Actresses Who Made It Big In Bollywood On Their Own: Deepika Padukone, Kangana Ranaut To Triptii Dimri

Breaking into Bollywood is no simple task and requires immense hard work for an outsider to make it big. While debate about nepotism and star kids often hogs attention, today let's take a look at some of the self-made actresses of Bollywood. We must say it has been their sheer determination and raw talent, that has helped them reach for the stars and become Bollywood number 1.

Hailing from a small town in Uttarakhand, Triptii Dimri has come a long way and made a huge mark in Bollywood. She made her acting debut with Poster Boys (2017), where she shared the screen with Bobby Deol, Sunny Deol, and Shreyas Talpade. However, it was her debut as a lead in Imtiaz Ali’s Laila Majnu (2018) that truly showcased her potential. The film, which enjoyed a re-release this year, brought her into the spotlight and opened the doors for more critically acclaimed roles. From the eerie and beautiful Bulbbul to the poetic Qala, and commercial successes like Animal and Bad Newz, Triptii has steadily built her career and proven her talent. Her rising stardom even earned her the endearing title of 'National Crush'. Her rise, without any family backing in the industry, shows that dedication and talent can pave the way for success. Her upcoming projects including Vicky Vidya Ka Woh Wala Video, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, Dhadak 2, and an action thriller with Vishal Bharadwaj further solidify her as one of the prominent leading ladies of Bollywood. 

Coming from the beautiful Himachal Pradesh, Kangana Ranaut swept everyone off their feet with her brilliant acting chops in Anurag Basu’s Gangster. She proudly holds four National Film Awards and in 2020, was honoured with the Padma Shri, the country's fourth-highest civilian award. She has featured in several hit films and turned to politics in 2024 by winning the Lok Sabha election from Mandi.

Though Aishwarya Rai Bachchan is often associated with beauty pageants, her foray into Bollywood came after she won the Miss World title in 1994. She didn’t come from a film background, yet her grace and acting skills quickly set her apart. From her early successes in films like Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam to critically acclaimed roles in Devdas, Jodhaa Akbar, and Guzaarish, Aishwarya’s career has been a remarkable journey of talent and dedication. Despite having no direct connections in the industry, she became one of Bollywood's most iconic stars.

Hailing from a non-film background, Priyanka Chopra carved out a unique space for herself in Bollywood before making waves internationally. After winning the Miss World title in 2000, she made her Bollywood debut with The Hero: Love Story of a Spy (2003). Over the years, she has delivered memorable performances in films like Barfi!, Mary Kom, and Bajirao Mastani. Her ability to adapt and reinvent herself, both in India and Hollywood, makes Priyanka a global superstar, proving that with hard work and ambition, anything is possible.

Before becoming the global icon she is today, Deepika Padukone started her journey with no connections in the film industry. Born to a badminton champion father, she initially followed in his footsteps, but her true passion for acting eventually led her to Bollywood. Deepika made her debut with Om Shanti Om (2007) alongside Shah Rukh Khan, and there was no looking back. From her powerhouse performances in Padmaavat, Piku, and Chhapaak to becoming one of the highest-paid actresses in Bollywood, Deepika’s journey is a true example of success through perseverance.

Anushka Sharma, a model-turned-actress, made her Bollywood debut opposite Shah Rukh Khan in Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi (2008). With no film connections, she quickly gained recognition for her talent and natural charm. Her performances in films like Band Baaja Baaraat, NH10, and Ae Dil Hai Mushkil established her as one of Bollywood's most versatile actresses. Anushka not only succeeded as an actress but also made her mark as a producer with her company, Clean Slate Filmz, further solidifying her place in the industry.