From the shaded passed looks that illuminated the screen, to performances so electric they lingered long after the credits, 2025 felt like the year of talent. Whether it was gut-punching drama, wickedly funny comedy, or uncompromising storytelling, these actors did not just exist in a square of the screen but owned every inch of every frame. There is only one thing we can always count on in this swinging world of entertainment – the magic of those who made us feel, made us weep, made us scream, made us believe. And indeed, some of the best moments flowed directly on ZEE5. This was also the year that celebrated the top Bollywood actors of 2025.
Unni Mukundan
Unni Mukundan, a handsome, talented and versatile actor, appeared in the public consciousness with his Evergreen Films Mallu Singh, Vikramadithyan and Malikappuram. In 2024, his film Marco entered the 100 crore club, which came to be his best personally. From brooding performances in Janatha Garage to being an award-winning producer of films like Meppadiyan, Unni has shown himself to be more than an actor. His strong screen presence is even felt on different OTT platforms, where outstanding cinema is supported by strong talent.
Abhay Verma
Rising star Abhay Verma, who hails from Panipat in 2024, made a massive impact with Munjya, touted for his earnest performance and cracking the big-time household name. From Abhay’s formidable performance in The Family Man 2 and elective choices such as Safed, he has thoroughly impressed with his range. From humble positions as a junior artist, he is now one of the most talked-about stars of 2025 to watch.
Shahid Kapoor
Shahid Kapoor’s transformation from being a background dancer in Taal to being one of Bollywood’s leading actors is unadulterated cinematic growth. After winning hearts with his first film, Ishq Vishk, he became a star in Jab We Met, Kaminey, and Kabir Singh. He followed that up with award-winning performances in Haider and Udta Punjab, and even now with streaming-style success in Hollywood with Farzi, Shahid continues to shine.
Lakshya Kochhar
Lakshya Kochhar is creating a buzz as the next huge action hero to look out for. Having already captured the attention of audiences through his online series like Thoda Adjust Please, Industry, and Bambai Meri Jaan, he’s waiting for the perfect big-screen vehicle for his launch. With a compelling and animated screen presence and performances, Lakshya also has the opportunity to portray Ajju Kadri, a character inspired by Anees Ibrahim, in an eagerly anticipated film offering a thrilling new chapter in his acting career. His rise truly reflects one of the breakout performances in Indian cinema 2025.
Allu Arjun
India’s most legendary actor, Allu Arjun, known colloquially as the “Stylish Star,” is recognized for his spectacular dance moves and innumerable box office hit movies; his career began with the hit movie Arya followed by mega hit movies Race Gurram, Sarrainodu, and Pushpa: The Rise which even won him a National Award. Allu Arjun is generously charming, multi-faceted and yet vibrantly energetic and is still considered the king of Telugu cinema and cherished by his fans all over the country.
Yash
Yash (born Naveen Kumar Gowda) came from a modest background in Karnataka to become a pan-India superstar. After a short stint on television early in his career, Yash got his first film role in 2007 before finding early success with Moggina Manasu. He went on to make hits such as Google, Mr. and Mrs. Ramachari, and the K.G.F collection of films, where he was elevated to superstar status. Yash, also famous for having a dominating screen presence, also leads charitable efforts and causes through the Yasho Marga Foundation.
Tovino Thomas
Tovino Thomas is an enthusiastic star of Malayalam cinema and began his acting career in 2012 with Prabhuvinte Makkal. Thomas gained respect and popularity for his own virtues and character in ABCD, 7th Day and Ennu Ninte Moideen. He showed a spectrum of talent in Minnal Murali and had people all over the country. He has won numerous awards while leading a successful production house. Tovino has made a career for himself as an actor and producer. From being a fresh software engineer to being a superhero, his story is a real testament to talent, hard work and a passion for films.
Prabhas
Prabhas, known as the “Rebel Star,” is a box-office killer and became a global sensation from the Baahubali franchise. Prabhas has many ₹100 crore films and even has a wax statue at Madame Tussauds. He is one of India’s most bankable stars while having mass appeal and an unreplicable screen presence. From his start in Eeswar to hit films like Salaar and Kalki 2898 AD, he’s known for his work reinventing action movies.
In a year where performances outperformed storylines and stars found themselves stepping out of their role as actors and into that of storytellers, these actors just didn’t play a part; they created a legacy. 2025 is no one-off, not just talented newcomers who made an impact, but also seasoned names who have reintroduced themselves. In 2025, we saw talent at its finest. Their art overruled beyond screens, deep into hearts and headlines. Whereas cinemas brought magic to life, platforms such as ZEE5 ensured that magic filled every home. Cheers to the artists who made 2025 unforgettable, and one show at a time, led by the best actors who ruled the screen in 2025.
