Most of our Hindi movies lovers have seen child artists growing up to become leading Bollywood stars. Many of today’s leading actors began their journeys as Yesteryears child artists, and their early experiences have shaped their successful careers. Let’s take a closer look at some of these stars and their current projects.
Alia Bhatt
Alia Bhatt made her debut as a child actor in the 1999 film Sangharsh, where she played the younger version of Preity Zinta’s character. Even in her brief appearance, Alia’s presence was memorable, showcasing her natural talent from an early age. Alia now has grown into one of the most successful and versatile actresses in Bollywood. After her breakthrough in Student of the Year (2012), she has delivered powerful performances in films like Raazi, Gully Boy, and Gangubai Kathiawadi. Alia is currently working on multiple high-profile projects, including Jee Le Zaraa, where she stars alongside Priyanka Chopra and Katrina Kaif, and her Hollywood debut in Heart of Stone.
Adarsh Gourav
Adarsh Gourav began his acting journey as a child artist in the critically acclaimed film My Name Is Khan (2010), where he played the younger version of Shah Rukh Khan’s character. His portrayal of a young boy struggling with autism was both touching and impactful. Adarsh gained international recognition for his role in The White Tiger (2021), which earned him a BAFTA nomination. He continues to make waves with his unique choice of roles, starring in projects like Kho Gaye Hum Kahan and Extrapolations, an Apple TV+ series that explores the impacts of climate change. Adarsh’s next film is Reema Kagti’s Superboys where he will be seen in a very interesting character.
Aditya Seal
Aditya Seal first caught the audience’s attention as a teenager in Ek Chhoti Si Love Story (2002). In the film, he played a young boy who becomes infatuated with an older woman, portrayed by Manisha Koirala. His portrayal of the curious and naive protagonist marked the beginning of his acting career. Aditya has since transitioned into mainstream Bollywood, known for his performances in films like Tum Bin 2, Student of the Year 2, and Indoo Ki Jawani. He was recently seen in the rom-com Khel Khel Mein, where he stars alongside Akshay Kumar, Taapsee Pannu, south actress Pragya Jaiswal. Aditya is currently shooting with Kajol and Prabhudeva starrer Maharagni and Amar Prem.
Kunal Khemu
Kunal Khemu was a prominent child actor in the 1990s, starring in hit films like Hum Hain Rahi Pyar Ke (1993), Raja Hindustani (1996), and Zakhm (1998). His performances as a child were widely praised, especially in Zakhm, where he played the younger version of Ajay Devgn’s character. Kunal has successfully transitioned into a leading actor, known for his roles in films like Go Goa Gone, Kalank, and Lootcase. He is also making his directorial debut with Madgaon Express, a film that he has written and will direct, showcasing his versatility in the industry.
Akshay Oberoi
Few people know that Akshay Oberoi began his acting career as a child artist in the American film American Chai (2002), where he played a teenager named Neel. This early experience in front of the camera set the stage for his diverse career in Bollywood. Akshay has since become known for his intense and versatile performances in films like Pizza, Gurgaon, and Inside Edge. He is rumoured working on the action-packed film Toxic alongside Yash, and he recently completed shooting for a mixed martial arts film, highlighting his dedication to his craft.
Sanjana Sanghi
Sanjana Sanghi made her debut in Bollywood with the film Rockstar (2011), where she played the role of Nargis Fakhri’s sister. Her brief but impactful role as a young girl caught in the complexities of family and love left a lasting impression. Sanjana gained widespread recognition for her role in Dil Bechara (2020), opposite late actor Sushant Singh Rajput. She was recently working in the action thriller Om: The Battle Within alongside Aditya Roy Kapur, Dhak Dhak and Kadak Singh with Pankaj Tripathi playing her daughter, further establishing herself as a talented leading actress.
Fatima Sana Shaikh
Fatima Sana Shaikh began her career as a child artist in Chachi 420 (1997), where she played the role of Kamal Haasan’s daughter. She also appeared in other films like One 2 Ka 4 and Tahaan, showcasing her acting chops from a young age. Fatima gained national fame for her role as wrestler Geeta Phogat in Dangal (2016). She continues to impress with her performances in films like Thugs of Hindostan, Ludo, and Ajeeb Daastaans. Fatima was recently seen working in Sam Bahadur alongside Vicky Kaushal, where she played former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. Her next is Anurag Basu’s Metro In Dino sharing screenspace with Ali Fazal.
Tara Sutaria
Tara Sutaria began her career with Disney Channel India, starring in shows like Big Bada Boom (2010), The Suite Life of Karan & Kabir, and Oye Jassi. Her work on these shows as a teenager established her as a familiar face among young audiences. Tara made her Bollywood debut with Student of the Year 2 (2019) and has since starred in films like Marjaavaan and Ek Villain Returns. She was recently in a titular role Apurva, a survival thriller that promises to be a game-changer in her career, showcasing her growth as an actress.
