instead relying on a grounded narrative. Viewers appreciated the film’s quiet intensity, emotional pacing, and the director’s ability to build tension without gimmicks. Cinematographer Niketh Bommireddy received special praise for his frames and lighting, with many calling the visuals “painterly” and emotionally charged. Devi Sri Prasad’s background score was also credited for amplifying the film’s emotional beats.
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Long runtime, uneven pacing but still worth the ride
Despite widespread acclaim, some viewers felt Kuberaa’s three-hour-plus runtime could have been tighter. A few pointed out that the second half dragged slightly and the climax felt rushed compared to the strong build-up. Others mentioned that some of Kammula’s philosophical themes did not fully land in execution. Still, even the critics agreed the film is a worthwhile experience that deviates from standard commercial fare.
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In all, Kuberaa is being celebrated as a rare cinematic effort: emotionally grounded, superbly acted, and visually distinctive. Whether or not it’s a perfect film, audiences seem to agree that this is Dhanush’s show, and it’s one worth watching.