Annual list of young creative talents who will continue to grab the spotlight this year
By Asjad NazirFeb 03, 2024
AN EXCITING young generation of south Asian creative talent is continuing to add new elements to popular culture with a cool approach.
While some have already made an impressive mark with a brilliant body of work, others are showing real potential to be future gamechangers. They are all making themselves people to watch and very much represent the future.
Eastern Eye decided to celebrate this wonderful young group with the annual 30 under 30 list of top talents.
(Clockwise from top left) Maitreyi Ramakrishnan, Iman Vellani, Sumbul Touqeer, Ayesha Singh, Geraldine Viswanathan and Rashmika Mandanna
Iman Vellani: A stunning few years has seen the 21-year-old make an incredible impact with her superhero role Ms Marvel. She leapt from a winning web serial to making her big-screen debut in megabudget movie The Marvels. The Canadian actress has carved out an impressive place in the Marvel universe and the heart of Hollywood. There will be little to stop her from flying even higher.
Maitreyi Ramakrishnan: The talented Canadian actress has become a part of popular culture with four seasons of the hit Netflix series Never Have I Ever. The 22-year-old has laid an impressive platform for future success and has exciting projects on the way that include her forthcoming debut film The Netherfield Girls. She is also backed by an impressive cross-cultural fan base.
Ayesha Singh: The hardworking Indian actress helped carry hit drama serial Ghum Hai Kisikey Pyaar Meiin to huge success. The 27-year-old won the hearts and minds of cross-generational audiences with a powerful performance, which showed off her amazing range as an actor. All eyes are on what she will do next, and the right project will propel her to even greater heights.
Rashmika Mandanna: The actress is fast establishing herself as a pan-Indian star, which is a position that few have been able to achieve. The 27-year-old will follow up her 2023 successes Varisu (Tamil) and Animal (Hindi) with this year’s most anticipated Indian film Pushpa 2: The Rule (Telugu). The dramatically different projects in diverse languages are giving her a remarkable reach.
Geraldine Viswanathan: The Australian actress has been on an amazing run and established herself in the heart of Hollywood. The versatile 28-year-old has shown great onscreen presence in a wide variety of projects, and has been particularly brilliant in the comedy genre. She will carry on her remarkable momentum with forthcoming films Drive-Away Dolls and You’re Cordially Invited.
Sumbul Touqeer: The talented 20-yearold has already played two title roles on major Indian TV serials – following a star-making turn in Imlie with her current drama Kavya-Ek Jazbaa, Ek Junoon. The young actress has gained herself the kind of fan base across different generations that much older stars would be envious of, and has become a shining beacon of youth culture.
(Clockwise from top left) Simone Ashley, Pranali Rathod, Avantika Vandanapu, Rish Shah, Armaan Malik and Suhana Khan
Rish Shah: Several high-profile film and television projects have given the actor a lot of attention and set him up for a big future. The 26-year-old has shown off his versatility in a wide array of projects, ranging from TV and web serials to Hollywood movies. He is part of an exciting new generation of British Asian talents making a mark internationally.
Suhana Khan: There is a lot more to the 23-year-old than being the daughter of superstar actor Shah Rukh Khan. The trained actress and accomplished singer made an impactful debut in musical comedy The Archies. With the Bollywood film fraternity rooting for her, she will undoubtedly build on that first step and take giant leaps towards a special career.
Simone Ashley: Hit series Bridgerton catapulted the British actress towards brilliant global success and enabled her to rule the red carpet at high-profile events. She will return to light up screens in season three of the show this year, and is definitely on the radar of major international studios. The 28-year-old has also become a strong role model with her girl power presence.
Pranali Rathod: Just when everyone thought Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai had run out of steam, the introduction of the actress injected raw power back into the iconic drama serial. After delivering a star-making turn on the globally successful show, the 27-year-old left on a high and now has multiple options ahead of her, from more TV shows to movies.
