The Hindi film industry, famously known as Bollywood, has witnessed the rise of extraordinary talents over the years. As of 2024, the debate over who holds the title of the best actress in Bollywood continues to be a subjective and engaging discussion. Let’s take a closer look at some of the leading ladies who have left an indelible mark on the silver screen.
- Deepika Padukone: Born in Copenhagen, Denmark, Deepika Padukone is a luminary in the film industry. Her journey from the Kannada film “Aishwarya” to her Bollywood debut in “Om Shanti Om” has been nothing short of remarkable. With three Filmfare awards and recognition on Time Magazine’s influential people list, Padukone remains a powerhouse in the industry.
- Alia Bhatt: A Mumbai native, Alia Bhatt has seamlessly transitioned from her debut in “Student of the Year” to delivering powerhouse performances. Her portrayal in “Highway” garnered critical acclaim, earning her several Best Actress honors and Filmfare awards.
- Kiara Advani: Formerly known as Alia Advani, Kiara made a striking entry into Bollywood with “Fugly” in 2014. Her roles in “Good News,” “Bharat Ane Nenu,” and “Kabir Singh” have showcased her versatility, while her performance in the Netflix original “Lust Stories” earned her praise from both audiences and critics.
- Priyanka Chopra Jonas: An international sensation, Priyanka Chopra Jonas, started her journey with the 2002 Tamil film “Thamizhan” and made her Bollywood debut in “The Hero: Love Story of a Spy” in 2003. Winning accolades like the Padma Shri, five Filmfare Awards, and two National Film Awards, Chopra has redefined the meaning of a global icon.
- Anushka Sharma: Hailing from Bangalore, Anushka Sharma made her debut in “Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi” and has since become a force to reckon with in Bollywood. Recognized by Forbes Asia’s 30 Under 30, she has charmed audiences with her performances in films like “Sultan” and “PK.”
- Kriti Sanon: Born in New Delhi, Kriti Sanon made a striking entry into Bollywood with her debut in “Heropanti,” earning her the prestigious Filmfare Award for Best Female Debut. Subsequent roles in “Bareilly Ki Barfi,” “Luka Chuppi,” and “Mimi” have solidified her standing in the industry.
- Katrina Kaif: A British model and actress, Katrina Kaif, made her Bollywood debut in “Boom” in 2003. With hits like “Dhoom 3,” “Bang Bang!,” and “Ek Tha Tiger,” Kaif has become a household name, honored with numerous awards for her impactful performances.
- Shraddha Kapoor: Mumbai-born Shraddha Kapoor stepped into the limelight with “Teen Patti” in 2010. Known for her roles in “Aashiqui 2,” “ABCD2,” and “Chhichhore,” Kapoor has showcased her versatility as an actress and singer.
- Kangana Ranaut: Hailing from Himachal Pradesh, Kangana Ranaut has earned a reputation for her powerful roles in films like “Tanu Weds Manu” and “Gangster.” With five Filmfare awards and four national cinema awards, Ranaut is regarded as one of the highest-paid actresses in India.
- Sonam Kapoor: Daughter of actor Anil Kapoor, Sonam Kapoor Ahuja debuted in “Saawariya” in 2007. Recognized on Forbes India’s Celebrity 100, Kapoor has left an indelible mark with her performances in films like “Neerja” and “Raanjhanaa,” earning her a National Film Award and a Filmfare Award.
As the year 2024 unfolds, each of these actresses continues to contribute to the rich tapestry of Bollywood, making it a challenging task to crown a single actress as the best. The diversity of roles, the versatility of performances, and the impact on audiences make each actress a unique gem, collectively enriching the cinematic experience in the vibrant world of Bollywood. The true measure of their greatness lies in the hearts of the audiences they have moved and the legacy they leave behind in the history of Indian cinema.