IANS Year Ender 2025: From Ranbir to Ranveer: 10 actors of Indian cinema who ruled the first quarter of the century
Hollywood’s Heartbeat: Who Shaped the Bollywood Landscape in the First Quarter of the 21st Century?
As the first 25 years of the new millennium wrap up, it’s worth pausing to celebrate those performers who captured the spotlight—and our affection—during that time span.
Hrithik Roshan burst onto the scene with the 2000 blockbuster Kaho Naa… Pyaar Hai. Over the next decade and a half, he delivered a string of memorable roles in films such as Koi… Mil Gaya, Krrish, Lakshya, Jodhaa Akbar, Guzaarish, Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara, and War.
Abhishek Bachchan made his debut the same year in Refugee, opposite Kareena Kapoor. He followed up with solid solo successes like Bunty Aur Babli and Guru, while also appearing in ensemble hits such as Dus, Dostana, Bol Bachchan, Happy New Year, Housefull 3, and the Dhoom franchise.
Ranbir Kapoor stepped into the limelight with the 2007 film Saawariya. Since then, he has showcased his versatility—from the carefree “man‑child” in Wake Up Sid to a tormented musician in Rockstar, and even a quirky, deaf‑and‑mute protagonist in Barfi!.
Ranveer Singh got his start in Band Baaja Baaraat (2010) and has grown into one of Bollywood’s most dynamic performers. His filmography includes Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram‑Leela, Bajirao Mastani, Padmaavat, Gully Boy, and the recent hit Dhurandhar.
Shahid Kapoor first appeared in the 2003 romantic comedy Ishq Vishk. Highlights from his career include Jab We Met, Kaminey, Kabir Singh, Vivaah, Udta Punjab, and Farzi.
Ayushmann Khurrana carved out a niche with thoughtful choices, from Vicky Donor (2012) through Dum Laga Ke Haisha, Bareilly Ki Barfi, Shubh Mangal Saavdhan (and its follow‑up), Badhaai Ho, Dream Girl, Bala, and the recent Andhadhun.
Vicky Kaushal emerged with the indie drama Masaan (2015) and quickly proved his range with films such as Raazi, Sanju, Uri, Udham Singh, Dunki, Sam Bahadur, and the more experimental Chhaava.
Kartik Aaryan began his career with Pyaar Ka Punchnama (2011) and has steadily become a bankable name in Bollywood. His latest film, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, pulled in strong box office numbers, and the upcoming drama Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri is already generating buzz among fans.
Rajkummar Rao first appeared in Love Sex Aur Dhokha and had a handful of supporting roles in Gangs of Wasseypur – Part 2 and Talaash: The Answer Lies Within. He rose to prominence with critically acclaimed performances in Kai Po Che! and Shahid. Continued successes include Queen, Aligarh, Bareilly Ki Barfi, Trapped, and Stree.
Varun Dhawan entered the industry with Student of the Year (2012). He went on to headline romantic comedies like Main Tera Hero, Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania, and Badrinath Ki Dulhania, danced in ABCD 2, tackled the thriller Badlapur, and even starred in the period drama Kalank, showcasing his adaptability as a leading man.
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