They’d a head start

Bollywood has a long history of nurturing talent from a young age. Many of today’s leading actors began their journeys as child artistes, and their early experiences have shaped their successful careers. Let’s take a closer look at some of these stars.

Brightest star: 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. 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 will be next seen in Jee Le Zaraa.

Roaring start: Adarsh Gourav

Adarsh Gourav began his acting journey as a child artiste in the critically acclaimed film My Name Is Khan (2010), where he played the younger version of Shah Rukh Khan’s character. Adarsh gained international recognition for his role in The White Tiger (2021). He continues to make waves with his unique choice of roles, starring in projects like Kho Gaye Hum Kahan and Extrapolations.

Upward move: 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 infatuated with an older woman, portrayed by Manisha Koirala. Aditya is now known for his performances in films like Tum Bin 2, Student of the Year 2 and Indoo Ki Jawani. He was last seen in the film Khel Khel Mein.

Complete package: 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). Kunal has successfully transitioned into a leading actor. He is known for his roles in films like Go Goa Gone, Kalank and Lootcase. He also made his directorial debut with Madgaon Express.

Action zone: Akshay Oberoi

Akshay Oberoi began his acting career as a child artiste in the Hollywood film American Chai (2002), where he played a teenager named Neel. Akshay has since become known for his intense and versatile performances in films like Pizza, Gurgaon and Inside Edge. He is currently working in the action-packed film Toxic.

Rocking start: 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 also seen in the action thriller Om: The Battle Within.

Good going: Fatima Sana Shaikh

Fatima Sana Shaikh began her career as a child artiste in Chachi 420 (1997), where she played the role of Kamal Haasan’s daughter. She also appeared in 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 later acted in films like Thugs of Hindostan, Ludo and Ajeeb Daastaans. Fatima was last seen in Sam Bahadur alongside Vicky Kaushal.

Students’ association: Tara Sutaria

Tara Sutaria began her career with Disney Channel India, starring in shows like Big Bada Boom (2010), The Suite Life of Karan and Kabir and Oye Jassi. Tara made her Bollywood debut with Student of the Year 2 (2019) and has since starred in films like Marjaavaan, Ek Villain Returns and Apurva.