Top 10 Legendary Bollywood Actresses of All Time

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Bollywood, the vibrant heart of Indian cinema, has gifted us some truly unforgettable female stars. These women have broken boundaries, redefined beauty and talent, and become symbols of strength, grace, and cinematic brilliance. Among them, one name that truly shines is Kajol

In this article, we’ll look at the Top 10 Legendary Bollywood Actresses of All Time, highlighting their achievements, iconic roles, and lasting impact on the film industry and audiences alike.

1. Kajol – The Eternal Queen of Emotions

When you talk about versatility, natural acting, and magnetic screen presence, one name instantly comes to mind – Kajol. She is one of the most beloved and acclaimed actresses in Bollywood history.

Why She’s a Legend:

Kajol made her debut in 1992 with Bekhudi and became an overnight star with Baazigar (1993). Over the years, she delivered unforgettable performances in films like:

Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (1995)
Kuch Kuch Hota Hai (1998)
Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham (2001)
Fanaa (2006)
My Name is Khan (2010)
Tanhaji: The Unsung Warrior (2020)

What Makes Her Unique:

Natural Acting: She brings life to every character she plays.
Bold Choices: From bubbly romantic roles to intense dramas.
Box Office Queen: One of the few actresses with multiple blockbusters over decades.
Awards: She has won 6 Filmfare Awards for Best Actress and numerous other honors.

Legacy:

Kajol represents the golden era of Bollywood and continues to influence new generations. Her on-screen chemistry with Shah Rukh Khan is legendary and remains unmatched.

2. Madhuri Dixit – The Dancing Diva

Known for her enchanting smile and graceful dance, Madhuri Dixit ruled Bollywood during the 1980s and 1990s. Her expressions, energy, and effortless charm made her the heartthrob of millions.

Iconic Films:

Tezaab (1988)
Dil (1990)
Hum Aapke Hain Koun (1994)
Devdas (2002)

She is considered one of the best dancers in Indian cinema and continues to inspire with her elegance.

3. Sridevi – The First Female Superstar

Sridevi was not just an actress, but a phenomenon. With her expressive eyes and incredible comic timing, she dominated both South Indian and Hindi cinema.

Highlights:

Chandni (1989)
Mr. India (1987)
English Vinglish (2012)

Her comeback in English Vinglish proved that her charm and talent were timeless.

4. Hema Malini – The Dream Girl

A classical dancer, a graceful actress, and a successful politician, Hema Malini is one of Bollywood’s most respected icons.

Notable Films:

Sholay (1975)
Seeta Aur Geeta (1972)
Dream Girl (1977)

Her career spans over five decades, making her a true legend.

5. Nargis – The Face of Classic Indian Cinema

Nargis is known for her naturalistic acting style and powerful performances in the early era of Bollywood. She starred in one of India’s most important films – Mother India (1957).

Contributions:

First actress to be honored with the Padma Shri.
A symbol of motherly love in Indian cinema.

6. Meena Kumari – The Tragedy Queen

Known for her melancholic roles and soulful expressions, Meena Kumari portrayed deep emotional roles that left a lasting impression on viewers.

Top Films:

Pakeezah (1972)
Sahib Bibi Aur Ghulam (1962)

Her life mirrored many of her tragic roles, adding depth and realism to her performances.

7. Rekha – The Mysterious Beauty

From glam roles to complex characters, Rekha has played them all. Her transformation from a typical heroine to a bold, fearless actress is inspiring.

Memorable Roles:

Umrao Jaan (1981)
Silsila (1981)
Khoon Bhari Maang (1988)

Her style, charisma, and strong screen presence make her a timeless icon.

8. Nutam – The Graceful Star

Nutan was known for portraying strong female characters in an era when most roles were male-dominated. She balanced sensitivity with strength in her acting.

Significant Films:

Bandini (1963)
Sujata (1959)
Seema (1955)

She set a benchmark for acting with her subtle yet powerful performances.

9. Waheeda Rehman – The Elegant Performer

A perfect blend of beauty and brains, Waheeda Rehman is regarded for her soulful performances and classical dance.

Film Highlights:

Guide (1965)
Pyaasa (1957)
Kaagaz Ke Phool (1959)

She brought grace and dignity to every role she played.

10. Vyjayanthimala – The Classical Dancer Turned Star

Vyjayanthimala was the first South Indian actress to become a major Bollywood star. A trained Bharatanatyam dancer, she added an artistic layer to her performances.

Known For:

Madhumati (1958)
Sangam (1964)
Naya Daur (1957)

She was a trendsetter and a pioneer for actresses from the South.

Final Thoughts

Bollywood has seen many shining stars, but only a few have left an everlasting impression. These top 10 legendary actresses have not only contributed to Indian cinema artistically but have also become role models for millions.

At the heart of this legacy is Kajol, who leads the list with her unmatched talent, emotion, and dedication to her craft. From bubbly teenage characters to complex roles as a mother and warrior, she has done it all — and continues to shine.

If you're a fan of classic Bollywood or want to know more about its iconic actresses, this list is a celebration of cinematic history. Each name here represents a chapter in Bollywood’s rich story — and together, they are the soul of Indian cinema.

FAQs – Top Legendary Bollywood Actresses

Q1: Why is Kajol considered a legendary Bollywood actress?

Kajol is considered legendary because of her unmatched acting skills, her massive fan base, and her contribution to some of Bollywood’s most iconic films. She has remained relevant for over three decades and continues to inspire.

Q2: Who has the best on-screen chemistry with Kajol?

Kajol's chemistry with Shah Rukh Khan is the most celebrated. They’ve worked together in several blockbusters and are considered one of the most iconic Bollywood pairs.

Q3: Are these actresses still active in the industry?

Some of them, like Kajol, Madhuri Dixit, and Rekha, continue to act or appear in special roles, while others have retired or sadly passed away.

Q4: Who is the most awarded actress among them?

Actresses like Kajol, Madhuri Dixit, and Nutan have won multiple Filmfare Awards and national honors for their performances.

Q5: What makes Kajol different from other actresses?

Kajol is known for her raw and real acting style. She rarely follows beauty norms, wears minimal makeup, and focuses purely on performance — which makes her stand out.