Hey folks! Are you eager to know the best actors in India? Your search ends here. We have compiled a list of the best Indian actors you must know. As you all know, Indian actors have always charmed audiences with their outstanding performances, from the lively times of black-and-white cinema to the dazzling colors of modern films.
These legendary actors keep on inspiring future generations of actors with their skills and devotion. They remind us of the captivating moments when they grace the silver screen with their presence. As Bollywood evolves, the legacy of these unmatched actors serves as an everlasting source of inspiration.
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With their unique styles and captivating charisma, each of these actors has influenced Indian cinemas, leaving behind a matchless legacy that continues to fascinate global audiences. Some of the finest actors were Raj Kapoor, Dilip Kumar, and Devanand who became successful during the Golden Era of Cinema. There have been several iconic Indian actors including Rajesh Khanna, Dharmendra, and Amitabh Bachchan from the New Indian or Parallel Cinema.
Moreover, the 1980s and 1990s also witnessed the emergence of numerous talented artists like Naseeruddin Shah, Anil Kapoor, SRK, Govinda, Salman Khan, and many others. Without further ado, let’s explore the list of 50 Best Actors in India. We are presenting the most influential artists. Here we go.
1- Dilip Kumar
Dilip Kumar was born Mohammed Yusuf Khan on 11 December 1922. He was one of the most influential actors in India. He and Raj Kumar were childhood friends. The actor made his acting debut with the film Jwar Bhata(1944). His breakthrough film was Jugnu and his most popular role was Salim in the movie Mughal-e-Azam.
Some of his most notable films include Shabnam, Andaz, Devdas, Madhumati, Naya Daur, and Kranti. He received several prestigious awards including Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and DadaSaheb Phalke Award. Kumar earned titles such as The First Khan of Bollywood, Abhinay Samrat, and Tragedy King.
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2- Raj Kapoor
Next up on the list, is one of the iconic actors in India, Raj Kapoor. He was born Shristi Nath Kapoor to actor Prithviraj Kapoor and Ramsarni Devi Kapoor. He appeared in the film Inquilab at the age of ten. Raj Kapoor became the youngest film director at 24 and established his studio R.K. Films.
Raj Kapoor directed several hit movies. Moreover, he portrayed iconic roles in movies such as Barsaat, Awaara, Jis Desh Mein Ganga Behti Hai, Sangam, Mera Naam Joker, Anhonee, and Dharam Karam. He is referred to as “The Greatest Showman of Indian Cinema” and the “Charlie Chaplin of Indian Cinema”.
3- Amitabh Bachchan
Amitabh Bachchan aka The Shahenshah of Bollywood is a legendary Indian actor. He was born to renowned poet Harivanshrai Bachchan and activist Teji Bachchan. His debut film was “Saat Hindustani”. He became popular as the “angry young man” after featuring in the films Zanjeer, Sholay, and Deewar.
Additionally, his most successful movies include Namak Haraam, Amar Akbar Anthony, Naseeb, Don, Namak Halaal, Shahenshah, Muqaddar ka Sikander, Mard, and Piku. He is also famous for hosting the television show Kaun Banega Crorepati. He received India’s most prestigious Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, Padma Vibhushan, and Dadasaheb Phalke Awards.
4- Dev Anand
Dev Anand was a renowned Indian actor. He was also a successful director, producer, and writer. He was the co-founder of production house Navketan Films along with his brother Chetan Anand. Anand debuted with the film “Hum Ek Hain”. He worked with actress Suraiya in seven successful films.
Furthermore, Anand portrayed commendable roles as Rakesh in the comedy film Tere Ghar Ke Samne, Shekhar in the crime thriller C.I.D., Vinay/Amar in the spy thriller Jewel Thief, and Sohan in crime action Johny Mera Naam. He appeared in more than 112 films during his career spanning over six decades.
