Top 10 Indian Actor in 2025

Here’s a list of 10 Indian actors who have made significant contributions to the world’s largest film industry

1. Amitabh Bachchan

Amitabh Bachchan Also known as “Big B”, Amitabh Bachchan is a legendary actor who has dominated Bollywood for over five decades. He is known for his versatility, iconic baritone voice, and powerful screen presence.

Amitabh Bachchan, born as Amitabh Srivastava on October 11, 1942, is an Indian actor who has left an indelible mark on Hindi cinema. His cinematic journey spans over five decades, during which he has portrayed pivotal roles in over 200 films. Let’s delve into the early chapters of his life and the beginnings of his illustrious career:

Birth and Education

• Amitabh Bachchan was born in Allahabad (now Prayagraj), India.
• His father was the renowned Hindi poet Harivansh Rai Bachchan, and his mother was the social activist Teji Bachchan.
• He received his education at Sherwood College in Nainital and later attended Kirori Mal College, University of Delhi.

Film Debut

• Bachchan’s film career commenced in 1969 when he lent his voice as a narrator in Mrinal Sen’s film “Bhuvan Shome”.
• However, it was in the early 1970s that he gained widespread popularity with notable films like “Anand,” “Zanjeer,” “Roti Kapada Aur Makaan,” and more.
• His intense on-screen performances earned him the moniker of India’s “angry young man” during this period.

Stardom and Iconic Roles

• Bachchan’s dominance in the Indian film industry during the 1970s–80s led the French director François Truffaut to describe it as a “one-man industry.”
• Some of his iconic films include “Deewaar,” “Sholay,” “Kabhi Kabhie,” “Amar Akbar Anthony,” “Coolie,” and “Shahenshah.”
• His versatility and acclaimed performances extended to movies like “Namak Haraam,” “Abhimaan,” “Majboor,” and “Chupke Chupke.”

Resurgence and Later Years

• After a break from acting in the 1990s, Bachchan made a remarkable comeback in 2000 with the film “Mohabbatein.”
• Subsequently, he starred in successful and acclaimed movies such as “Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham,” “Black,”“Piku,” and “Pink.”

Amitabh Bachchan remains an enduring legend in Indian cinema, celebrated for his talent, charisma, and enduring impact on the silver screen.

2. Aamir Khan

Aamir Khan is a prominent actor known for his method acting, social activism, and critically acclaimed films. He is one of the most respected actors in Indian cinema.

Aamir Khan, also known as “Mr. Perfectionist” in the Indian film industry, is a highly successful Bollywood actor, filmmaker, and television personality https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aamir_Khan. His career spans over 30 years and he is considered one of the most influential actors in Indian cinema.

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Here’s a glimpse into Aamir Khan’s journey:

• Early Life and Beginnings: Born in 1965, Khan comes from a filmy background – his father was a film producer and his uncle a renowned director . He started his acting career as a child artist in the 1970s but his full-fledged acting debut came in the late 1980s.
• Rise to Stardom: The romantic drama “Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak” (1988) marked Khan’s breakthrough as a lead actor. The 1990s saw him deliver a string of successful films like “Dil” and “Raja Hindustani,” solidifying his position as a top star.
• Accolades and Recognition: Khan is not just about box-office numbers – he’s a critically acclaimed actor as well. He has received numerous awards, including the prestigious Filmfare Award for Best Actor and Padma Bhushan, one of India’s highest civilian honors.
• Known For:  Khan is known for his versatility, taking on diverse roles and pushing boundaries. He’s also famous for his meticulous preparation for each character, earning him the “Mr. Perfectionist” title. Some of his most notable films include “Lagaan” (nominated for an Academy Award), “Taare Zameen Par” (dealing with dyslexia), and “Dangal” (based on the story of female wrestlers).
• Beyond Acting: Khan is a producer and television personality who has also actively participated in social awareness campaigns.

Aamir Khan remains a leading figure in Bollywood, known for his exceptional acting, intelligent script selection, and dedication to his craft.

3. Shah Rukh Khan

Often referred to as the “King of Romance” or “SRK”, Shah Rukh Khan is one of the most popular Indian actors globally. He’s known for his charming personality, romantic roles, and entrepreneurial ventures in the Indian film industry.

Shah Rukh Khan, also referred to by the initials SRK, is a legendary Indian actor, producer, and television personality who has been a mainstay of Bollywood for over three decades.  He’s widely regarded as one of the biggest movie stars in the world, and is often hailed as the “Baadshah of Bollywood” (King of Bollywood) and “King Khan”.

Khan has acted in over 100 films and earned a multitude of awards, including a record-tying eight Filmfare Awards for Best Actor. He’s also received prestigious honors from the Indian government and France’s government.

