Child Stars to Screen Icons: 10 Bollywood Actors Who Shone From an Early Age

Bollywood has seen countless actors rise to fame, but some of them began their journeys much earlier than others. Several of today’s most celebrated stars started out as child artists, appearing in films long before their official debut as leading actors. With talent, persistence, and a deep understanding of the craft from a young age, these actors have gone on to build impressive careers.

Alia Bhatt
Alia Bhatt made her on-screen debut in the 1999 thriller Sangharsh, playing the younger version of Preity Zinta’s character. Though it was a small role, her presence was memorable. Today, she is among the most successful actors in the industry, with films like Raazi, Gully Boy, and Gangubai Kathiawadi to her name.

Kunal Khemu
Kunal Khemu was a familiar face in the 1990s, starring in popular films like Hum Hain Rahi Pyar Ke, Raja Hindustani, and Zakhm. His emotional depth and expressive acting stood out even then. Now, he is recognized for his roles in Lootcase and Go Goa Gone and recently turned director with Madgaon Express.

Fatima Sana Shaikh
Fatima started as a child actor in Chachi 420 and went on to appear in other films like One 2 Ka 4. Her big break came in 2016 when she played wrestler Geeta Phogat in Dangal. Since then, she has continued to impress in films like Ludo and Ajeeb Daastaans.

Aditya Seal
Aditya Seal began his career as a teenager in Ek Chhoti Si Love Story in 2002, a film that explored adolescent curiosity. Over time, he made his mark in youth-centric films like Student of the Year 2 and Indoo Ki Jawani. He was most recently seen in the romantic comedy Khel Khel Mein.

Sanjana Sanghi
Sanjana Sanghi first appeared in Rockstar as Nargis Fakhri’s younger sister, a small yet noticeable role. She gained widespread attention for her lead role in Dil Bechara opposite Sushant Singh Rajput. She later appeared in the action film Om: The Battle Within alongside Aditya Roy Kapur.

Akshay Oberoi
Akshay Oberoi made his screen debut in the U.S.-based film American Chai as a teen. He later took on diverse roles in Bollywood, starring in intense films like Pizza and Gurgaon. His recent projects include the MMA drama Fighter and the Yash-led film Toxic.

Adarsh Gourav
Adarsh Gourav entered the industry with a moving performance as young Shah Rukh Khan’s character in My Name Is Khan. He gained global attention for his lead role in The White Tiger, which earned him a BAFTA nomination. He continues to choose unconventional roles, including his recent appearance in Kho Gaye Hum Kahan.

Hrithik Roshan
Before his star-making debut in Kaho Naa… Pyaar Hai, Hrithik acted in films like Aasha and Bhagwan Dada as a child. Coming from a film family, he had early exposure to the industry. His polished debut and continued success make him one of Bollywood’s most iconic stars.

Imran Khan
Imran Khan appeared as a child in films like Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak and Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar. He rose to fame as a romantic lead with Jaane Tu… Ya Jaane Na in 2008. Though currently away from films, his early and adult roles left a mark on the audience.

Urmila Matondkar
Urmila Matondkar began her journey with acclaimed performances in Masoom and Karm as a child actor. She later redefined herself with bold and versatile roles in films like Rangeela and Kaun. Her transition from child star to leading lady was both graceful and powerful.