Armaan Malik: The singing sensation has embodied a new generation with his talent, approach and impactful presence. The 28-year-old gaining momentum every year with hit songs in diverse genres and various languages means he will only get better. He very much represents the future of commercial Indian music and will cross even more boundaries.
Avantika Vandanapu: The teenager’s prolific career has seen her feature in films in different languages. Although she has appeared in Indian movies, the 19-year-old is firmly entrenched in the heart of Hollywood and will next be seen in a variety of movies that includes a remake of Mean Girls. She is smashing open doors for other young south Asians in the most inspiring way.
(Clockwise from top left) Vedang Raina, Charithra Chandran, Saloni, Megan Suri, Urooj Ashfaq and Priya Kansara
Vedang Raina: Hindi cinema is in desperate need of a young leading man and the exciting newcomer could fill that void. Although Netflix film The Archies was designed as a vehicle for star kids, the actor in his 20s made the biggest impact with a winning supporting role. Having already been compared to Ranveer Singh, he has showed enough of a spark to ignite a successful career.
Megan Suri: The 24-year-old has impressed everyone with her talent since she was a child actress. After a few years under the radar, she gained attention with an impactful performance in hit Netflix series Never Have I Ever and by headlining 2023 horror film It Lives Inside. The Indian American actress is now looking forward to taking on even bigger projects like a boss.
Urooj Ashfaq: A sensational group of English-language stand-up comedians from India are taking the world by storm. The exciting newcomer is part of that game-changing generation and made history by becoming the first Indian to win a major comedy award at the long running Edinburgh Fringe. The 28-yearold is now in a perfect position to become the first lady of Indian
Saloni: The 22-year-old music sensation has showed remarkable versality with songs in different languages, genres and styles. Whether it is with cool cover versions or delivering original tracks with her own unique stamp, the gifted British singer is quickly gaining a big reputation. With more music on the way, she is certain to do things differently and that makes her special.
Priya Kansara: The actress delivered a star-making turn as a martial arts enthusiast and aspiring stuntwoman in hit 2023 British film Polite Society. The 27-year-old showed quite comprehensively that she could lead a movie with a performance that received great acclaim. The Kung Fu-inspired comedy will spin her towards a high-kicking career ahead.
Charithra Chandran: After impactful appearances in popular serials Alex Rider and Bridgerton, the Scotland-born actress is set to hit a higher gear with forthcoming projects Pillow Talk and How toDate Billy Walsh. The talented 27-yearold is also taking creative control with the drama series Song of the Sun God, which she is co-producing.
(Clockwise from top left) Rishi Singh, Erica Robin, Kaifi Khalil, Simran Balar Jain, Asim Azhar and Shubh
Asim Azhar: The only complaint fans have with the Pakistani singer is that he does not release enough music, but concentrating on quality has given him an number of hits. The 27-year-old has also proved himself as an accomplished actor, but he is at his best when releasing top tunes and performing live. He is looking at expanding those song-driven horizons with big collaborations.
Kaifi Khalil: The Pakistani singer, songwriter and composer has made a name for himself with his unique ability to put a contemporary spin on traditional Balochi folk music. Although he is known most for his breakout super hit Kahani Suno, the 27-year-old music sensation has a growing list of top tracks and is establishing a presence on the live circuit.
Rishi Singh: The singing sensation rose from humble beginnings to win hit reality TV show Indian Idol 13. The 20-yearold from the northern Indian city of Ayodhya has dazzled audiences with his voice since then and headlined multiple shows. A fast-growing fan base, versatile vocal ability and likeability have made him one to watch in the years ahead.
Simran Balar Jain: Indian content creators have become hugely successful, but there perhaps isn’t one who is braver, more original and important than this 26-year-old. She creates enlightening reels centred on subjects that are rarely openly discussed, ranging from menstruation to sexual health, and tackles taboo issues head on. She has also launched her own product lines.
Shubh: The 26-year-old Canadian singer-songwriter is part of a Punjabi music revolution. He followed up hit singles with his acclaimed 2023 debut album Still Rollin, which became a global success. The musician has accompanied the stunning songs with sold-out performances around the world. He has created great momentum and has a growing cross-cultural fan base.