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5- Amrish Puri
Amrish Puri was one of the most influential actors in India. He was famous for his iconic roles in Indian cinema. His elder brothers Chaman and Madan Puri were also popular actors. He appeared in more than 450 movies during his career. He received awards for positive roles in movies such as Gardish, Phool Aur Kaante, Virasat, and Mujhe Kuchh Kehna Hai.
However, the actor is known for his iconic villainous roles. He was one of the highest-paid Indian villain actors. He portrayed the classic role of Mogambo in Mr. India. His other notable films include Nagina, Hero, Shahenshah, Ram Lakhan, Gadar, Karan Arjun, Vidhata, and Tahalka.
6- Rishi Kapoor
Rishi Kapoor was a famous actor born into the Kapoor Family. He was one of the most influential actors in India. He won the National Film Award in the Best Child Artist category for his debut film Mera Naam Joker. He played the lead role in the film Bobby which became a huge hit and he also received Filmfare Award for Best Actor.
Rishi continued to do successful films like Kabhi Kabhie, Chandni, Amar Akbar Anthony, Agneepath, Bol Radha Bol, Karz, Kapoor & Sons, and 102 Not Out. He was the son of Raj Kapoor and the grandson of Prithvi Raj Kapoor. His brothers are Randhir Kapoor and Rajeev Kapoor. He left the world on 30 April 2020 at the age of 67.
7- Dharmendra
Dharmendra is one of India’s legendary actors. He was born to a Jat Sikh family. Everyone is a fan of his most popular dialogue “Kutte, Kamine, Mai Tera Khoon Pee Jaunga“. He is best known for movies including Sholay, Yaadon Ki Baraat, Satyakaam, Phool Aur Patthar, Alibaba aur 40 Chor, Dillagi, and Chupke Chupke.
During his six decades-long career, he has appeared in over 300 movies. He received the Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award and Padma Bhushan. Dharmendra is one of the most handsome actors in the industry. In fact, in the mid-1970s, he was voted one of the most handsome men in the world.
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8- Kamal Haasan
Kamal Haasan is a famous actor who primarily acted in Tamil films. He also appeared in Hindi, Bengali, Malayalam, Telugu, and Kannada movies. He received the President’s Gold Medal for his role in Kalathur Kannamma as a child artist. Haasan became a successful actor and director. His production company Raaj Kamal Films International produced several films.
Apart from it, He also wrote various songs for his movies. He has also been a host of the tv show Bigg Boss Tamil. Kamal Haasan launched his fashion line brand KH House of Khaddar. He won multiple National Film Awards, Nandi Awards, Filmfare Awards, Padma Shri, etc.
9- Rajesh Khanna
Rajesh Khanna was one of the finest actors in India. He earned the title of the First Superstar of Bollywood as his lead roles in record 15 films(during 1969-1971) proved to be successful. His debut film Aakhiri Khat became the nation’s first entry in Academy Awards. Khanna, R.D. Burman, and Kishore Kumar were bosom friends and worked together in more than thirty movies.
The actor was popular for his films such as Anand, Ittefaq, Bawarchi, Amar Prem, Namak Haraam, Aradhana, and Avatar. He was also a playback singer and worked with Kishore Kumar, Lata Mangeshkar, and Rafi on several songs like Ik Ajnabi Haseena Se Yun Mulaqat and Baagon Mein Bahaar Hai.
10- Rajnikanth
Rajnikanth aka Thalaiva is an Indian actor famous for working in Tamil films. He was one of the most influential actors in India. He was born Shivaji Rao Gaikwad in Bangalore. During his career spanning five decades, he received numerous accolades like the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, Padma Bhushan, Padma Vibhushan, and Filmfare Award.
Rajnikanth credited Amitabh Bachchan as his inspiration and acted in 11 Tamil remakes of Amitabh’s movies. He is a renowned star of South Indian Cinema. Moreover, his debut film in Bollywood Andha Kanoon became the highest-grossing film of the time. Kabali, Bhagwan Dada, Dharmathin Thalaivan are his most successful films.
