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Brilliant but underrated Bollywood actresses who deserve more spotlight

TOI Entertainment Desk
| ETimes.in | Last updated on - Aug 17, 2025, 17:00 IST
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1/5

Divya Dutta – The Scene-Stealing Performer

Known for her versatility and nuanced acting, Divya Dutta has delivered powerful performances in films like Veer-Zaara (2004), Delhi-6 (2009), and Bhaag Milkha Bhaag (2013). She won the National Film Award for Best Supporting Actress for Irada (2017) and is acclaimed for portraying layered characters across Hindi, Punjabi, and international projects. Despite her talent, she often remains underappreciated compared to mainstream leads.

2/5

Kirti Kulhari – Breaking Stereotypes with Strong Roles

Kirti Kulhari rose to prominence with Pink (2016), where she portrayed a woman fighting for justice against societal prejudice. She has since made a mark with unconventional projects like Indu Sarkar (2017), Uri: The Surgical Strike (2019), and the web series Four More Shots Please! Her choice of bold, complex roles showcases her ability to blend commercial and content-driven cinema.

3/5

Radhika Apte – The Face of Experimental Storytelling

Radhika Apte has built a reputation as one of India’s most fearless and experimental actresses. From Parched (2015) and Andhadhun (2018) to Netflix originals like Lust Stories and Sacred Games, she seamlessly navigates indie films, mainstream blockbusters, and global projects. Her refusal to be typecast has made her a favorite among filmmakers seeking authentic performances.

4/5

Sayani Gupta – A Natural on Screen

Sayani Gupta has carved a niche in both films and web content, with memorable roles in Margarita with a Straw (2014), Fan (2016), Article 15 (2019), and the popular series Four More Shots Please! Her ability to adapt to vastly different genres — from emotional dramas to political thrillers — showcases her range, though she still awaits the widespread recognition her talent deserves.

5/5

Tillotama Shome – The Indie Cinema Powerhouse

Tillotama Shome is celebrated for her deeply researched, immersive acting in independent cinema. She gained attention with Monsoon Wedding (2001) and later delivered critically acclaimed performances in Qissa (2013), Sir (2018), and The Night Manager (2023). Often described as a “director’s actor,” her understated yet emotionally potent style keeps her in the critics’ spotlight but away from mainstream hype.

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Copyright © May 27, 2026, 01.39PM IST Bennett, Coleman & Co. Ltd. All rights reserved. For reprint rights: Times Syndication Service