Here’s a brief timeline of his career milestones:

• Began acting career in the late 1980s on Indian television.
• Bollywood debut in 1992 with the romantic film “Deewana”.
• Achieved recognition for portraying villainous roles in the thrillers “Baazigar” (1993) and “Darr” (1993).
• Established himself as a romantic hero in the mega-hit “Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge” (1995).
• Continued to deliver top-grossing romantic films throughout the 1990s and 2000s.
• Made a successful comeback in 2023 with the action-packed films “Pathaan” and “Jawan”.

In addition to acting, Khan is also a film producer, entrepreneur, and philanthropist.  He owns the Kolkata Knight Riders cricket team of the Indian Premier League.

Khan is highly respected in India and has a massive global following, especially among the Indian diaspora.  He is a true Bollywood icon.

4. Rajinikanth

Nicknamed “Thalaiva” (Leader), Rajinikanth is a superstar in Tamil cinema and enjoys a cult following across India. He’s known for his larger-than-life action roles and charismatic screen persona.

Here’s the story of Rajinikanth, the superstar of Indian cinema

• The Man Behind the Name: Born Shivaji Rao Gaikwad in 1950, Rajinikanth is the stage name he adopted for his film career [Wikipedia].  He comes from a humble background in Bangalore, India.
• From Bus Conductor to Superstar: Before entering films, Rajinikanth worked as a bus conductor.  His passion for acting led him to the Madras Film Institute, where he honed his skills [IMDb].
• Stepping into the Spotlight:  Rajinikanth’s film debut came in the mid-1970s.  Initially, he played supporting roles, but his talent and charisma shone through [IMDb].
• The Rise of a Superstar: The turning point arrived in the late 1970s with films like “Billa” and “Murattu Kaalai,” establishing him as a powerful action hero  [Britannica].  He excelled at portraying both anti-heroes and righteous characters.
• Style is Substance:  Rajinikanth’s unique acting style, including his signature walk and dialogue delivery, is a major part of his appeal [IMDb].  He’s known for his enigmatic persona and ability to defy cinematic logic in his larger-than-life roles.
• Beyond Tamil Cinema: While primarily known for Tamil films, Rajinikanth has also acted in Hindi, Telugu, Kannada, and other Indian languages, amassing a pan-Indian fan following [Britannica].
• A Legacy of Entertainment:  Over five decades, Rajinikanth has starred in over 160 films, captivating audiences across generations [Wikipedia]. He’s received prestigious awards, including the Padma Bhushan and Padma Vibhushan, for his contributions to Indian cinema.
• More Than Just an Actor:  Rajinikanth is a cultural phenomenon in India. He’s a respected figure known for his philanthropy and enjoys a god-like status among his fans [IMDb].

5. Dilip Kumar

The “Tragedy King” Dilip Kumar is considered one of the greatest actors in Indian cinema history. He’s known for his portrayal of complex roles in Indian and Pakistani films.

Dilip Kumar, also known as the “Tragedy King” and “Abhinay Samrat” (Emperor of Acting), was a legendary Indian actor who dominated Hindi cinema for decades [Wikipedia]. Here’s a look at his remarkable journey:

• The Early Days: Born Muhammad Yusuf Khan in 1922 (now in Pakistan), Dilip Kumar entered the world of Hindi cinema in the 1940s [Wikipedia].  He adopted his screen name upon entering films, as was customary at that time.
• A Pioneering Actor:  Dilip Kumar is credited with pioneering method acting in Indian cinema, following in the footsteps of Motilal [IMDb].  This approach to acting emphasized deep emotional connection to the character.
• Golden Age Stardom:  From the late 1940s through the 1960s, Dilip Kumar reigned supreme. He delivered powerful performances in films like “Mughal-e-Azam,” “Deedar,” and “Devdas,” earning him the “Tragedy King” title for his portrayal of anguished characters [Britannica].
• Awards and Accolades:  Dilip Kumar’s brilliance was recognized with numerous awards.  He holds the record (shared with Shah Rukh Khan) for most Filmfare Best Actor Awards (eight) [IMDb].  He also received the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award and Padma Vibhushan, signifying his immense contribution to Indian cinema [Wikipedia].
• Beyond Tragedy: While known for his tragic roles, Dilip Kumar was a versatile actor who excelled in diverse characters.  He also played romantic heroes and comedic parts throughout his career [IMDb].
• A Lasting Legacy:  Dilip Kumar’s career spanned over five decades and his influence on Indian cinema is undeniable. He is considered one of the greatest actors to ever grace the silver screen, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire generations of actors [Britannica].

Sadly, Dilip Kumar passed away in 2021, but his memory and exceptional filmography live on.

6. Dev Anand

Dev Anand, known for his evergreen youthful looks and flamboyant style, was a leading actor in Hindi cinema from the 1950s to the 1970s.

