Bollywood, India’s thriving film industry, has often been known for its portrayal of vibrant stories and dramatic narratives. However, over the years, the landscape has evolved with actresses taking on groundbreaking roles that challenge societal norms and redefine feminism on screen. Here’s a look at 20 Bollywood actresses who have fearlessly owned bold roles and left an indelible mark on the industry.
- Vidya Balan – Known for her fearless choice of roles, Vidya took the industry by storm with her performance in “The Dirty Picture,” where she portrayed the life of Silk Smitha, owning the character with unapologetic confidence.
- Kangana Ranaut – With films like “Queen” and “Gangster,” Kangana proved her mettle as an actress who does not shy away from risky roles, breaking stereotypes with each performance.
- Priyanka Chopra Jonas – From “Fashion” to “Bajirao Mastani,” Priyanka’s bold portrayal of complex characters has made her a global icon.
- Deepika Padukone – In “Padmaavat,” Deepika played the role of Queen Padmavati with dignified strength, becoming a beacon of resilience and pride.
- Rani Mukerji – Known for “No One Killed Jessica” and “Mardaani,” Rani has played tough characters who stand up against injustice with conviction.
- Taapsee Pannu – A contemporary favorite, Taapsee has consistently chosen unconventional roles with films like “Pink,” questioning societal norms and championing women’s rights.
- Alia Bhatt – She took a significant leap with “Udta Punjab,” portraying a gritty and brutally honest role that won accolades and showcased her acting prowess.
- Kareena Kapoor Khan – Known for her versatility, Kareena’s role in “Chameli” as a street-smart sex worker was both daring and memorable.
- Sridevi – In “English Vinglish,” Sridevi made a powerful statement about a woman’s journey to self-respect and empowerment through a language barrier.
Bollywood Actresses
- Anushka Sharma – Bold choices have been her forte, evident from her performance as a producer and actor in “NH10,” a hard-hitting narrative on honor killings.
- Tabu – In “Haider,” she portrayed a complex character caught in emotional and political turmoil, showcasing her depth as an actress.
- Bipasha Basu – Bipasha embraced her bold side in “Jism,” delivering an impactful performance in one of Bollywood’s most iconic thrillers.
- Nandita Das – Known for her intense roles in films like “Fire,” Nandita has been a pioneering figure in tackling taboo subjects.
- Kajol – With her nuanced performance in “Gupt,” Kajol broke away from the traditional heroine mold, challenging norms in a thriller setting.
- Sonam Kapoor – In “Neerja,” Sonam took on the role of a real-life hero with sincerity, narrating the story of bravery against terrorism.
- Mahie Gill – Known for “Dev.D,” Mahie redefined boldness with her portrayal of modern Paro, challenging traditional character portrayals.
- Aishwarya Rai Bachchan – Her role in “Guzaarish” was a testament to her willingness to explore complex and diverse narratives with sensitivity.
- Parineeti Chopra – In “Ishaqzaade,” Parineeti presented a feisty character in a modern-day Romeo and Juliet story, showcasing her range as an actress.
- Radhika Apte – Known for her unconventional choices, Radhika’s role in films like “Parched” stands out for its bold storytelling.
- Nimrat Kaur – In “The Lunchbox,” Nimrat’s subtle yet powerful portrayal of a lonely wife brought attention to the small, everyday battles women face.
These actresses have not only accepted challenging roles but have also excelled in converting them into cinematic masterpieces, inspiring future generations to embrace boldness in storytelling. Their contributions paved the way for a more diverse and inclusive Bollywood.