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11- Shammi Kapoor
Shammi Kapoor was a great actor in Indian cinema. He was born Shamsher Raj Kapoor to Prithviraj Kapoor. His brothers Shashi Kapoor and Raj Kapoor were also renowned actors. He made his acting debut with the film Jeewan Jyoti. However, his breakthrough came with the 1957 movie Tumsa Nahi Dekha.
Additionally, Shammi was the only dancing hero in Hindi films from the late 1950s till the early 1970s. Fans consider him the “Elvis Presley of India” due to his rock-n-roll fashion and youthful charm. Some of his most notable films include Brahmachari, Junglee, An Evening in Paris, and Bluff Master.
12- Shahrukh Khan
Shahrukh Khan is a famous actor also known as King Khan, Baadshah, or simply SRK. He is one of the most popular actors in India. He started his acting journey with the tv series Fauji. Shahrukh made his big screen debut with the film Deewana.
SRK is popular for his iconic romantic roles in films such as Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge, Mohabbatein, Veer Zara, Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham, and Chennai Express. In 2023, Time magazine ranked Shahrukh among the 100 Most Influential People in the World. He won numerous awards including 14 Filmfare Awards, a Padma Shri, and five honorary doctorates.
13- Anil Kapoor
Anil Kapoor is an Indian actor born to Surinder and Suchitra Kapoor in 1959. His father was a film producer. His brothers Boney Kapoor is a film producer and Sanjay Kapoor is an actor. Anil hogged the limelight with the film Mashaal. He continues to appear in successful films Mr. India, Ram Lakhan, Lamhe, and Nayak. His iconic dialogue “Ek Dum Jhakkas” is still popular.
Anil Kapoor is one of the fittest actors, he looks fit and young at the age of 66. He portrayed a commendable role of young Majnu in the movie Welcome. He received two National Film Awards, seven Filmfare Awards, and various honors.
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14- Akshay Kumar
Akshay Kumar is one of the highest-paid actors in India. He was born Rajiv Bhatia to Hari Om and Aruna Bhatia. He learned martial arts from Bangkok and gained a black belt in Taekwondo. Kumar debuted with the film Saugandh. His breakthrough came with the suspense thriller film Khiladi.
In fact, he became famous for his action films like Main Khiladi Tu Anari, Mohra, and Rowdy Rathore. Akshay Kumar is also popular for comedy roles in the blockbusters like Hera Pheri, Heyy Baby, Welcome, Singh is Kinng and Housefull. His recent hit films include Kesari, Mission Mangal, Toilet, and Good Newwz.
15- Om Puri
Om Puri was a popular actor who worked hard to support his family. In 1976, Om Puri completed his studies at the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) and initially started his acting journey in theater. He established himself as an impactful actor and acted in Hindi, Bengali, Kannada, Punjabi, and English films.
The actor has won two National Film Awards, Filmfare Awards, and Padma Shri. Some of his most popular films include Ardh Satya, Aakrosh, Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro, Gadar, Ghayal, Hera Pheri, Lakshya, Chachi 420, and Malamal Weekly.
16- Salman Khan
Salman Khan is a famous Indian actor born to screenwriter Salim Khan and Sushila Charak. His debut film was Biwi Ho To Aisi in which he played a supporting role. He played a lead role in the highest-grossing movie of that time, Maine Pyar Kiya.
In 2015 and 2018. Forbes included him in its list of the highest-paid celebrities in the world. Karan Arjun, Hum Aapke Hain Kaun, Wanted Dabangg, and Bajrangi Bhaijaan are his most successful films. He is also popular for his charity works. He was one of the most influential actors in India.
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17- Sunil Dutt
Sunil Dutt was a prolific Indian actor born Balraj Dutt on 6 June 1929. He made his debut with the 1955 film Railway Platform. However, the movie Mother India propelled him to success. He was one of the influential actors during the 1950s and 1960s. He married actress Nargis and they had three children Sanjay(actor), Priya, and Namrata Dutt.