Erica Robin: The model made history in 2023 by becoming the first contestant to represent Pakistan at the global beauty pageant Miss Universe. The 25-year-old resisted political pressure to break down doors for other women in her conservative country. She raised awareness about important social causes and now has multiple paths open to her, including an acting career.
(Clockwise from top left) Ashi Singh, Anchal Sahu, Shane Nigam, Vish, Tawhid Afridi and Riar Saab
Shane Nigam: South Indian cinema has been on a stunning upward trajectory in recent years. The 28-year-old, one of the younger leading men making a mark, has delighted fans of Malayalam cinema with films including 2023 blockbuster RDX: Robert Dony Xavier. With as many as six movies on the way, the popular actor is sure to add to the impressive momentum he has generated so far.
Ashi Singh: One of the most technically gifted actresses working in India today helped power hit drama serial Meet: Badlegi Duniya Ki Reet to rack up more than 760 episodes. A stunning performance in multiple roles confirmed the 26-year-old as a huge talent and added to her body of work. That versatility and ability to take on any challenge will result in more magical moments for her.
Vish: He may only be in his 20s, but the singer has already been a huge gamechanger. By popularising Bollywood tunes while busking, he has taken Hindi film music across a new frontier. With more than 400,000 Instagram followers, he has become so popular with his performances that celebrities regularly join him on the UK streets. He has set himself up for an exciting singing career.
Anchal Sahu: The youngest in this year’s list is a teenage TV talent who has gone from child star to playing the title role in daily drama serial Parineetii. The 18-year-old has an amazing acting ability which those twice her age would be proud of. The small-screen star being that good at such a young age means she is destined for an incredible future.
Riar Saab: The rising music star is part of the generation adding a new dimension to Punjabi music. Having started as a member of hot hip-hop quartet Aavrutti, the singer-songwriter from Mumbai is making an impressive mark as a solo artist. The 24-year-old’s songs such as Obsessed, which has crossed 100 million views on YouTube, are among those setting him up for greatness.
Tawhid Afridi: The young content creator in his 20s is leading an exciting new generation helping Bangladesh make huge strides in popular culture. With more than six million YouTube subscribers, the comedic talent is most known for his laughter-filled videos that entertain many millions of viewers. He is inspiring a generation to follow in his footsteps with game-changing moves.
They were the nurses, cleaners, activists, and everyday heroes who arrived in Britain with little more than courage and determination. Now in their 80s and 90s, six women who helped rebuild the UK after the Second World War are finally getting their due in Fearless, a powerful new documentary that brings their remarkable stories to the big screen.
Launching on Windrush Day (22 June), the film will tour select cinemas across London through July, with post-screening Q&As featuring the directors and cast. It celebrates the lives of Sheila Daniel, Aileen Edwards, Maggie Kelly, Anne Gaché, Nashattar Kang, and Nages Amirthananthar, women of Caribbean, Irish, and South Asian descent who came to Britain as part of the Windrush generation and beyond.
These women, once young migrants navigating hostility, isolation, and discrimination, found strength through solidarity and built lives that left a lasting impact. From taking part in historic strikes like Grunwick to surviving the aftermath of the Notting Hill riots, their personal journeys are woven into the wider political and social fabric of the country.
Drawing on rare archival footage and emotional interviews, Fearless preserves their legacy. But beyond that, it challenges the invisibility that has long plagued immigrant women in British history books. This is more than nostalgia, it is a necessary act of recognition.
A still from Fearless showing archive footage interwoven with first-person storiesMcasso/ Screengrab
Bold stories told by those who lived them
The documentary comes from husband-and-wife filmmaking duo Damian Paul Daniel, a BAFTA-nominated cinematographer, and Noella Mingo, a director of Guyanese-British heritage passionate about amplifying overlooked voices. Their production company, They’re Watching Us, focuses on stories that defy expectation, and Fearless is no exception.
