This week-long series brings to you, next, the best of 2023 through the eyes of another among the very influential in Bollywood. Actor and Executive Committee member of CINTAA, Tinaa Ghaai gives us her list of the six best female actors of Hindi cinema. 

Award winning actor Tinaa Ghaai has a prolific career in the Indian entertainment industry spanning across various mediums, including films, television, and theatre. A multifaceted personality in the vibrant realm of Indian cinema, Tina has carved a niche for herself.

Her journey in the entertainment industry has been marked by a blend of passion, dedication, and an undeniable flair for acting. Her magnetic presence on screen, coupled with her ability to portray diverse characters with finesse, quickly caught the attention of audiences. Among her most lauded performances is that of Rani Laxmi Bai (Jhansi Ki Rani) for BR Films.

Tinaa's versatility has seen her effortlessly traverse genres, leaving an indelible mark in each role she undertakes. Her commitment to bringing authenticity and depth to her characters has earned her admiration and applause.

She has acted in Hindi, Punjabi, Haryanvi, Tulu, Telugu and Bhojpuri films and been a singer, too, in most of these languages including Rajasthani. She’s worked with the top-most studios, networks and talents of the Bollywood film industry and has given voice to songs produced by the best Indian music companies e.g. T Series, Zee Music, MH1 and Lara Music.

Her Bollywood films include Henna of RK Films, Izzatdaar, Shiva Shakti and Vidyarthi. Tinaa Ghaai is also a familiar face on Indian television, earning recognition for her performances. Some of her TV appearances include Zindagi Kitni Khoobsoorat Hai (2001-2003) and  an early season of the horror anthology series Aahat. Alongside her screen presence, Ghaai has also been associated with theatre productions.

Her contributions extend to various facets of the entertainment industry. Her involvement behind the scenes, as member of the executive committee of Cine and Television Artistes Association (CINTAA) is well known. She mentors aspiring talents, reflects her holistic understanding of the craft and her commitment to fostering creativity, and reaches out to help the actor’s community through her fund raising efforts and by providing support to senior members and their families.

As she continues to grace the screen with her talent and charisma, her journey serves as a testament to the power of passion in the world of Indian cinema. This year, she has selected the top six female actors of the Bollywood film industry for The Daily Eye.

Over to her list then…

DEEPIKA PADUKONE

Deepika Padukone has had a successful career in Bollywood and has ventured into Hollywood as well. She has been part of several successful movies as an actress and is known for her roles in films like Padmavat, Piku, Chennai Express, Cocktail, among others. She has also been involved in various endorsements and philanthropic endeavours.

Her latest, Pathaan (2023), and her guest appearance in the film Jawan (2023), both with Shah Rukh Khan, have brought her to the top of my list. According to me, there is nobody to compare with her when it comes to screen presence. 

ALIA BHATT

Alia Bhatt has garnered widespread acclaim for her performances in Bollywood. Bhatt has delivered remarkable performances in movies such as Raazi, Highway, Gully Boy, Udta Punjab, among others, showcasing her ability to portray diverse characters.

Apart from her acting skills, Alia Bhatt has also been involved in various brand endorsements, social initiatives, and has amassed a considerable following on social media platforms.

In 2023, Bhatt starred opposite Ranveer Singh in Karan Johar’s romantic comedy Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahaani, one of the highest grossing Hindi films of the year and expanded to American cinema with the Netflix Action film Heart of Stone. It’s impossible not to be completely in love with the national award winning actor Alia Bhatt!

SHRADHA KAPOOR

Shraddha Kapoor gained recognition for her roles in various movies such as Aashiqui 2, Ek Villain, Stree, Haider and Saaho. Her ability to portray a range of characters, from romantic leads to intense roles, showcased her versatility. Aside from her acting career, Shraddha Kapoor has also been involved in singing and has lent her voice to songs in some of her films.

The Outlook writes, “Shraddha Kapoor has been in the news throughout the year. Whether it was for her blockbuster hit film or her chartbusting dance numbers, she has been everywhere. Add to that her trendsetter outfits and immense social media fan following – Shraddha Kapoor has been ruling 2023 ever since she made a comeback”. Rightly so, because the film Tu Jhooti Main Makkaar, opposite Ranbir Kapoor, has catapulted this performer into the third position on my list of best female actors for 2023!

KAREENA KAPOOR

Kareena Kapoor Khan is known for her exceptional acting skills, charisma, and fashion sense. Throughout her career, she has delivered numerous memorable performances in a wide range of films. Some of her notable movies include Jab We Met, Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham, 3 Idiots, Udta Punjab, Chameli, and Veere Di Wedding, among others.

In addition to her film career, Kareena Kapoor Khan has been actively involved in brand endorsements, fashion, and various philanthropic endeavours. She has been vocal about women's issues and is UNICEF’s ambassador as well.

Her performance as Maya D’souza in Sujoy Ghosh’s Jaane Jaan is unforgettable. The film delves into the story of a single mother and her daughter entangled in a crime and also stars Vijay Varma and Jaideep Ahlawat in the lead roles with her. And, the Kareena Kapoor Khan-led The Buckingham Murders, has taken the international film scene by storm. Set to be released across Indian theatres in March 2024 and Directed by Hansal Mehta, it earned a well-deserved standing ovation at the prestigious BFI London Film Festival 2023.  I can go on and on about Kareena…here she’s No. four on my list!

KAJOL

Kajol has had a remarkable career spanning several decades. Known for her natural acting talent, infectious energy, and memorable performances, she has left an indelible mark on Indian cinema.

Throughout her career, Kajol has been part of numerous successful films, earning critical acclaim and a huge fan base. Some of her most celebrated movies include Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, My Name is Khan, Baazigar, Fanaa, and Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham among others. Her ability to portray a diverse range of characters, from spirited and bubbly to emotionally intense roles remains unparalleled.

Kajol starred in a segment of the Netflix anthology film Lust Stories 2 and the Disney+Hotstar legal drama series The Trial, an adaptation of the American show The Good Wife. I believe she’s back and how! Welcome back!

KRITI SANON

Kriti Sanon made her debut in Bollywood with the film Heropanti and gained recognition for her roles in movies like Dilwale, Bareilly Ki Barfi, Luka Chuppi, and Panipat. She has portrayed a variety of characters, displaying a mix of charm, depth, and relatability in her roles.

Known for her on-screen presence, elegance, and dedication to her craft, Kriti Sanon has carved a niche for herself in the industry. Apart from acting, she has been associated with fashion projects, and has actively engaged with her fanbase through social media platforms. As the curtains fall on 2023, this actor stands tall for me at number six.

With a National Award win this year, Kriti is undoubtedly unstoppable!