From star kids taking their first step into the industry to promising newcomers making a strong impact, Bollywood welcomed a wave of new talents in 2025.
This year, the breakout star was Ahaan Panday. Cousin of actress Ananya Panday, he garnered significant attention for his impressive role in Mohit Suri’s Saiyaara, which became the second-highest-grossing film of 2025.
Alongside him, Aneet Padda also stole the limelight as the innocent Vaani. Her on-screen chemistry with Ahaan became one of the most talked-about aspects of the film.
Raveena Tandon’s daughter, Rasha Thadani, debuted in Bollywood with the period drama, Azaad. Her dance in the song “Uyi Amma” left viewers stunned and went viral.
Ajay Devgn launched his nephew, Aaman Devgan, with the film Azaad, which was released in January. Although the film tanked at the box office, his performance stood out.
Ibrahim Ali Khan, the son of actors Saif Ali Khan and Amrita Singh, made his debut with Nadaaniyan, which featured Khushi Kapoor. He was next seen in Kajol and Prithviraj Sukumaran’s movie Sarzameen, earning praise for his performance.
After a long wait, Shanaya Kapoor debuted with Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan, featuring Vikrant Massey. Although the film was a box-office failure, the actress’s performance earned her widespread praise.
Veer Pahariya debuted with Akshay Kumar’s action-packed film Sky Force, which hit the theatres in January. He stole the spotlight with his dance to the song, Rang.
Harnaaz Kaur Sandhu, who won Miss Universe in 2021, stepped into Bollywood with Tiger Shroff’s Baaghi 4. She played a dual role in the action thriller.
Shubhangi Dutt made her debut in Tanvi the Great, directed by Anupam Kher. She portrayed an autistic girl and received acclaim for her performance.
Although Sara Arjun appeared in various regional films as a child artist, she made her debut as a leading lady in Ranveer Singh’s Dhurandhar. She was seen in Mani Ratnam’s epic duology Ponniyin Selvan I & II in a young role.
Akshay Kumar’s niece Simar Bhatia is all set to make her debut with Ikkis, featuring Agastya Nanda. The film also marks the legendary actor Dharmendra’s final film.