Screenings are scheduled at The Rio in Dalston (22 June), Bertha Dochouse (29 June), Genesis in Whitechapel (1 July), and The Lexi in Kensal Rise (16 July). Each screening includes a post-film conversation with the team.
At its heart, Fearless is a tribute to courage, resilience, and the quiet force of women who shaped a nation, even when history tried to forget them.
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Akshay Kumar Prabhas and Mohanlal join forces for the grand saga Kannappa
The buzz around Vishnu Manchu’s epic film Kannappa is steadily building, and now, fans finally have a date to mark. The official trailer of the much-awaited mythological action drama is set to release on 13 June, just two weeks before its global theatrical premiere on 27 June.
Star-studded ensemble brings myth to life
Directed by Mukesh Kumar Singh, Kannappa promises to bring a larger-than-life story rooted in devotion, action, and spiritual legend. The film is based on the life of the legendary Shiva devotee Kannappa, and the cast lineup is packed with big names. Alongside Vishnu Manchu in the lead, the film features major stars like Akshay Kumar, Mohanlal, Prabhas, Kajal Aggarwal, and Arpit Ranka, adding to the excitement surrounding the project.
The trailer, set to release on 13 June, is expected to offer a first look into the film’s scale, its visual storytelling, and the unique treatment of its devotional themes. Though the production team is keeping footage under wraps, industry insiders say viewers can expect a complete cinematic world built with grand visuals and intense performances, with some surprise cameos that are still being kept tightly under wraps.
Produced by Vasaraa Entertainment Worldwide, Kannappa has been in the works for several years and is positioned as one of the most ambitious mythological films in recent times. Bringing together action, emotion, and spiritual themes, the film seeks to bridge traditional lore with mainstream appeal. From high-end VFX to elaborate sets and costumes, the makers have invested heavily in creating a spectacle for the big screen.
The trailer launch on 13 June is expected to kickstart the final phase of promotions ahead of the film’s worldwide release on 27 June. With a stellar cast and an emotionally rich narrative at its core, Kannappa is being touted as a potential game-changer for the mythological genre in Indian cinema.
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A bee flew into his mouth and stung him while he was on the field
Sunjay Kapur, a prominent industrialist and polo patron, passed away at the age of 53 in the United Kingdom after reportedly suffering a heart attack during a polo match. Kapur was also known for being the former husband of Bollywood actress Karisma Kapoor.
Tragic incident on the polo field
The incident occurred during a polo match where Kapur was representing his team, Aureus. According to reports, a bee flew into his mouth and stung him while he was on the field, triggering a fatal heart attack. Despite the rapid arrival of medical assistance, he could not be revived.
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Kapur, who had a deep love for the sport, was playing against team Sujan, led by hotelier Jaisal Singh, at the time of the incident.
Business legacy
Sunjay Kapur was the son of the late Surinder Kapur, founder of the Sona Group, an influential player in India’s automotive components industry. After joining the family business in 2003, Sanjay played a key role in its expansion and global outreach. He served as chairman of Sona Comstar, a company known for its focus on electric vehicle parts manufacturing.
Educational background
Born into a prominent business family, Kapur was educated at The Doon School in Dehradun and later attended the Cathedral and John Connon School in Mumbai. He pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, specialising in Corporate Strategy and Human Resources, in London.
Personal life and marriages
Kapur's personal life often attracted public attention. He was married three times. His first marriage was to fashion designer Nandita Mahtani, which ended in 2000.
He married actress Karisma Kapoor in 2003. The couple had two children—Samaira and Kiaan—before separating in 2016. They remained committed to co-parenting their children.
Following his divorce, Kapur married Priya Sachdev, a model-turned-entrepreneur. The couple welcomed a son, Azarius, in 2018. Priya also has a daughter, Safira Chatwal, from a previous marriage.
Passion for polo
Beyond business, Kapur was deeply involved in polo, both as a player and patron. His team, Aureus, was part of various domestic and international tournaments, showcasing his commitment to the sport.