Throughout his career, Sunil Dutt appeared in a diverse range of films, spanning social dramas, romantic movies, and action thrillers. His notable films are Sadhna, Padosan, Mera Saaya, Nagin, Heera, Muqabla, Raaj Tilak, and Jaani Dushman.
18- Anupam Kher
Anupam Kher is a famous actor, director, and producer as well. He won eight Filmfare Awards, two National Film Awards, Padma Shri, and Padma Bhushan for his significant contribution to Indian cinema. He is famous for portraying a variety of characters. Be it, positive, villainous, or comedy roles.
Kher has also appeared in international movies like “Bend It Like Beckham”, “Lust, Caution”, and “Silver Linings Playbook”. Moreover, he is a renowned motivational speaker and has authored several books. Tezaab, Nagina, Chandni, Hum Aapke Hain Kaun, DDLJ, Special 26, and M.S. Dhoni, are considered his most notable films.
19- Aamir Khan
Next up, on the list is non other than Aamir Khan. He was one of the most influential actors in India. Apart from being an actor, he is also a director and producer. He made his first film appearance in Yaadon Ki Baraat as a child artist. He is one of the highest-paid Khan actors along with Salman, and Shahrukh.
During his career spanning over thirty years, he worked in a wide range of genres including comedy, thriller, romance, drama, and action. His notable films are Raakh, Lagaan, Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikander, Dil Chahta Hai, Raja Hindustani, Taare Zameen Par, 3 Idiots, Dhoom 3, Dangal, and PK.
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20- Ajay Devgan
Ajay Devgan is a famous actor born to stunt choreographer/action-film director Veeru Devgan and film producer Veena. He established himself as a successful actor, director, and producer. He was the first Bollywood personality to own a private jet.
During his career, he has won various accolades including four National Awards, four Filmfare Awards, Padma Shri, Stardust, and Screen Awards. He has appeared in more than a hundred films. Devgan is famous for his films Dilwale, The Legend of Bhagat Singh, Ishq, Omkara, Golmaal, Singham, Tanhaji, and Drishaym.
21- Govinda
Govinda is a prominent actor who is best known for dance moves, comedy, and action roles. He was born to actor Aroon(Arun Kumar Ahuja) and actress/singer Nirmala Devi. He appeared in more than 160 films over the years. Govinda made his debut with the film Ilzam(1986) which became a successful hit.
The actor is famous for his roles in the hit comedy films Coolie No. 1, Raja Babu, Bade Miyan Chhote Miyan, Haseena Maan Jayegi, Partner, and Bhagam Bhag. In 1999, the BBC News Online poll voted him the tenth-greatest star of the stage or screen in the last thousand years.
22- Paresh Rawal
Paresh Rawal is an exceptional actor known for his villainous and comedic roles. He has worked in Hindi and Telugu films. He portrayed the role of the famous character Baburao Ganpatrao Apte aka “Babu Bhaiya” from the iconic cult classic film Hera Pheri. Paresh rose to prominence with the film Naam.
The actor’s best films as a villain include Roop ki Rani Choron Ka Raja, Baazi, Ram Lakhan, Andaz Apna Apna. Here are some of his best comedy films, Hungama, Garam Masala, Malamal Weekly, Golmaal, Bhool Bhulaiya, Welcome, and De Dana Dan.
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23- Guru Dutt
Guru Dutt was an Indian actor, born Vasanth Kumar Shivashankar Padukone on 9 July 1925. He was one of the most influential filmmakers in the history of Indian cinema. Apart from it, he was also a producer, writer, and choreographer. He made his acting debut with the 1945 film Lakhrani.
His other notable films include Baaz, Pyaasa, Chaudhvin Ka Chand, Sahib Bibi Aur Ghulam, Bahurani, Suhagan, and Sanjh Aur Savera. In 2012, CNN included him on its list of “Top 25 Asian Actors”. He won a National Film Award. He left the world on 10 October 1964 at the age of 39.
