Discover Bollywood actors who started with small roles but rose to stardom. Read their inspiring journeys from struggling artists to industry legends.
Success in Bollywood is not always immediate. Many of today’s biggest stars started their careers with minor roles, struggling to find their place in the industry. Through hard work, perseverance, and immense talent, they transformed from background characters to leading icons. Here are some Bollywood actors who started small but made it big.
Shah Rukh Khan: From TV Shows to the King of Bollywood
Before ruling Bollywood, Shah Rukh Khan began his acting career with television serials like Fauji and Circus in the late 1980s. His first Bollywood film, Deewana (1992), saw him in a supporting role, but his intense performance caught attention. With films like Baazigar and Darr, he proved his versatility, eventually becoming one of the most successful and loved actors in Indian cinema.
Nawazuddin Siddiqui: A Journey of Grit and Perseverance
Nawazuddin Siddiqui struggled for years, playing blink-and-miss roles in films like Sarfarosh and Munna Bhai M.B.B.S. before landing a significant role in Gangs of Wasseypur (2012). His powerful performances in The Lunchbox, Badlapur, and Manjhi: The Mountain Man cemented his status as one of the finest actors in Bollywood.
Ayushmann Khurrana: From Reality Shows to Box Office Star
Ayushmann Khurrana started as a contestant and winner of the reality show MTV Roadies before working as a television host. His Bollywood debut in Vicky Donor (2012) showcased his talent, and he has since become known for choosing unconventional yet impactful roles in films like Article 15, Andhadhun, and Bala.
Rajkummar Rao: From Small Roles to National Recognition
Rajkummar Rao’s journey began with minor roles in films like Love Sex Aur Dhokha. His breakthrough performance in Kai Po Che! put him in the spotlight, followed by award-winning performances in Newton, Trapped, and Stree. Today, he is regarded as one of the most talented actors in the industry.
Irrfan Khan: A Global Icon Who Started Small
The late Irrfan Khan struggled for years with small roles in films and television. His talent was finally recognized in Maqbool and The Namesake, leading to an illustrious career in Bollywood and Hollywood. Films like Piku, Hindi Medium, and Life of Pi showcased his immense talent, making him an international icon.
Akshay Kumar: From Background Dancer to Bollywood Superstar
Before making it big, Akshay Kumar worked as a chef and even appeared as a background dancer in several films. His first lead role in Saugandh (1991) did not gain much attention, but with Khiladi (1992), he became Bollywood’s action hero. Over the years, his versatility in comedy, action, and social films has made him a megastar.
Pankaj Tripathi: A Late Bloomer Who Redefined Acting
Pankaj Tripathi started with minor roles in films like Run and Omkara. It wasn’t until Gangs of Wasseypur that he gained recognition. With outstanding performances in Mirzapur, Newton, and Ludo, he has become one of the most respected actors in the industry today.
Conclusion
These actors prove that success does not come overnight. Their journeys are filled with struggles, perseverance, and an unwavering passion for cinema. They started with small roles but worked their way up to become icons, inspiring aspiring actors to follow their dreams. Who is your favorite Bollywood success story?
