Every year, IMDb reveals the names that have captivated global audiences the most, and the 2025 Most Popular Indian Celebrities list is a celebration of rising stars, seasoned icons, and performers whose on-screen magnetism has shaped conversations across continents. From breakout romances to genre-defining blockbusters, these actors have not only dominated headlines but also reshaped the cultural narrative of Indian entertainment. Whether through powerful debuts, transformative roles, or long-awaited cinematic returns, each name on the list represents a unique moment in the evolving landscape of film.
As audiences worldwide increasingly embrace Indian cinema, IMDb’s rankings, based on the viewing habits of it’s 250 million monthly global visitors offer an authentic snapshot of who truly owned the screen this year.
Alongside the actors, the platform also revealed it’s Top 10 Most Popular Indian Directors of 2025, featuring a dynamic mix of established and emerging storytellers: Mohit Suri, Aryan Khan, Lokesh Kanagaraj, Anurag Kashyap, Prithviraj Sukumaran, R.S Prasanna, Anurag Basu, Dominic Arun, Laxman Utekar, and Neeraj Ghaywan. Their creativity and consistency kept audiences returning week after week, and helped shape the performances celebrated below.
Here’s a closer look at the stars who defined 2025:
1) Ahaan Panday: The Debutant Who Became a Sensation
Taking the No.1 spot is Ahaan Panday, whose debut in Mohit Suri’s Saiyaara turned him into an overnight phenomenon. As a romantic lead opposite Aneet Padda, Ahaan’s sincerity, box-next-door charm, and emotional depth resonated instantly with viewers. His arrival marks one of the most exciting debuts in recent memory.
2) Aneet Padda: A Breakthrough That Captured Hearts
Sliding into second place is Aneet Padda, who delivered a magnetic performance in Saiyaara. Her expressive range and fresh screen presence elevated the film’s emotional core, earning her widespread acclaim and establishing her as one of the fastest-rising stars of the year.
3) Aamir Khan: A Timeless Icon Still Commanding the Spotlight
In third place, Aamir Khan proves once again that true stardom never fades. His role in the heartfelt blockbuster Sitaare Zameen Par struct a chord with audiences, reaffirming his reputation for choosing stories that blend social resonance with cinematic brilliance.
4) Ishaan Khatter: A Compelling Voice of Contemporary Cinema
Landing fourth on the lost, Ishaan Khatter delivered one of the standout performances of the year in Homebound. Acting alongside Vishal Jethwa and Janhvi Kapoor, Ishaan showcased emotional complexity and maturity, solidifying his status as a powerhouse of the new generation.
5) Lakshya: The Internet’s New Favourite
With his role in Aryan Khan’s bold directorial debut The Ba***ds of Bollywood, Lakshya skyrocketed into national prominence. His ability to slip into diverse characters, coupled with soaring online popularity, places him firmly in IMDb’s top tier.
6) Rashmika Mandanna: The Evergreen Crowd Favorite
Fondly known as the nation’s crush, Rashmika Mandanna claims sixth place. With back-to-back hits like Chhaava and Thamma, she continues to charm audiences across languages, strengthening her cross-industry appeal.
7) Kalyani Priyadarshan: A Star in Malayalam Cinema’s Biggest Hit
Ranked seventh, Kalyani Priyadarshan enjoyed a career-defining moment with Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra. The film, now the highest-grossing Malayalam movie of all time, propelled her into widespread recognition and cemented her position as one of 2025’s most compelling performers.
8) Triptii Dimri: A Performer of Intensify and Grace
Eight on the list is Triptii Dimri, whose dramatic performance is Dhadak 2 earned rave reviews. Known for choosing emotionally layered roles, she continues to be one of the most talked-about actress in contemporary cinema.
9) Rukmini Vasanth: A Royal Revelation in Critically Acclaimed Saga
Securing ninth place, Rukmini Vasanth captivated audiences as Princess Kanakavathi in Kantara: A Legend Chapter-1. Her regal poise and nuanced acting added depth to one of the year’s most celebrated films.
10) Rishab Shetty: The Visionary Storyteller-Performer
Closing the list is Rishab Shetty, whose deeply rooted performance in Kantara: A Legend Chapter-1, a film he also conceptualised, earned both national and global praise. His ability to merge folklore with cinematic artistry reinforces his reputation as one of India’s most distinctive creative voices.
A Year That Blended Fresh Energy With Familiar Brilliance
The IMDb 2025 Most Popular Indian Celebrity list beautifully reflects the diversity and dynamism of today’s entertainment landscape, where newcomers rise rapidly, established icons reinvent themselves, and regional cinema continues to break barriers.
As these 10 talents lead the way, and a new wave of directors reshape storytelling across industries, Indian cinema’s global influence has never felt stronger. With creativity flourishing across generations, 2025 has proved to be a remarkable year and an exciting preview of what the future Indian entertainment holds.
Sources: Deccan Chronicle, WION
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