24- Hrithik Roshan
Hrithik Roshan is one of the highest-paid actors in India. His father is famous filmmaker and actor Rakesh Roshan. In 1980, Hrithik made his first appearance as a child actor in the Hindi drama film “Aasha,” playing a minor role. He also had minor roles in various other movies.
His official film debut was in the romantic drama “Kaho Naa… Pyaar Hai,” where he played a dual role. It became the highest-grossing film of the year. Some of his most notable films are Kabhi Khushi Kabhi Gham, Lakshya, Koi Mil Gaya, Jodha Akbar, Dhoom 2, Agneepath, and Super 30.
25- Amjad Khan
Amjad Khan was one of the renowned Indian actors. He was the son of actor Jayant(Zakaria Khan). He is best known for portraying the iconic role of Gabbar in the blockbuster film Sholay. Khan began his career as a child artist. His debut film was Ab Dilli Dur Nahin. He played numerous villainous roles.
Moreover, Amzad Khan appeared in more than 130 films during his twenty-year-spanning career. He played negative roles in hit films like Des Pardes, Nastik, Naseeb, Chambal Ki Kasam, and Satte Pe Satta. He also played positive roles in the films Yaarana, Rocky, and Lawaaris.
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26- Sanjay Dutt
Sanjay Dutt is an Indian actor born to actors Sunil Dutt and Nargis. He made his first film appearance in the film Rocky(1981). He has appeared in more than a hundred movies including thriller, comedy, action, and romance.
Additionally, some of his most successful movies include Saajan, Vaastav: The Reality, Khalnayak, Munna Bhai MBBS, Dhamaal, PK, and K.G.F: Chapter 2. In 2018, a biographical film Sanju was released starring Ranbir Kapoor as Sanjay Dutt. It became one of the highest-grossing films in India.
27- Uttam Kumar
Uttam Kumar was born Arun Kumar Chattopadhyay. He was also known as Mahanayak for his contribution to Bengali cinema. Apart from being an actor, he was also a director, screenwriter, and singer. During his three-decades spanning career, he worked in over 200 movies.
Kumar received numerous prestigious awards in recognition of his outstanding work, including the National Film Award for Best Actor for his performances in the movies Chiriyakhana and Antony Firingee. He was famous for his roles in the films Saptapadi, Agin Pariksha, Amanush, and Nayak.
28- Sanjeev Kumar
Sanjeev Kumar was a great actor who worked in a variety of genres. He portrayed Thakur in the film Sholay which became his most popular role. He won two National Film Awards, three Filmfare Awards, and a Bengal Film Journalist’s Association Award.
Sanjeev Kumar appeared in films such as Arjun Pandit, Khilona, Devata, Qatl, Pati Patni Aur Woh, Hero, Angoor, and Shikhar. The actor died at the age of 47 due to a heart attack. About ten movies were released after Sanjeev’s death with altered storylines due to incomplete shooting.
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29- Naseeruddin Shah
Naseeruddin Shah is famous for his significant contribution to parallel cinema. His acting career spanned several decades, and he remains a prominent and respected figure in the Indian film industry. He won three National Film Awards, Filmfare Awards, Padma Shri, and Padma Bhushan.
Shah has appeared in films including Aakrosh, Ardh Satya, Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro, Masoom, Karma, and Ghulam. He has also worked on several international projects like The Great New Wonderful, Monsoon Wedding, and The Blueberry Hunt.
30- Balraj Sahni
Balraj Sahni was a prolific Indian actor born in Rawalpindi, Punjab. He began his acting career with plays of IPTA(Indian People’s Theatre Association). His debut film was Insaaf however, it was Do Bigha Zamin which propelled him to success. The film won an international prize at The Cannes Film Festival.
