As if the dramatic storylines, choreographed dance routines, and vastly improved special effects aren’t reason enough to add Bollywood films into your usual mix of weekend entertainment, there’s a secret weapon to watch out for: The stunning beauties of India that put a number of American starlets to shame.
Whether it’s the curvy bodies with just the right amount of padding, the impeccable hair and makeup (there’s no such thing as shabby chic in Bollywood), or the total absence of Botox, something about Bollywood beauties can’t be resisted.
If you’re not up to speed on your B-Wood flicks, here’s a cheat sheet on the hottest actresses to get you there. The vast majority of B-Town films are around three hours, but you’ll be itching for more once you get a glimpse of the celebrity caliber on the other side of the globe.
Whether it’s a legal drama or a light comedy, the genre doesn’t matter much with this kind of eye candy.
1. Priyanka Chopra
Like many Indian celebrities, Chopra started out as Miss India (and then Miss World), but has displayed her acting chops again and again in recent years. The former model has 10 years of filmmaking under her belt and can be seen in recent classics like Anjaana Anjaani.
2. Neha Dhupia
Another beauty queen, Dhupia earned the title of Miss India in 2002 and has gone on to moonlight as a model while she continues to dominate Bollywood. Perhaps best known for her swimsuit shoots, she epitomizes the curvy woman and serves as a reminder that there can be such a thing as too little body fat on a woman.
3. Bipasha Basu
Considered by many to be the most gorgeous of all Indian actresses, Basu began her career as a model and won an Indian Supermodel contest before going into acting. She’s also top ranked on a number of Internet hot lists and is one of the most in-demand actresses. Unlike some of her counterparts, her acting abilities are right on par with her modeling skills.
4. Koena Mitra
A trained dancer with 12 years of professional work under her belt, it’s no surprise that Mitra has made it big in an industry that demands insane dance skills. Plus, Mitra isn’t as modest as many actresses and has no qualms about showing off her stunning body in more risqué shoots. She’s more toned than many other actresses thanks to her dance background, which provides a dose of diversity in Bollywood.
5. Mallika Sherawat
Sherawat has a different background from many of her colleagues. She put herself through university by working as an “air hostess” and received her undergraduate degree in Indian Philosophy but was always tempted by the appeal of Bollywood. Her fans adore that she’s equal parts beauty and brains, which has made her a very popular actress.
A little something for the ladies…
The men in B-Town are just as good looking as the women, and there’s truly something for every woman’s taste. Barun Sobti epitomizes the jacked-up gym body appeal that’s very popular, while Shahid Kapoor embodies the baby-faced bad boy who’s irresistible.
No matter which flick you start with, you’re sure to find some drool-worthy celeb who will make his or her way to the top of your dream date list.