Dev Anand, also known as “Evergreen Dev” for his youthful charm that defied age, was a multifaceted talent in Indian cinema [IMDb]. Here’s a glimpse into his impressive career:

• The Formative Years: Born Dharam Dev Pishorimal Anand in 1923 (now in Pakistan), Dev Anand’s journey began with a degree in English Literature [Wikipedia].  He later moved to Bombay (now Mumbai) to pursue a career in the film industry.
• From Lahore to Lights, Camera, Action!:  In the 1940s, Dev Anand made his film debut.  He co-founded Navketan Films with his elder brother Chetan Anand in 1949 [Wikipedia].  This production house played a significant role in shaping his career.
• Leading Man and Beyond:  Dev Anand carved a niche for himself as a leading man throughout the 1950s and 1960s.  He was known for his charismatic personality, portraying positive, urban characters who resonated with audiences [BookMyShow].  He was one of the highest-paid actors of his time.
• The Power of Performance:  While commercially successful, Dev Anand didn’t shy away from challenging roles.  He delivered critically acclaimed performances in films like “Guide” and “Jewel Thief” [IMDb].
• More Than Just Acting:  Dev Anand’s creative compass extended beyond acting.  He ventured into directing and producing films, adding new dimensions to his filmography [Wikipedia].
• The Enduring Legacy:  With a career spanning over six decades and more than 100 films, Dev Anand left an indelible mark on Indian cinema [IMDb].  He received prestigious awards like the Padma Bhushan and the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, the highest recognition in Indian cinema [Wikipedia].

Dev Anand’s positive persona, acting talent, and contribution to filmmaking continue to inspire generations of actors and filmmakers in India.

7. Uttam Kumar

Uttam Kumar was a legendary Bengali actor who dominated Bengali cinema for over three decades. He was known for his romantic persona and powerful performances.

Uttam Kumar, also revered as the “Mahanayak” (Great Actor) of Bengali cinema, was a legendary Indian film personality [Wikipedia]. His career flourished for over three decades, leaving an undeniable mark on Bengali cinema. Here’s a closer look at his life and achievements:

Early Life and Stepping into Films (1926-1940s):

• Born Arun Kumar Chatterjee in 1926, Uttam Kumar hailed from a middle-class family in Kolkata [Wikipedia]. His father was a film projectionist, perhaps sparking his early interest in cinema.
• While attending school, Uttam Kumar participated in theatre productions, honing his acting skills [IMDb].
• In the late 1940s, he entered the film industry and adopted the screen name “Uttam Kumar.”

Rise to Stardom in Bengali Cinema (1950s-1960s):

• The 1950s marked a turning point for Uttam Kumar. He delivered several successful films, establishing himself as a leading actor in Bengali cinema [Wikipedia].
• He was known for his versatility, portraying a wide range of characters – from romantic heroes to complex anti-heroes.
• Uttam Kumar frequently collaborated with the iconic actress Suchitra Sen, forming one of the most celebrated on-screen pairs in Bengali cinema history [Britannica]. Their films, known for their captivating chemistry, continue to be cherished by audiences.
• This period also saw Uttam Kumar venturing into directing and filmmaking, showcasing his multifaceted talent [IMDb].

Accolades and Continued Success (1970s-1980):

• Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Uttam Kumar remained a dominant force in Bengali cinema.
• He garnered critical acclaim for his performances, including the prestigious National Film Award for Best Actor for his roles in “Chiriyakhana” (1967) and “Antony Firingee” (1967) [IMDb]. These awards were the first ever given out for Best Actor by the Government of India.
• Uttam Kumar remained active in the industry until his passing in 1980, leaving behind a rich legacy of films and unforgettable performances.

Beyond the Screen:

• Uttam Kumar was a cultural icon in Bengal. His influence extended beyond cinema, shaping fashion trends and societal perceptions [The Telegraph India].
• Even today, he remains a beloved figure in Bengali cinema, with his films being regularly screened and celebrated by fans.

Uttam Kumar’s exceptional talent, captivating screen presence, and dedication to Bengali cinema solidified his position as one of the greatest actors in Indian film history.

8. Mohanlal

Mohanlal is a prolific actor in Malayalam cinema,  known for his versatility and portrayal of complex characters. He has won numerous awards for his acting prowess.

Mohanlal is a well-respected Indian actor, producer, playback singer, and more, who has been a prominent figure in Malayalam cinema for over four decades [Wikipedia]. Here’s a quick summary of his impressive career:

• The Versatile Actor:  Mohanlal is known for his exceptional acting skills and remarkable versatility. He has convincingly portrayed a wide range of characters, from charming heroes to complex villains [BookMyShow]. This has earned him the title of one of the most versatile actors in Indian cinema [Reader’s Digest India].
• Accolades and Recognition:  Mohanlal’s talent has been widely recognized. He is a recipient of numerous awards, including a record-tying eight Filmfare Awards for Best Actor in Malayalam [Wikipedia]. He has also been conferred with honorary titles by the Indian government and France [Wikipedia].
• A Career Spanning Decades:  Mohanlal’s film career began in the late 1970s and continues to flourish today [IMDb]. He has starred in over 100 films across various genres, leaving a lasting impact on Malayalam cinema.