Moreover, the actor is famous for his song Ae Meri Zohra Jabeen from the film Waqt. His best films include Dharti Ke Lal, Kabuliwala, Neelkamal, Do Raaste, Lajwanti, Mai Baap, and Garam Hawa.
31- Jeetendra
Jeetendra is one of the greatest actors in India. He was born Ravi Kapoor in a Punjabi family. His dance moves and romantic portrayals made him a beloved actor in Bollywood. As the lead hero, he has graced around 200 Hindi films with his presence. Over his impressive six-decade-long film career, he has achieved an impressive record of over 120 box office hits.
In fact, Kapoor has worked with several popular actresses like Hema Malini Jaya Prada, Sridevi, Mumtaz, Rekha, Sangeeta Bijlani, Saira Banu, Asha Parekh, and many others. He is also the chairman of Balaji Motion Pictures and Balaji Telefilms.
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32- Saif Ali Khan
Saif Ali Khan is a famous actor born to Indian cricketer Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi and actress Sharmila Tagore. He rose to prominence with the film Yeh Dillagi. After some failures, he has appeared in hit films like Kacche Dhaage and Hum Saath Saath Hain.
However, Saif became highly popular for his roles in Dil Chahta Hai, Parineeta, Race, Love Aaj Kal, and Cocktail. He portrayed the role of antagonist in the hit movie Tanhaji. Khan has been featured on the list of Forbes India’s “Celebrity 100” from 2012 to 2019.
33- Ranbir Kapoor
Ranbir Kapoor is one of the highest-paid actors in India. He was born to actors Rishi Kapoor and Neetu Singh. He is the grandson of Raj Kapoor and the great-grandson of Prithviraj Kapoor. Ranbir made his debut with the film Saawariya.
The actor is famous for portrayals in films like Bachna Ae Haseeno, Wake up Sid, Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani, Rockstar, Barfi, Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani, and Sanju. His recent top-grossing film Brahmastra was released in 2022.
34- Mehmood
Mehmood Ali was a famous Indian actor, director, and producer. He was born to actor Mumtaz Ali and Latifunnisa. He began his acting career with minor roles in the Do Bogha Zameen, and Pyaasa. Mehmood is also known as India’s national comedian.
During a career spanning more than four decades, he has appeared in more than three hundred films. His most popular films include Padosan, Do Phool, Bombay to Goa, Kunwara Baap, Bhoot Bangla, and Sabse Bada Rupaiya.
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35- Raajkumar
Raajkumar was an Indian actor born as Khulbhushan Pandit. He made his acting debut in the film Rangili and went on to appear in movies like Aabshar, Ghamand, and Lakhon Mein Ek. He hogged the limelight with the Oscar-nominated film Mother India.
Furthermore, he worked with several actors including Shammi Kapoor, Dilip Kumar, Balraj Sahni, Sunil Dutt, and Prithviraj Kapoor. He co-starred with actresses like Mala Sinha, Hema Malini, Meena Kumari, Nadira, and Mandakini. Kumar died at the age of 69 due to throat cancer.
36- Shashi Kapoor
Shashi Kapoor was one of the finest actors in India. He was born Balbir Raj Kapoor into the famous Kapoor family. Starting as a child artist, he made his debut as an adult actor in the film “Dharmputra” (1961). His career flourished as he acted in numerous successful films, eventually becoming a prominent star of Hindi cinema during the 1970s and 1980s.
Kapoor received several awards for his contribution to Indian Cinema. He won four National Film Awards, two Filmfare Awards, Padma Bhushan, Dadasaheb Phalke Award, and many others. His best films include Deewaar, Namak Halaal, Junoon, Jab Jab Phool Khile, and Kranti.
37- Utpal Dutt
Utpal Dutt was a legendary Indian actor, director, and playwright, renowned for his immense contributions to Bengali theater and cinema. He played a pivotal role in shaping the Modern Indian theatre. Dutt appeared in over 100 Bengali and Hindi films during a 40-year spanning career.
