Mumbai: Indian actresses are increasingly stepping beyond the spotlight to shape stories from the very foundation. No longer limited to performing roles written for them, many leading women are now steering creative decisions as producers—championing bold narratives, regional voices, and unconventional genres. This shift marks a powerful evolution in Indian cinema, where actresses are emerging as architects of change behind the camera.
Here’s a look at actresses who are making a decisive impact as producers.
Anushka Sharma
Anushka Sharma entered the production space with Clean Slate Filmz, a banner that quickly became synonymous with risk-taking storytelling. Her projects—NH10, Phillauri, Pari, and Bulbbul—stand out for their fearless exploration of complex themes such as trauma, folklore, identity, and female agency. With a genre-blending approach that spans thrillers, fantasy, and dark drama, Anushka has consistently backed content-driven cinema.
Priyanka Chopra Jonas
With Purple Pebble Pictures, Priyanka Chopra Jonas expanded the definition of mainstream Indian storytelling. Her production choices reflect a strong commitment to multilingual and culturally rooted narratives. Films like The Sky Is Pink, Ventilator, and Pahuna: The Little Visitors highlight intimate human stories while bridging languages and regions, positioning her as a producer with a truly global outlook.
Deepika Padukone
Deepika Padukone’s KA Productions focuses on meaningful, socially relevant cinema. Chhapaak brought a sensitive real-life story to the forefront, while 83 celebrated a landmark moment in Indian sports history. She further diversified her producer profile with Gehraiyaan, a contemporary relationship drama that sparked conversation for its emotional complexity.
Lakshmi Manchu
A versatile force across industries, Lakshmi Manchu has used Manchu Entertainment Films to support both Indian and international projects. Her productions include Gundello Godari, which received critical acclaim and international festival recognition, and the National Award-winning Chandamama Kathalu. She has also ventured into global storytelling with the short film Mrs. Manoj Kumar, reflecting her cross-cultural creative ambitions.
Samantha Ruth Prabhu
Samantha Ruth Prabhu launched Tralala Moving Pictures with a focus on entertaining yet distinctive cinema. Her production Oh! Baby struck a chord with audiences, blending fantasy and comedy with emotional depth. She has also backed thrillers and genre-bending projects like U Turn and Subham, reinforcing her reputation for smart, audience-forward storytelling.
Keerthy Suresh
Keerthy Suresh stepped into production with Blue Moon Pictures, beginning with the Malayalam courtroom drama Vaashi. She continued her producing journey with Revolver Rita, a crime comedy that reflects her interest in unconventional narratives and character-driven scripts.
These actresses are no longer just faces on screen—they are decision-makers shaping the future of Indian cinema. By investing in diverse stories and new voices, they are redefining power, authorship, and creativity in an industry long dominated by conventional structures.
