Top Tamil actresses who have made a mark in Kollywood with their versatile performances. From celebrated stars to rising talents, discover their notable films, achievements, and impact on cinema.
1. Trisha Krishnan
Trisha is a leading actress in Tamil cinema with a career spanning over two decades. Known for her elegance and versatility, she has delivered numerous blockbusters. Her performances in romantic and action films have earned her a massive fan following. She has also acted in Telugu and Hindi films, proving her versatility across industries.
Notable Films: 96, Kodi, Ponniyin Selvan I & II
2. Keerthy Suresh
Keerthy is a National Award-winning actress known for her natural acting and strong screen presence. She gained widespread recognition for her portrayal of legendary actress Savitri in Mahanati. With a mix of commercial and critically acclaimed films, she continues to impress audiences across Tamil, Telugu, and Malayalam cinema.
Notable Films: Mahanati, Dasara, Sarkar
3. Shruti Haasan
Actress-singer Shruti Haasan is known for her bold performances and musical talent. She has acted in multiple industries, showcasing her dynamic range. Apart from films, she is a trained musician and has performed in various concerts. She continues to experiment with diverse roles, proving her artistic depth.
Notable Films: 3, Vedalam, Puli
4. Sai Pallavi
A doctor-turned-actress, Sai Pallavi is known for her expressive acting and natural charm. She won hearts with her debut film Premam and continues to take on powerful roles. Apart from her acting skills, she is also a trained dancer and has showcased her talent in several films.
Notable Films: Maari 2, NGK, Gargi
5. Nayanthara
Populary known as the ‘Lady Superstar,’ Nayanthara has delivered numerous critically acclaimed and commercially successful films. She has played a variety of roles, from intense dramas to light-hearted comedies. Her strong screen presence and ability to carry a film on her shoulders make her one of Tamil cinema’s most celebrated actresses.
Notable Films: Aramm, Bigil, Raja Rani
6.Jyothika
Jyothika is an award-winning actress known for her powerful performances and strong female-centric roles. After taking a break from films, she made a successful comeback with women-oriented stories that resonated with audiences. Her ability to portray complex characters with depth has made her a favorite among moviegoers.
Notable Films: Mozhi, Kushi, 36 Vayadhinile
7. Lavanya Tripathi
Lavanya is a talented actress known for her charming presence and strong performances in Tamil and Telugu films. She started her career as a model before transitioning into films. Her effortless acting and captivating screen presence have won her numerous fans across the South Indian film industry.
Notable Films: Arjun Suravaram, A1 Express, Bhale Bhale Magadivoy
8.Krithi Shetty
A promising young actress, Krithi Shetty made an impactful debut and has quickly risen in Tamil cinema with her refreshing performances. With her youthful charm and natural acting, she has gained popularity among the younger audience. She continues to sign big projects, proving her potential in the industry.
Notable Films: Uppena, Shyam Singha Roy, The Warriorr
9. Shivani Narayanan
Shivani is a television actress and model who gained popularity with her stunning performances in Tamil TV serials and reality shows. She made a smooth transition to films and has impressed audiences with her screen presence. Her growing fan base eagerly awaits her next cinematic ventures.
Notable Serials: Rettai Roja, Kadaikutty Singham, Pandiyan Stories
10. Nithya Menen
An actress-singer, Nithya is celebrated for her impeccable acting skills and strong character portrayals in Tamil films. She has a natural screen presence and excels in portraying emotionally deep characters. Apart from acting, she is an accomplished playback singer and has lent her voice to various songs.
Notable Films: O Kadhal Kanmani, Mersal, 24
11. Priya Bhavani Shankar
A software engineer-turned-actress, Priya gained fame for her work in Tamil cinema and television. She started as a news presenter before venturing into films. Her ability to bring grace and authenticity to her characters has helped her carve a niche in the industry.
Notable Films: Monster, Oh Manapenne, Mafia Chapter 1
12. Varalaxmi Sarathkumar
Known for playing intense and impactful roles, Varalaxmi has earned critical acclaim for her performances. She is recognized for taking on strong, unconventional roles that challenge stereotypes. Her ability to portray negative and grey-shaded characters makes her stand out among her peers.
Notable Films: Sarkar, Maari 2, Vikram Vedha
13. Nivetha Pethuraj
A former beauty pageant contestant, Nivetha made a successful transition to Tamil films with her effortless acting. She has starred in both commercial and experimental films, proving her range as an actress. Her ability to emote naturally has made her a sought-after talent in the industry.
Notable Films: Tik Tik Tik, Thimiru Pudichavan, Chitralahari
14. Regina Cassandra
Regina is a stunning actress who has balanced mainstream and offbeat Tamil cinema with ease. She has acted in various regional industries, showcasing her versatility. Her elegant screen presence and ability to portray complex characters make her a valuable asset to the industry.
Notable Films: Managaram, Evaru, Kedi Billa Killadi Ranga
15. Aathmika
Aathmika is a rising actress known for her girl-next-door charm and strong performances. She gained popularity with her debut film and has since worked on notable projects. Her ability to portray relatable and endearing characters has earned her a dedicated fan following.
