Kareena Kapoor Khan, Aryan Khan to Ayushmann Khurrana: Bollywood actors who impressed us with their unconventional debut

The road to stardom in Bollywood often follows a familiar pattern, glamorous debuts, extravagant dance numbers, and larger-than-life screen presence. However, some actors have chosen to break the mould with unconventional first roles, setting themselves apart from the outset. Here’s a look at a few stars who took the road less travelled.

Kareena Kapoor – Refugee

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One of Bollywood’s most iconic actresses, Kareena Kapoor, stepped into the industry with Refugee, a film far from the typical commercial entertainer. Eschewing a glamorous launch, she played a simple, deglamorised character in J.P. Dutta’s cross-border love story, proving her mettle as a performer right from the beginning.

Shanaya Kapoor – Aankhon Ki Gustakhiyan

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For her much-anticipated debut, Shanaya Kapoor takes on the challenging role of a visually impaired girl in Aankhon Ki Gustakhiyan. In an industry where most star kids opt for glamorous and mainstream roles, Shanaya’s choice signals a bold and artistic approach to her career.

Aryan Khan – The Ba***ds of Bollywood

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Unlike most star kids who take the acting route, Aryan Khan chose to stay behind the camera, making his debut as a director. In an industry that often expects the offspring of superstars to step into the limelight as actors, Aryan’s decision to carve a path in filmmaking is a testament to his passion for storytelling.

Lakshya – KILL

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Instead of opting for a conventional rom-com, Lakshya entered Bollywood with a thriller, immediately setting a distinct tone for his filmography. His choice challenges the usual formula of newcomers leaning on light-hearted, love-centric narratives to win over audiences.

Ayushmann Khurrana – Vicky Donor

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Ayushmann Khurrana’s debut in Vicky Donor was nothing short of groundbreaking. Tackling the taboo topic of sperm donation in his very first film, he proved that audiences were ready for meaningful and socially relevant stories. This daring choice set the stage for his career, which continues to thrive on unconventional narratives.

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