It’s amazing how some Indian actors transcend borders and eras, becoming cultural icons with their unmatched talent and magnetic charisma on screen. Bollywood is full of them. Take Shah Rukh Khan, for example—he’s the guy who made an entire generation believe in love through most of his roles.
It’s wild to think about how far Indian cinema has come. Shah Rukh and others like him have put Bollywood on the map, making their mark not just in India but around the world. These actors have shown that Indian cinema is about so much more than cricket and spices; it’s about heart, passion, and stories that are relatable globally.
Aamir Khan
Image Credit: Reliance
One of the biggest names and most dedicated Indian actors is Aamir Khan and for good reason, after all, he is Mr. Perfectionist. He earned the name because of how he approaches every project with such passion and dedication. His level of perfectionism shines through in his works as an actor and producer in Lagaan. The film holds a special place in Indian cinema history since it bagged an Oscar nomination and showcased India on the world stage. Beyond headlining blockbusters, Khan stepped behind the camera with Taare Zameen Par and delivered one of the most heartwarming on-screen tales ever told. The film sparked real conversations about learning disabilities and education systems in India.
Off-screen, Aamir is just as impactful, his TV show Satyamev Jayate tackled social issues like female infanticide, caste discrimination, and water conservation with a refreshing sincerity that got the entire country talking. As both an actor and activist, he’s putting Bollywood on the map while using his platform to inspire meaningful change.
Priyanka Chopra Jonas
Image Credit: ABC
Though this compilation is not solely based on commercial success, it would be impossible not to include one of India’s highest-paid actresses. By the time she was 18, Priyanka Chopra Jonas won the Miss World pageant and soon enough burst onto the movie scene in Thamizhan. From that point, she went on to take Indian cinema to new heights while shattering boundaries for Indian representation in movies.
Chopra’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. Whether it’s the pride of winning Miss World, portraying admirable roles, or standing up for causes like gender equality and children’s rights, her range is vast. As a UNICEF ambassador, her humanitarian work speaks volumes, showing how she uses her platform to uplift others and inspire people.
Hrithik Roshan
Image Credit: Viacom18 Studios
When talking about some of the best Indian actors, Hrithik Roshan is a must-mention. The guy literally came out the gate swinging in Kaho Naa… Pyaar Hai and for anyone who’s ever attempted his dance moves, it’s clear the man is in a league of his own. With his killer looks, insane dance moves, and pretty impressive acting, Hrithik basically became Bollywood royalty overnight.
But what’s truly impressive about him is that he’s not just a pretty face, over the years, he’s shown he’s got range, taking on roles like the superhero in Krrish and the blind guy seeking revenge in Kaabil. Hrithik’s constantly pushing himself to do new things, which is why he’s got this insane dedication that’s earned him respect in Bollywood.
Ranbir Kapoor
Image Credit: Reliance Entertainment
When you’re born into a Bollywood legacy, it kind of feels like you’ve already got a head start, right? Coming from a family of legends, with his dad Rishi Kapoor and granddad Raj Kapoor both being icons, you could say stardom was in his blood. But what makes him stand out is how he’s made a name for himself with roles like the emotional Barfi! and the raw intensity of Rockstar.
Ranbir Kapoor doesn’t play it safe, which is exactly why he stands out in Bollywood. He takes on roles that break the mold, like his performances in Jagga Jasoos and Tamasha. By pushing boundaries and embracing different genres, he’s solidified himself as one of the most dynamic actors in Bollywood.
Amitabh Bachchan
Image Credit: K Sera Sera
When talking about the greatest Indian actors, Amitabh Bachchan is a name that dare not be skipped. He’s been a massive force since the 70s, with timeless hits like Sholay and Zanjeer. Now in his 80s, he’s still owning every role, like his performance in the heartwarming Paa.
However, what makes Bachchan so legendary is his ability to transform. He’s not just the big, bold hero you remember from his early days—he’s played everything from a sensitive father in Baghban to a sharp lawyer in Pink. His versatility and sheer talent have set the bar for every actor in Bollywood, and he’s shown us time and again that he’s not just the past—he’s still making waves in the industry.
Nawazuddin Siddiqui
Image Credit: Reliance Entertainment
Unlike some on this compilation, Nawazuddin Siddiqui didn’t start with a famous last name or a flashy debut, matter of fact it was as if he came out of nowhere. In Gangs of Wasseypur, Siddiqui’s portrayal of Faizal Khan felt like he brought a real person to life. He was that good, after all, it was one of two films that gained him recognition, the second being Black Friday.
But what makes him so inspiring is that he built his career with sheer talent. He didn’t have the silver spoon or connections, he just worked hard. At a stage in his acting career, he lived in a flat he shared with four other people mainly because he was out of work. He’s living proof that with dedication, anyone can make it to the top, and now his name is on everyone’s lips.
Shah Rukh Khan
Image Credit: Pen Studios
To earn the title of king of Bollywood is no child’s play, yet Shah Rukh Khan has managed to own it so well. It’s no surprise he’s one of, if not, the most successful Bollywood actors of all time. He started with small roles, he worked his way up to being the face of Bollywood romance with movies like Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge. But what makes Khan so special is how he’s stayed at the top for so long considering that the film industry is a tough game, and trends change faster than the seasons.
Over the years, he’s built this empire off films that blend romance, drama, and intensity, while giving back to the industry. Off-screen, his philanthropy through the Meer Foundation shows his dedication to causes like child healthcare and women’s empowerment. Add that to his unmatched charm and global appeal, and you’ve got an actor who’s built a career on influence.
Deepika Padukone
Image Credit: Yash Raj Films
Only a few can proudly say they have conquered several fields like Deepika Padukone. She went from dominating the badminton courts to gracing the runway before ultimately becoming one of Bollywood’s biggest stars. Padukone has time and time again shown her acting prowess, from her debut, Om Shanti Om to her performance in Padmaavat.
But what really makes her stand out is how she’s turned her fame into something meaningful. Through her foundation, Live Love Laugh, she’s been breaking mental health stigmas for nearly a decade. With the way she uses her platform for good, it’s easy to see why she’s considered one of Bollywood’s top actors.
Anupam Kher
Image Credit: UTV Motion Pictures
When you think of iconic Indian actors or Bollywood greats, veteran Anupam Kher’s name shines like a beacon. He’s played everything from the hilarious dad in Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge to the charismatic head chef in Hotel Mumbai. What’s impressive is how he nails every role, like he’s lived those lives. Furthermore, aside from being a great actor, he is also making waves as a filmmaker, TV host and writer.
However, what stands out about him is how he’s stayed relevant for decades. He’s done over 500 films, served as the chairman of an acting school, and let’s not forget his work in global cinema particularly in movies like Silver Linings Playbook. You’ve got to hand it to him—he’s changing what it means to thrive in Bollywood and beyond.
Irrfan Khan
Image Credit: 20th Century Fox
Irrfan Khan wasn’t the loudest actor or flashiest star, but he had this calm, quiet demeanour that stood him out, even when he wasn’t saying much. Perhaps that’s why his performance in Lunchbox felt very relatable like he was sharing in his quiet, almost heartbreaking loneliness. What really set Irrfan apart was how he brought India’s talent to the world stage. In films like Life of Pi and Jurassic World, he showed that Bollywood wasn’t just about color and song—it had depth. Beyond just acting; he was connecting cultures, proving that a great story can be understood by anyone, no matter where they’re from.