Notable Films: Meesaya Murukku, Naragasooran, Kuruthi Aattam
16. Ishwarya Menon
A talented actress, Ishwarya has won fans with her captivating performances in Tamil films. She has a vibrant screen presence and has worked in various genres, from romance to thrillers. Her commitment to her roles has made her a promising talent in the industry.
Notable Films: Veera, Tamil Rockerz, Vezham
17. Anjali
Anjali has been part of several Tamil, Telugu, and Kannada films, known for her intense portrayals. She gained recognition for her ability to bring realism to her characters. With a knack for emotional and layered performances, she continues to impress audiences and critics alike.
Notable Films:Angadi Theru, Iraivi, Geethanjali
18. Priyanka Mohan
Priyanka Mohan is a promising actress known for her natural performances and charming screen presence. She has worked in both Tamil and Telugu films, gaining popularity among young audiences. Her acting skills and versatility make her a rising star.
Notable Films: Doctor, Don, Sreekaram
19. Amritha Aiyer
A rising actress known for her dynamic screen presence, Amritha has impressed audiences with her performances in Tamil films. She continues to gain popularity with each project she takes on. Notable Films:Bigil, Lift, Red
20. Sneha
A celebrated actress in Tamil and Malayalam cinema, Sneha is known for her grace, expressive performances, and ability to portray both soft and strong characters. With her impactful roles in Pudhupettai, Autograph, and Unnai Ninaithu, she has established herself as a leading actress admired for her versatility and elegance.
Notable Films: Pudhupettai, Autograph, Unnai Ninaithu
21. Hansika Motwani
Hansika transitioned from television to Tamil films, becoming a beloved star known for her lively screen presence. With commercial hits like Oru Kal Oru Kannadi, Aranmanai, and Engeyum Kadhal, she continues to be a sought-after actress, excelling in romantic comedies and horror films.
Notable Films: Oru Kal Oru Kannadi, Aranmanai, Engeyum Kadhal
22. Eesha Rebba
Eesha Rebba has gained recognition in Tamil and Telugu cinema with her striking looks and expressive performances. With films like Awe, Bandipotu, and Oyee, she has proved her versatility, taking on both commercial and content-driven projects, making her a promising talent.
Notable Films: Awe, Bandipotu, Oyee
23. Aishwarya Rajesh
Aishwarya Rajesh is celebrated for her realistic and hard-hitting performances in Tamil cinema. She has redefined female-led roles with her work in Ka Pae Ranasingam, portraying strong, independent women with depth and authenticity.
Notable Films: Kanaa, Vada Chennai, Ka Pae Ranasingam
24. Samantha Ruth Prabhu
Samantha is one of the most successful and versatile actresses in Tamil and Telugu cinema. From commercial entertainers like Theri to experimental films like Eega and Kaathuvaakula Rendu Kaadhal, she has balanced glamour and substance, consistently delivering powerful performances.
Notable Films: Theri, Eega, Kaathuvaakula Rendu Kaadhal
25. Madonna Sebastian
Madonna Sebastian has impressed audiences with her charm and expressive acting. She gained popularity with Kadhalum Kadandhu Pogum, followed by compelling performances in Junga and Kavan. Her natural screen presence makes her a standout performer in Tamil cinema.
Notable Films: Kadhalum Kadandhu Pogum, Junga, Kavan
26. Parvathy Thiruvothu
A critically acclaimed actress, Parvathy is known for her bold and unconventional choices in Tamil cinema. With intense performances in Poo, Maryan, and Uyare, she has established herself as one of the most respected and powerful performers in contemporary Indian cinema.
Notable Films: Poo, Maryan, Uyare
27. Meera Jasmine
A National Award-winning actress, Meera Jasmine is known for her emotive and impactful performances. With memorable roles in Sandakozhi, Run, and Bala, she has portrayed deep and complex characters, making her one of the most respected actresses in Tamil cinema.
Notable Films: Sandakozhi, Run, Bala
28. Kalyani Priyadarshan
The daughter of director Priyadarshan, Kalyani has made a name for herself with her impressive performances. She has been praised for her roles in Hero, Maanaadu, and Varane Avashyamund, balancing commercial appeal with strong acting skills.
Notable Films: Hero, Maanaadu, Varane Avashyamund
29. Ritika Singh
A former national-level boxer, Ritika Singh made an impactful debut with Irudhi Suttru, winning praise for her raw and powerful performance. She continued to impress in Shivalingaand Aandavan Kattalai, bringing energy and authenticity to her roles.
Notable Films: Irudhi Suttru, Shivalinga, Aandavan Kattalai
30. Manjima Mohan
Manjima Mohan made a successful transition from Malayalam to Tamil cinema with her breakthrough role in Achcham Yenbadhu Madamaiyada. She has since showcased her talent in FIR and Devarattam, winning audiences with her girl-next-door charm and acting skills.
Notable Films: Achcham Yenbadhu Madamaiyada, FIR, Devarattam
31. Vedhika Kumar
Vedhika Kumar is admired for her elegant performances and exceptional dance skills. She has delivered memorable roles in Paradesi, Kaviya Thalaivan, and Muni 4, proving her versatility in both period dramas and commercial films.
Notable Films: Paradesi, Kaviya Thalaivan, Muni 4