Some of his most notable films include Agantuk, Meghe Dhaka Tara, Bhuvan Shome, Kallol, Gol Maal, and Rang Birangi. In 1990, the Sangeet Natak Akademi, India’s National Academy of Music, Dance, and Theatre, honored him with its highest award i.e. Sangeet Natak Akademi Fellowship.
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38- Shahid Kapoor
Shahid Kapoor is a charming actor born to actors Pankaj Kapur and Neelima Azeem. He appeared as a background dancer in some 90s movies. He made his debut appearance on the big screen with Ishq Vishk which brought him a Filmfare Award for Best Male Debut.
Kapoor is famous for his roles in the films Kaminey, Jab We Met, Udta Punjab, Haider, Padmaavat, and Kabir Singh. Shahid established himself as one of the most renowned and highest-paid actors. He portrayed a commendable role of Sunny in the web series “Farzi” streaming on Amazon Prime Video.
39- Manmoothy
Manmoothy is an Indian actor born Muhammad Kutty Panaparambil Ismail in Chandiroor. He is famous for his contribution to Malayalam cinema. He has also appeared in Telugu, Kannada, Tamil, Hindi, and English productions. Manmoothy received three National Film Awards, multiple Kerala State Film Awards, and Padma Shri.
Throughout his four decades-spanning career, he has worked in over 400 movies. His best films include Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar, Kaazcha, Paleri Manikyam, Varsham, Unda, and Bheeshma Parvam.
40- Sivaji Ganesan
During the latter half of the 20th century, Sivaji Ganesan was prominently active in Tamil cinema. He is widely recognized as one of the greatest Indian actors of all time and is often imitated by other actors for his remarkable talent.
In fact, Ganeshan’s versatility and ability to portray a wide array of roles on screen earned him the Tamil nickname “Nadigar Thilagam,” which means “the pride of actors.” Movies such as Veera Pandiya Katta Bomman, Thiruvilayadal, Thevar Magan, and Karnan are considered some of his most notable works.
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41- Prithviraj Kapoor
Prithviraj Kapoor received the prestigious Padma Bhushan and Dadasaheb Phalke Awards for his contribution to cinema. He was an influential Indian actor who is recognized as one of the founding figures of Hindi cinema. Additionally, he played a significant role in the Indian People’s Theatre Association (IPTA) as one of its founding members and founded the “Prithvi Theatres” in 1944.
Kapoor indeed set remarkably high standards for acting and professionalism, becoming an inspiration for future-generation actors. His sons, Shashi Kapoor, Raj Kapoor, and Shashi Kapoor, along with his grandchildren, including Rishi Kapoor, and Randhir Kapoor, all made noteworthy contributions to Indian cinema, carrying forward the celebrated Kapoor legacy in the film industry.
42- Mohanlal
Mohanlal is one of the most celebrated actors in India who predominantly worked in Malayalam films. He has appeared in more than 400 movies during his four decades-spanning career. Mohanlal received India’s third and fourth-highest civilian awards.
Moreover, he became the first actor in India to receive the honorary rank of lieutenant colonel in the Territorial Army. He also won five National Film Awards and numerous other awards. He is popular for roles in films like Bharatham, Drishyam, Vanaprastham, and Company(Hindi).
43- Pran
Pran is an Indian actor who is best known for iconic villainous roles. He was born Pran Krishan Sikand Ahluwalia He is considered to be one of the greatest villains ever in the history of Indian cinema and also one of the highest-paid actors of that time. Pran portrayed negative roles in numerous films including Madhumati, Zanjeer, Jis Desh Mein Ganga Behti Hai, Half Ticket, and Don.
Apart from villainous roles, Pran also played positive supportive roles in movies like Parichay, Upkar, Bobby, and Naseeb. He has worked with several famous artists throughout his career. He died at the age of 93 on 12 July 2013.
