Mumbai (Commonwealth Union)_ Bollywood, India’s illustrious film industry, is known for its glamour, talent, and blockbuster movies. However, in recent years, many of its brightest stars have transitioned from the silver screen to the entrepreneurial arena, using their fame to build successful business empires. This article explores the journeys of several Bollywood celebrities who have made significant strides in entrepreneurship, demonstrating how creativity, resilience, and a strategic mindset can lead to remarkable achievements beyond acting.
Also read: Why a Himalayan snake was named after a Hollywood actor!
Priyanka Chopra: A global icon
Priyanka Chopra, known as Bollywood’s desi girl, has established herself as a multifaceted entrepreneur. With her restaurant Sona in New York, which offers a taste of Indian cuisine, and her haircare line Anomaly, Chopra has made waves in the business world. Her products are vegan and cruelty-free, ranging from shampoos to deep-conditioning masks, and reflect a commitment to quality and sustainability. In 2022, she earned an impressive £429 million, showcasing her entrepreneurial acumen. Additionally, her collaboration with the sparkling water brand BON V! V Spiked Seltzer highlights her versatility in different markets.
Also read: Karwa Chauth 2024: When Bollywood beauties celebrated…..!
Shilpa Shetty: The wellness pioneer
Shilpa Shetty has successfully transitioned from actress to business mogul with her numerous ventures. She opened Bastian At The Top, an upscale restaurant located on the 48th floor of Mumbai’s tallest building, promising a unique dining experience. Her wellness empire began with IOSIS, a spa chain she launched in 2009. Moreover, her partnership with VLCC to provide yoga and physiotherapy services demonstrates her commitment to health and wellness, making her a respected figure in the industry.
Also read: Actor Ajith Kumar’s historic Andaman motorcycle ride aims to promote motorcycle tourism in India!
Alia Bhatt: The young innovator
Alia Bhatt, a rising star in Bollywood, has made her mark in the startup ecosystem. In 2013, she co-founded Style Cracker, a personalized styling service. Her recent venture, Ad-E-Mamma, a children’s fashion brand catering to kids aged 4-12 years, has reportedly earned Rs 150 crore. Bhatt’s entrepreneurial spirit is evident in her ability to identify market needs and create products that resonate with consumers.
Akshay Kumar: The fitness advocate
Known for his action-packed roles, Akshay Kumar has also emerged as a significant player in the business domain. He co-founded Hari Om Productions with his mother and wife, Twinkle Khanna, to produce films that resonate with audiences. Kumar is an advocate for sports and fitness, exemplified by his investment in the Khalsa Warriors team in the World Kabaddi League. His ventures reflect a dedication to promoting a healthy lifestyle, enhancing his brand beyond entertainment.
Anushka Sharma: A fashion and film producer
Anushka Sharma has successfully carved her niche in both the fashion and film industries. She launched her clothing line, Nush, which reflects her personal style and promotes a feel-good ethos. Additionally, she co-founded a film production company that has produced critically acclaimed projects, such as NH10 and Paatal Lok. With earnings around Rs 444 crores from her production house, Sharma’s impact on the cinematic landscape is undeniable. Her investment in the D2C snack brand Slurrp Farm further showcases her diverse entrepreneurial interests.
Katrina Kaif: Empowering beauty
Katrina Kaif’s foray into the beauty industry with her brand Kay Beauty has been well-received, earning approximately USD 12 million annually. Launched in collaboration with Nykaa, Kay Beauty is not just about cosmetics; it embodies a message of empowerment, encouraging women to embrace their inner beauty and confidence. Kaif’s ability to merge personal values with business initiatives exemplifies her thoughtful approach to entrepreneurship.
Parineeti Chopra: The health innovator
Parineeti Chopra has joined the ranks of entrepreneurs by investing in Clensta, a health and personal care startup. The brand’s innovative offerings, including waterless bathing products, highlight Chopra’s commitment to sustainability and her desire to support groundbreaking solutions in the market. Her partnership with Clensta reflects a keen interest in ventures that align with her vision for health and wellness.
Sonam Kapoor: Fashion with accessibility
Co-founded by Sonam and Rhea Kapoor, Rheson embodies the concept of accessible glamour. This fashion brand focuses on quality fabrics and designs that appeal to the modern Indian woman. By bridging the gap between aspiration and accessibility, Rheson has carved a unique identity in the fashion industry, showcasing the Kapoor sisters’ understanding of contemporary trends.
Sonakshi Sinha: Creative nail art
Sonakshi Sinha has ventured into the beauty sector with her press-on nail brand, Soezi. Collaborating with Srishti Raai, Sinha’s brand offers a quirky collection of customizable press-on nails, catering to a diverse audience. By embracing creativity and personal expression, Soezi taps into a growing market, proving Sinha’s entrepreneurial spirit extends beyond her acting career.
Deepika Padukone: A skincare visionary
Deepika Padukone’s skincare brand, 82°E, launched in partnership with Jigar Shah, offers a wide range of products for both men and women. The brand recently raised $7.5 million in funding, underscoring its potential for growth in the beauty industry. Padukone’s commitment to quality and innovation positions her as a formidable player in the competitive skincare market.
Diversifying careers
The entrepreneurial journeys of these Bollywood celebrities demonstrate their versatility and determination to succeed beyond the film industry. By venturing into diverse sectors such as fashion, beauty, health, and wellness, they not only diversify their careers but also contribute significantly to the economy. Furthermore, their success stories inspire future generations to pursue their passions and explore various avenues, reinforcing the notion that stardom and entrepreneurship can coexist harmoniously. As these celebrities continue to thrive, they pave the way for others to follow in their footsteps, proving that with hard work and vision, anything is possible.