Sunjay Kapur is remembered for his contributions to Indian industry and his passion for polo. His sudden death has left the business and sports communities in shock.
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Dua Lipa confirms engagement to Callum Turner after months of speculation
After months of speculation, Dua Lipa has officially confirmed her engagement to British actor Callum Turner. The pop star shared the news in a recent interview, calling it an emotional and meaningful step in their relationship.
The couple, who have been together for over a year, first met in London and reconnected a year later under unexpected circumstances. Dua described their journey as one filled with “sliding doors moments,” including discovering they were reading the same book the night they re-met.
The story behind the ring that has everyone talking
Lipa’s engagement ring, now a regular feature on her social media, has sparked plenty of buzz. But behind the sparkle was an extremely thoughtful gesture. Turner collaborated with Dua’s sister, Rina, and her closest friends to design the piece. Set on a bold gold cigar band, the centre diamond, likely an old European cut, is estimated to be worth between £160,000 and £216,000 (₹1.6 crore to ₹2.2 crore).
“I’m obsessed with it,” Dua admitted. “It’s so me. It’s nice to know the person you’re going to spend the rest of your life with knows you that well.” She praised Turner for creating something deeply personal instead of following traditional trends.
Dua Lipa opens up about her future with Callum Turner in a recent interviewGetty Images
Fans first suspected something was up during Christmas 2024, when Dua posted a photo wearing the ring. But it wasn’t until the interview that she finally confirmed the news, saying, “Yeah, we’re engaged. It’s very exciting.”
No wedding plans yet, but the excitement is real
Dua is currently on her Radical Optimism world tour, while Turner is filming the sci-fi series Neuromancer for Apple TV. Despite the excitement, they haven’t set a date yet.
“I’ve never really thought about what kind of bride I’d be,” Dua shared. “But now, all of a sudden, I’m wondering, what would I wear?”
Callum Turner and Dua Lipa at the Met Gala Getty Images
The couple is in no rush, choosing instead to enjoy this new chapter quietly. “It’s the decision to grow old together,” she said, “and that feels really special.”
Whether taking long breaks or making unpredictable choices, Chitrangda Singh has always followed her own rhythm in a notoriously fast-paced film industry.
The ever-graceful actress adds fresh chapters to her cinematic journey with two dramatically different projects. Just a week ago, she made a splash on the big screen in the mega-budget comedy multistarrer Housefull 5, part of a popular franchise. Next, she will shift gears for Raat Akeli Hai 2 – the dark, layered Netflix sequel to the gripping whodunnit that captivated audiences during lockdown.
Her unconventional path continues with this dual release, which reflects her commitment to varied work. That approach has defined her since making a winning debut with the acclaimed 2005 film Hazaaron Khwaishein Aisi. The top talent remains driven by audience appreciation.
In a wide-ranging interview with Eastern Eye, she discussed her journey, passions beyond acting, dream role, fashion, approach to performance, and advice for young women.
Chitrangda Singh
How do you reflect on your acting journey?
I think it has been a very gratifying and exciting journey. I have taken quite a few breaks in between but feel audiences did not forget me or my work. Even when I did less, they still gave a lot of love and respect for what I had done, which for me is such a huge encouragement to keep going. It has been a very interesting life, especially because this was not something I had planned or expected to do.
Tell us about that.
It was this amazing coincidence – how (writer/director) Sudhir (Mishra) found me and I got Hazaaron Khwaishein Aisi. It felt like someone was introducing me to myself, telling me I had a talent I should explore. I am very thankful that audiences have not forgotten me. I am still here, doing exciting work.
What makes you so selective about the projects you take on?
The root cause is simply that when you do not get the kind of work you are looking for, you wait. So, it is not that I have been deliberately choosy. I just tried to pick the best from whatever came my way. Actors are offered all kinds of work. When it was not good enough, I preferred to wait rather than come under pressure to take it. All I can say is, I did not quite get the kind of work I was hoping for.