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44- Ranveer Singh
Ranveer Singh is one of the most versatile actors of his generation, he is acknowledged for his dedication to his roles and his exceptional skill in effortlessly portraying a wide range of characters. The energetic Indian actor is known for his dynamic performances in Bollywood films like Bajirao Mastani, Gully Boy, Padmaavat, 83, and Simmba.
Well, he is one of the highest-paid actors in India. Forbes India included him in its list of Celebrity 100 since 2012. He made his big screen debut with Band Baja Baraat in 2010. Ranveer Singh has won five Filmfare awards, four IIFA Awards, six Star Screen Awards, and others.
45- Ashok Kumar
Ashok Kumar was a great Indian actor born into the Ganguly family. His brothers Anoop Kumar and Kishore Kumar were also famous actors. He was a pioneering actor who brought natural acting to Hindi cinema. In the black-and-white era of the 1940s and 1950s, he earned the title of the first superstar of Hindi cinema.
Kumar became the first lead actor to portray an anti-hero role. He won Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 1988 and Padma Bhushan in 1999. The actor stopped celebrating his birthday after his brother Kishore’s death on the same day. He was popular for his films Kismet, Sajan, Mahal, and Parineeta.
46- Shatrughan Sinha
Shatrughan Sinha is a popular actor born in Patna, Bihar. He made his acting debut with the film Sajan. He appeared in negative roles in films like Pyar Hi Pyar, Raampur Ka Lakshman, Banphoo, Heera, Bhai Ho Toh Aisa, and Blackmail.
However, he also got successful in portraying lead and supporting roles in movies like Kalicharan, Aa Gale Lag Jaa, Khilona, Gambler, Raaste Ka Paththar, Jheel Ke Us Paar, Yaar Meri Zindagi, and Kala Paththar. He is also a politician, a Member of Parliament, Lok Sabha, and Asansol constituency.
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47- Mithun Chakraborty
Mithun Chakraborty is a famous actor whose career spanned several decades, during which he gave numerous iconic performances, leaving a lasting impact on Bollywood. He has appeared in over 350 films including Hindi, Bengali, Tamil, and other pictures. His debut film was Mrigayaa which brought him a National Film Award.
Moreover, his film Disco Dancer became the first Indian movie to gross Rs. 100 Crore. He has won three National Film Awards and three Filmfare Awards. He is widely recognized for his iconic “Disco Dancer” persona. His legacy in Indian cinema is distinguished by his unique style and his cult figure status during the 1980s and 1990s.
48- Jackie Shroff
Jackie Shroff is often referred to as the “Bhidu” of Bollywood by his fans. He has appeared in over 220 films in thirteen languages during his four decades career. He made his debut appearance in the film Hero which propelled him to success.
Some of his most notable films include Karma, Ram Lakhan, Teri Meherbaniyan, Border, Rangeela, Bandhan, Dhoom 3, Bharat, and Saaho. Apart from his successful acting career, Jackie Shroff is involved in various social and humanitarian initiatives. He actively supports environmental causes and animal welfare.
49- Chiranjeevi
Chiranjeevi is a prominent Indian actor, producer, politician, and dancer, renowned for his significant contributions to the Telugu film industry, commonly known as “Tollywood.” As one of the most influential and celebrated actors in South Indian cinema, he has left a notable mark on the industry.
In fact, he has starred in over 150 movies in Telugu, Hindi, Kannada, and Tamil. CNN-IBN named him as one of “the men who changed the face of the Indian Cinema” in 2013. Chiranjeevi has won numerous accolades for his significant contribution to Indian cinema.
50- Nana Patekar
Nana Patekar is one of the most influential actors in India famous for his works in Hindi and Marathi cinema. Some of his most notable films include Parinda, Angaar, Krantiveer, Aapaharan, Taxi No. 9211, Rajneeti, and Welcome.
Patekar has won three National Film Awards, four Filmfare Awards, and two Filmfare Awards Marathi for his outstanding acting performances. In 2013, he received the Padma Shri award for his contributions to cinema and the arts.
