Rashmika Mandanna, Pragya Jaiswal to Sara Arjun : TOP 5 Actresses Who Headlined Blockbusters in 2025

2025 saw actresses light the screens on fire with performances so compelling that it actually boosted the film’s commercial success. Ranging from a period action thriller to action-fantasy, spy action thrillers and a lot more – actresses headlined the films as well as pushed beyond the boundaries of conventional roles. As the year comes to an end, here’s looking at top 5 blockbuster spectacles of the year!

*Rashmika Mandanna – Chhaava*
Rashmika Mandanna ruled 2025 with this epic historical action drama film and proved her mettle by essaying Yesubai Bhonsale, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj’s on-screen wife. What made her a standout was her conviction and her understanding of her character that added significant realism and honesty to her portrayal. Directed by Laxman Utekar, Chhaava made an impressive collection of Rs.708.5 crore gross.

*Pragya Jaiswal – Daaku Maharaaj*
Pragya Jaiswal kickstarted the year with Daaku Maharaaj and she not only served a cult classic but also impressed audiences by performing action sequences as a fierce Kaveri. She received widespread appreciation from the audience and critics for pulling off a role that’s far from the ordinary, while also balancing the film’s emotional world. The film marked Pragya’s second collaboration with Nandamuri Balakrishna, and their natural chemistry on-screen emerged as a highlight, winning the hearts of audiences across the nation. Directed by KS Ravindra, the film made an impressive collection of Rs.107.50 crore.

*Rukmini Vasanth – Kantara Chapter 1*
Despite being early in her career, Rukmini Vasanth impressed everyone with a stellar portrayal in Kantara: Chapter 1. As Kanakavathi, a pivotal figure who starts off as a princess but reveals herself as a dangerous villain, Rukmini won hearts by going beyond the ‘good girl’ roles. Directed by Rishab Shetty, the film earned Rs.224.39 crore.

*Aneet Padda – Saiyaara*
Aneet Padda stunned audiences with her big-screen debut, Saiyaara. From deeply moving dialogues to feeling the character’s depth and performing it later, Aneet’s approach towards Saiyaara and her character boosted the film’s commercial reach and appeal. Directed by Mohit Suri, the film earned Rs.409.18 crore gross.

*Sara Arjun – Dhurandhar*
Sara Arjun emerged as a surprise package in Dhurandhar, her big-screen debut. In an action spy thriller that rides on action and intensity, Sara fused the plot with a sense of softness and femininity, and won hearts with her charming presence. Directed by Aditya Dhar, Dhurandhar has made an impressive collection of Rs.579.20 crore and it still continues with its theatrical run.

These films not only exploded on-screen, but dominated 2025 for all the right reasons!