Looking back, would you have done anything differently?
If I could change something, it would probably be the long breaks I took. Those happened because of certain family commitments, which meant I had to keep going back to another city.
I was not in Mumbai all the time. Staying away – especially that seven-year break early on – meant people did forget me a little, and I had to keep making comebacks. That probably affected my career. I also wish I had stayed more focused and worked harder at times.
You have played a variety of interesting roles. Which is closest to your heart?
The film that is closest to my heart is Inkaar with Arjun Rampal. I feel my character, Maya Luthra, was a special woman. She could be strong and ambitious, and make a place for herself in a man’s world – fight for it. At the same time, she was vulnerable, emotional, and in love. Those are the contrasts we live with. I feel Maya was a beautifully written character and the one I relate to the most.
Which film project challenged you the most?
It is the one I have just completed – Raat Akeli Hai 2 for Netflix with Nawazuddin Siddiqui. It was a tough role, and Honey Trehan is a very demanding director. I had a great time and learnt a lot on set after a long while. Sometimes you get these characters that force you to change your approach. I must thank Honey for that. It was challenging, but I really enjoyed it.
What is the secret to surviving in such a competitive industry?
The secret is doing good work. I have taken long breaks, but people remember you if the work has been strong. They recall your performances and potential. I think that is the only way to survive and build a long shelf life. It is not about visibility, PR, or award shows – those help, but they do not last. Only the work does.
Chitrangda Singh
You always have great screen presence, but what is the secret to a great performance?
My understanding is that acting is not about performing, but reacting – emotionally, physically, and truthfully to a situation. That stops you from repeating yourself. In real life, you do not get angry the same way every time because the context is always different. Of course, it depends on the writing too. But if you react with honesty, without overplanning, that is the key to a great performance.
Which genre do you prefer?
I haven’t done much of it, but I love romance and good drama.
Do you have a dream role?
I have said this many times – it would be Umrao Jaan, the character Rekha played in Muzaffar Ali’s film. I find women and dancing girls from that era fascinating. They lived hard lives but were ahead of their time in many ways. They were uninhibited about their sexuality, yet deeply cultured – reading, writing poetry, and of course, dancing.
What are your biggest passions outside work?
I do not get too much time, but I love painting and charcoal sketching. I also enjoy golf and like playing it. I love trekking – I have done a lot of that in Srinagar and Jammu and Kashmir, just walking along rivers and fishing. I wish I had more time for it.
What do you enjoy watching as an audience?
I love romance. I also enjoy thrillers and drama. I especially like courtroom dramas – they are fascinating and very difficult to write well.
You are seen as a symbol of girl power. What advice would you give to women and girls?
Keep working on yourself. Make sure you are financially independent, because that leads to mental and emotional independence. If you cannot support yourself financially and rely on someone else, it becomes the worst kind of dependence – even your thoughts and opinions start relying on them. So, work on yourself, become financially stable, and be your own person.
Any other advice?
This idea of feminism where women try to be men – I do not agree with that. I think women should remain women but work hard for opportunities. Do not look for shortcuts or expect special treatment because you are a woman. Pay your dues and work as hard as any man. That is how you earn it.
Your fashion sense always stands out. What inspires your style?
My style has always been classic and casual chic. I cannot pull off over-the-top looks or heavy bling. I prefer understated and structured outfits. But honestly, I am most comfortable in jeans and a T-shirt. I always go for clean, timeless silhouettes.
If you could master something new, what would it be?
Horse riding. I have been on a horse and can manage a little, but I am not very good. A woman on a horse is so graceful. I would love to learn dressage – it is the most beautiful thing. The other thing is fishing – if I could get better at it, I would enjoy those long treks even more.
Why do you love being an actress?
The most exciting part is getting to play different characters. I love human psychology – I am curious about people and their behaviour. Working on that, picking up nuances, building new characters and becoming someone else is thrilling. And it changes every day. I feel blessed to do such varied work with so many creative people. It is an energy I thrive on.