Stars who made it from the runway to Bollywood and proved nothing is impossible.
Written by Jyotsana Rao, BE jyotsana raoBEExperience: 4 years
Jyotsana Rao is an engineering graduate from NIT, Nagpur, who discovered her love for writing during her undergraduate days. She is passionate about writing about everything related to beauty - makeup, fashion, hairstyles, skin care, or hair care and has 4 years of experience on writing in these genres.
Edited by Madhumati Chowdhury, MA (English Literature) madhumati chowdhuryMA (English Literature)Experience: 7 years
Madhumati is an associate editor with seven years of professional experience. She has previously worked as an editor, proofreader, and a writer with various organizations, helping her navigate through the various facets of content creation and refinement with ease.
Fact-checked by Bhumika Daga, MA (English) bhumika dagaMA (English)Experience: 2.5 years
Bhumika is a content writer with 2.5 years of expertise in crafting articles across diverse genres. She graduated from the University of Delhi and completed her post-graduation from Indira Gandhi National Open University, Delhi.
Bollywood has welcomed many new talents as actresses who were initially models. And these models who turned Bollywood actresses have made sure they ace modeling and become phenomenal actresses, too. In this article, we introduce you to some of the top names that took the plunge and ended up making it big in the film industry.
These actresses were often dismissed due to the public perception that they could not act as well as they could walk on a ramp. They initially faced constant skepticism about their acting abilities but with hard training and deep commitment to the craft, they overcame the harsh criticism and made their place in the industry. Their successful journeys inspire many aspiring actresses and prove that hard work and perseverance can surely help people achieve their dreams. With fit bodies and superb acting talent, these actresses — from the modeling world — have set the bar quite high for many.
Like they rocked the ramp walk, they showcased how real acting is done. So, if you are curious to know about these actresses, you have landed in the right place. Below, we have a list of these talented artists that you must check right away. Scroll down to learn more about them!
In This Article
14 Beautiful Models Who Turned Into Successful Bollywood Actresses
The transition from aspiring model to renowned Bollywood actress requires hard work, dedication, and perseverance. These wonderful ladies have reached peak stardom and recognition despite numerous challenges and influenced the latest social media and fashion trends by taking up lucrative opportunities and endorsements. They have played a great role in redefining beauty standards in Bollywood and utilized their platform to convey inspiring messages. They have played characters that challenge and disrupt stereotypes, becoming role models for young women across the country. Their glitz and glamor mesmerize their followers, turning them from some of the most beautiful women in India to successful brand ambassadors for major international companies. Here is an inspiring list of model-turned-actresses of our beloved B-Town.
1. Aishwariya Rai
I don’t even need to introduce our Ex-Miss World, Aishwarya Rai. Those beautiful eyes, that stunning beauty does a lot more than just making her look good. This lady is one of the most beautiful models in the world and one of the finest actresses that Bollywood has, even today! She also happens to be one of the few Bollywood actresses to have acted in Hollywood movies.
2. Bipasha Basu
Our very own Bong bombshell Bipasha Basu can get any man go weak on his knees. Her super sensuous looks and body is perfectly complimented by her natural acting skills. Trust her to woo you each time whether she walks the ramp or acts in the movie.
3. Deepika Padukone
Deepika Padukone is one of the rare model-turned-actresses who can dazzle any outfit, literally.
She obviously is gorgeously stunning. But what makes her even more attractive is her natural acting skill. She is rightly the current favourite of the nation!
Trivia
Deepika began her career as a model for Kingfisher and was included in the company’s yearly calendar. Additionally, she won the 2005 Kingfisher Model of the Year award.
4. Dia Mirza
Dia Mirza makes me wonder if she is made of wax! That perfect body, flawless skin and graceful personality makes her charming. She is also known for her capability of making any character seem real on screen.
5. Katrina Kaif
Katrina Kaif’s babydoll looks make her look cute and pretty at the same time. The beauty doesn’t believe in adding too much drama to either her look or her acting. She has given some of the smashing hits for the industry and fans to love her more.
6. Anushka Sharma
Anushka Sharma
is the perfect teen idol. She represents the youth of the country. Her ‘bindaas’ roles onscreen are nothing but an extension of her own self off screen. Trust her to rock any attire. She has redefined the new cool and sexy. She is even loved for her effortless acting skills and easy-to-carry style.
7. Lara Dutta
Lara Dutta, our very own sultry beauty, is one of those rare model-turned actresses to have earned critical acclaim of the audiences.
She sure knows how to bring elegance to her looks. But what she does even better is bring in poised to every character she plays onscreen.
Trivia
After winning Miss Universe in 2000, Lara Dutta was named a UNFPA Goodwill Ambassador in 2001.
8. Neha Dhupia
Neha Dhupia is known for her bold avatar, both on and off stage. She dazzles the audience with her acting skills in both mainstream and off stream cinema. The lady also knows how to rock the ramp with flair and elan. This beautiful model does more than justice to her onscreen characters and has also won many hearts. Both within and outside the industry.
9. Preity Zinta
Our lovely dimpled beauty has always been bubbly and frank both on-screen and off-screen. Preity Zinta’s cute smile only adds more charm to her personality and looks. She is a seasoned Bollywood actress who has given us quite a few hits worth remembering. I would not mind watching her movies over and over again. Would you?!
10. Priyanka Chopra
What do we say about our Priyanka Chopra? She is a house of talent – a great looker, stunningly good actress and an equally talented singer. If you still feel models can’t act, go watch one of her movies!
11. Sushmita Sen
Sushmita Sen, our Ex-Miss Universe is a perfect blend of beauty with brains. Trust her to light up any environment with that dazzling smile. Her cheerful presence and matured portrayal of characters makes her one of my favorite model-turned-actresses.