If “Mohanlal” wasn’t the name you were interested in, let me know and I can try finding information on someone else!

9. Kamal Haasan

Kamal Haasan is a multifaceted actor, director, writer, and producer in Tamil cinema. He is known for his experimentation with filmmaking and unconventional roles.

Kamal Haasan, born as Parthasarathy Srinivasan on November 7, 1954, is an Indian actor, filmmaker, screenwriter, playback singer, television presenter, social activist, and politician. His impact on Indian cinema is immeasurable, earning him numerous accolades, including several National Film Awards and the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian award. Let’s explore his legacy:

Versatile Actor

• Kamal Haasan is considered one of the finest actors in Indian cinema.
• His breakthrough as a lead actor came in the 1975 drama “Apoorva Raagangal”, directed by K. Balachander, where he played a rebellious youth in love with an older woman.
• He won his first National Film Award for his portrayal of a guileless school teacher in “Moondram Pirai” (1982), caring for a woman with retrograde amnesia.
• His performances in films like “Sagara Sangamam” (1983), “Swathi Muthyam” (1986), “Nayakan” (1987), and “Pushpaka Vimana” (1987) garnered immense acclaim.

Innovator and Visionary

• Kamal Haasan introduced new film technologies and techniques to the Indian film industry.
• His production company, Raaj Kamal Films International, has produced several of his films.
• His transformative use of makeup and prosthetics revolutionized realism in cinema.

Awards and Honors

• Haasan has received numerous awards, including 17 Filmfare Awards South, Four National Film Awards, and the Kalaimamani Award.
• He was honored with the Padma Shri in 1990, the Padma Bhushan in 2014, and the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres (Chevalier) in 2016.

Social Impact

• Kamal Haasan is not only a cinematic visionary but also a socially conscious individual.
• His philanthropic efforts include receiving the Abraham Kovoor National Award in 2004.
• He has actively supported causes such as children’s cancer relief.

Kamal Haasan’s contributions to the world of entertainment continue to inspire budding actors and filmmakers, making him an enduring legend in Indian cinema

10. Chiranjeevi

Chiranjeevi is a megastar in Telugu cinema, known for his acting, dancing skills, and screen presence. He is also a politician and served as a member of the Indian Parliament.

Chiranjeevi, born Konidela Siva Sankara Vara Prasad, is a legendary actor in Telugu cinema, fondly referred to as the “Megastar.” Here’s a glimpse into his life and achievements:

Early Life and Career Beginnings (1955-1978):

• Born on August 22, 1955, in Mogalthur, Andhra Pradesh.
• His father was a police constable whose frequent transfers led to Chiranjeevi attending schools in various locations.
• He developed a passion for acting early on and participated in stage plays.
• Entered the film industry in 1978 with the movie “Punadhirallu,” though “Pranam Khareedu” released first.

Rise to Stardom (1980s-1990s):

• The 1980s saw Chiranjeevi become a superstar with a string of successful films.
• He excelled in action roles, captivating audiences with his dance skills and charisma.
• Films like “Swayamkrushi” (1987) earned him critical acclaim and awards, including the Nandi Award and the Indian Express Best Actor Award.
• He ventured into production with “Rudraveena” (1988), which won the National Film Award for Best Feature Film on National Integration.
• “Gharana Mogudu” (1992) became the first Telugu film to gross over ₹10 crore at the box office.
• He received praise for his versatility, being compared to actors like Kamal Haasan and Rajinikanth.

Later Career and Accolades (2000s-Present):

• The mid-1990s saw some box office setbacks, but Chiranjeevi bounced back with films like “Mutha Mestri” (1993).
• He holds the record for achieving success in single, double, and triple roles in movies.
• Throughout his career, Chiranjeevi has won numerous awards, including nine Filmfare Awards South and three Nandi Awards.
• In 2006, he was honored with the prestigious Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian award.
• He took a break from acting for a while to pursue a career in politics.
• Chiranjeevi returned to the silver screen in 2017 with the movie “Khaidi No. 150,” which was a huge success.

Legacy:

• Chiranjeevi is not just an actor but a cultural icon who has inspired generations.
• He is credited with playing a significant role in shaping Telugu cinema and establishing its global reach.
• He is the first South Indian actor to be invited to the Academy Awards ceremony (1987).

These are just a few of the many talented actors who have left their mark on Indian cinema.  The Indian film industry continues to produce new stars and evolve,  it will be interesting to see who shapes Bollywood in the years to come.