Over the past few years, Bollywood has seen a sharp rise in self-made actors. They’ve connected deeply with the audiences purely on the basis of their drive to perform. They aim to grow, reinvent, and soar past the formulaic rules of attaining success. Here’s looking at the top five actors who’ve redefined what it means to actually ‘make it’ in Bollywood!
Pooja Hegde: Pooja Hegde is celebrated as the ultimate pan-Indian artist. She has worked with some of the most celebrated actors and directors in the South and Hindi belt. She delivered blockbuster hits, some of which include Beast, DJ, Maharshi, Housefull 4, and others. Whether it’s about seeping deep into the nuances of a particular character, the birthday girl excels. She has earned the moniker of a hookstep queen. She has risen to become the top choice for classic commercial films.
Triptii Dimri: Triptii Dimri is paving her way to stardom. She is doing this purely on the basis of her hard work. She has a clear sense to make careful film choices. From Laila Majnu, Qala, and Bulbbul to the recently released Dhadak 2, Triptii has created a body of work. It screams ‘performance’. With each film and each character, she has proven herself. She is a dedicated outsider. She stands shoulder to shoulder with some of her acclaimed peers.

Ayushmann Khurrana: Over the past few years, Ayushmann Khurrana has created a unique niche of his own. His screen choices mirror society and human behavior. They also sometimes reveal the unseen sides of it. Ayushmann Khurrana has starred in films like Andhadhun, Article 15, Badhaai Ho, Dreamgirl and others. Each choice is strikingly different from the other. This is what makes Ayushmann Khurrana a standout performer!
Rajkummar Rao: Rajkummar Rao has earned himself the title of a versatile performer. With films like Srikanth, Trapped, Stree, Shaadi Mein Zaroor Aana, and others, he has constantly chased newness and reinvention. He is driven to shed layers of the past. He enters new zones. This drive has made him one of the most in-demand actors of today’s time.
Bhumi Pednekar: Bhumi Pednekar is known for breaking screen barriers. She makes bold choices whether it’s Dum Laga Ke Haisha, Badhaai Do, Toilet: Ek Prem Katha, and others. Each of her films carries strong messages about body positivity, sanitation, hygiene, and many sensitive aspects. At times when actresses often choose the predictable path, Bhumi Pednekar has often taken creative risks, and they’ve worked!
These actors are proving that success is no longer measured by box office numbers. It’s assessed based on an actor’s knack to go beyond the imaginable!