12. Zeenat Aman
Old is gold – Zeenat Aman proves this saying true and how! The lady made every young man run for his money with her stunningly sensuous looks and super confident acting skills. To my opinion, she does it even today but with more grace now. She came into the industry at a time when skin show was really a big deal, but the lady always made it look classy, never cheap.
Renowned for her effervescent persona and expressive acting, Juhi Chawla became a prominent figure in Indian cinema. She carved a niche for herself by excelling in both light-hearted comedies and intense dramas. Beyond her acting prowess, she has embraced roles as a producer and an advocate for environmental causes, showcasing her multifaceted talents and commitment to social issues. Juhi Chawla remains an enduring icon in Indian cinema, celebrated for her grace, talent, and philanthropic endeavors.
With her charm, versatility, and dedication, Rakul Preet captivates audiences across different film industries, cementing her place as a talented actress in Indian cinema. Rakul Preet Singh is celebrated not only for her acting skills but also for her dedication to fitness and wellness, making her a perfect role model for health enthusiasts. She made a remarkable transition from her successful modeling career to a sought-after talent in Bollywood and the South Indian film industry.
While many stars jumped right into the film industry, the majority of Bollywood actresses graced the ramp before working their magic in movies. With stunning stature, drop-dead gorgeous looks, and impeccable acting skills, these top 6 model-turned-actresses make us thankful for their presence in the acting industry. If you are someone who does not follow Bollywood news and has no idea about these actresses’ past, this one’s for you. Check out the infographic below for the top 6 actresses who started their modeling careers before joining Bollywood.
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
There are many prominent faces in Bollywood known for their exceptional acting. But many of these people were models who turned into Bollywood actresses. These people proved that models can be exceptional actors as well. Aishwariya Rai, Bipasha Basu, Deepika Padukone, Zeenat Aman, Sushmitha Sen, Preity Zinta, Priyanka Chopra, Lara Dutta, and Anushka Sharma are some of the Bollywood models who turned actresses. These women have not only showcased their acting skills but also set a stage for Bollywood beauty secrets, inspiring many with their flawless skin, radiant looks, and fitness regimes. These actresses are loved by many, and they also inspire many young talents to step into the industry and follow their dreams!
Illustration: Models Who Turned Bollywood Actresses
Image: Stable Diffusion/StyleCraze Design Team
Frequently Asked Questions
What skills do models possess that help them succeed in the acting profession?
Female models in India are known for their impeccable body language, graceful appearance, good understanding of camera angles, and fashion and beauty expertise. Additionally, models work under pressure and have strict schedules, enabling them to adapt to the stringent acting timelines. They lead interesting lives as models, which can give them a broad worldview that allows them to immerse themselves in dynamic roles. In these ways, a modeling background can be really helpful in forming a strong technical base in acting as a profession. However, being able to act itself is a different skill altogether that requires additional training.
How have models contributed to the evolution of Bollywood’s beauty standards?
Models are more organic in their understanding of beauty and fashion as opposed to the set standards in an industry like Bollywood. They bring a fresh charm to the screen and use their fame to share their real-life experiences with their fans.
What are some of the most successful movies featuring models-turned-actors?
There are many model-turned-actors, such as Aishwarya Rai, Deepika Padukone, and Priyanka Chopra, who have acted in movies like Ponniyin Selvan, Padmaavat, and Bajirao Mastani. They have also made a name for themselves internationally.
What are some notable differences between the acting styles of models and those of traditional actors?
Models have a refreshing screen presence. They may not have a polished air about themselves as trained actors, but their grace and charm is refreshing to watch. This means that they inevitably need to put in more hours to execute top tier performances, but they are used to a competitive professional field as models and know how to persevere. Models also make the industry seem more accessible as they come from varied social backgrounds.
Can modeling experience help actors with a successful career in Bollywood?
Modeling experience surely makes Bollywood more accessible but a successful career is not guaranteed unless they get to work with big names in the industry. Also, at the end of the day, acting is a non-negotiable skill in Bollywood. If a model is not able to perform well onscreen, their popularity will die down soon with their chances of succeeding as actors.
Key Takeaways
Many famous Bollywood actresses have transitioned seamlessly from modeling to the silver screen. They demonstrated their versatility and acting skills and gained fame.
Some of them, such as Aishwarya Rai, Priyanka Chopra, and Deepika Padukone, have also acted in Hollywood films and have achieved global recognition.
These model-turned-actresses have redefined Bollywood’s beauty and fashion standards and have carved a niche for themselves.
They are an inspiration for many newcomers who want to make it to the big screen and pursue their dreams in Bollywood.
Did you know that models make great actresses too? Check this video for the top 10 models who claimed their place in Bollywood! See how they made it and what it takes to be there!
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Jyotsana Rao is an engineering graduate from NIT, Nagpur, who discovered her love for writing during her undergraduate days. She is passionate about writing about everything related to beauty - makeup, fashion, hairstyles, skin care, or hair care and has 4 years of experience on writing in these genres.
Madhumati is an associate editor with seven years of professional experience. She has previously worked as an editor, proofreader, and a writer with various organizations, helping her navigate through the various facets of content creation and refinement with ease.
Bhumika is a content writer with 2.5 years of expertise in crafting articles across diverse genres. She graduated from the University of Delhi and completed her post-graduation from Indira Gandhi National Open University, Delhi.
Experience: 4 years
Trivia
Community Experiences
Join the conversation and become a part of our empowering community! Share your stories, experiences, and insights to connect with other beauty, lifestyle, and health enthusiasts.