Entertainment

The Titans of Bhojpuri Cinema: 10 Most Famous Actors and Actresses

Bhojpuri cinema, popularly known as Bhojiwood, has gained immense popularity over the years with its vibrant storytelling, energetic music, and mass appeal. The industry boasts some of the most influential actors and actresses who have captivated audiences with their performances. These stars not only dominate the regional market but also enjoy a strong fan base in countries with a significant Bhojpuri-speaking population, such as Nepal, Mauritius, and Fiji. Hashtag Magazine gives you a list of the top 10 most famous Bhojpuri actors and actresses, their career highlights, hit films, and their earnings per project.

1. Dinesh Lal Yadav (Nirahua)
Earnings: ₹40-50 lakh per film

Dinesh Lal Yadav, better known as Nirahua, is one of the most celebrated actors in Bhojpuri cinema. Before entering films, he was a successful Bhojpuri singer. His breakthrough came with Nirahua Rikshawala (2008), which made him an overnight star. Some of his blockbuster movies include Nirahua Hindustani, Border, and Patna Se Pakistan. He has also dabbled in politics and participated in Bigg Boss 6.

2. Khesari Lal Yadav

Earnings: ₹35-45 lakh per film

Khesari Lal Yadav, originally a folk singer, gained immense popularity with Saajan Chale Sasural (2011). Over the years, he has delivered superhit films like Mehndi Laga Ke Rakhna, Dulhin Ganga Paar Ke, and Coolie No. 1. His powerful performances, dancing skills, and melodious voice have made him a favorite among Bhojpuri audiences.

3. Ravi Kishan
Earnings: ₹40-60 lakh per film

A veteran actor who has successfully transitioned into mainstream Bollywood and South Indian films, Ravi Kishan is a pioneering figure in Bhojpuri cinema. His early films like Ganga Jaisan Mai Hamar and Banke Bihari MLA made him a household name. He has also appeared in Bigg Boss 1 and several Hindi films. Now an active politician, Ravi Kishan continues to be an iconic presence in Bhojpuri cinema.

4. Pawan Singh
Earnings: ₹30-50 lakh per film

Known for his dynamic performances and exceptional singing skills, Pawan Singh gained nationwide recognition with his superhit song Lollipop Lagelu. His notable films include Sher Singh, Satya, and Crack Fighter. His mass appeal has made him one of the most sought-after actors in the Bhojpuri industry.

5. Pradeep Pandey (Chintu)
Earnings: ₹25-35 lakh per film

The son of Bhojpuri filmmaker Rajkumar R. Pandey, Pradeep Pandey, popularly known as Chintu, made his debut with Deewana (2009). His youthful charm and acting skills have made him a favorite among younger audiences. He has starred in films like Jeena Teri Gali Mein and Mai Re Mai.

6. Amrapali Dubey

Earnings:₹20-30 lakh per film

Amrapali Dubey is one of the top actresses in Bhojpuri cinema today. She initially worked in television before making her film debut with Nirahua Hindustani (2014). Since then, she has worked in numerous blockbusters, often pairing with Nirahua. Her excellent screen presence and acting skills have cemented her position as a leading Bhojpuri actress.

7. Kajal Raghwani

Earnings:₹15-25 lakh per film

Kajal Raghwani is another leading actress in Bhojpuri films. She started her career with Sugna (2011) and has since acted in hits like Patna Se Pakistan and Dabang Sarkar. Her versatility and ability to perform in different genres make her one of the most sought-after actresses.

8. Monalisa (Antara Biswas)

Earnings:₹10-20 lakh per film

Monalisa, originally known as Antara Biswas, gained popularity in Bhojpuri cinema before venturing into Hindi television with Bigg Boss 10 and daily soaps. She has acted in films like Jai Sriram, Saiyan Ji Dilwa Mangelein, and Dulhan Chahi Pakistan Se.

9. Rani Chatterjee

Earnings:₹10-20 lakh per film

Rani Chatterjee is one of the longest-reigning actresses in Bhojpuri cinema. She debuted with Sasura Bada Paisawala (2004) alongside Ravi Kishan and has been a dominant force in the industry ever since. Some of her hit films include Devra Bada Satawela and Dulaara.

10. Akshara Singh

Earnings:₹15-25 lakh per film

Akshara Singh has worked with almost every major Bhojpuri actor and has made a mark with films like Satyamev Jayate and Dabang Aashiq. Her ability to play diverse roles has made her one of the most talented actresses in the Bhojpuri industry.

Earnings per Film

The leading Bhojpuri stars command impressive fees per project, reflecting their popularity and box office pull:

Dinesh Lal Yadav (Nirahua): ₹40-50 lakh per film
Khesari Lal Yadav: ₹35-45 lakh per film
Ravi Kishan: ₹40-60 lakh per film
Pawan Singh: ₹30-50 lakh per film
Pradeep Pandey (Chintu): ₹25-35 lakh per film
Amrapali Dubey: ₹20-30 lakh per film
Kajal Raghwani: ₹15-25 lakh per film
Monalisa (Antara Biswas): ₹10-20 lakh per film
Rani Chatterjee: ₹10-20 lakh per film
Akshara Singh: ₹15-25 lakh per film

The Bhojpuri film industry continues to grow, thanks to these talented actors and actresses who bring life to its stories. Their immense fan following, both in India and abroad, ensures that Bhojpuri cinema remains a significant part of regional entertainment. As the industry evolves, these stars will continue to shape its future, bringing more success and recognition to Bhojiwood.

March 7, 2025

actors, Actresses, Bhojpuri, Bhojpuri film industry

Movies to Watch This August 2025

August 2025 brings a power-packed lineup of films from explosive action thrillers to heartwarming romances and long-awaited sequels. With big names, bigger budgets, and stories that promise to entertain, here’s your guide to what’s hitting the screens this month. Dhadak 2 Cast: Tripti Dimri, Siddhant Chaturvedi Director: Shazia Iqbal A socially charged romance and spiritual sequel to Dhadak (2018), this remake of Tamil cult classic Pariyerum Perumal explores caste, identity, and institutional inequality through the intense love story of law students Vidhi and Neelesh. Kingdom Cast: Vijay Deverakonda (as Suri), Satyadev, Bhagyashri BorseDirector: Gowtam Tinnanuri Kingdom is a highly anticipated pan‑India spy action drama directed by Gowtam Tinnanuri. Featuring Vijay Deverakonda in a rugged cop role, supported by Satyadev and Bhagyashri Borse, the film promises intense action and emotional depth. Originally delayed several times due to national events, it is now scheduled for a global theatrical release. War 2 Cast: Hrithik Roshan, NTR Jr., Kiara AdvaniDirector: Ayan Mukerji The next chapter in YRF’s Spy Universe, War 2, brings together two powerhouses Hrithik and NTR Jr.in a high-stakes, globe-trotting action thriller. Expect mind-blowing stunts, slick storytelling, and intense rivalries. Coolie Cast: Rajinikanth (as Deva), Nagarjuna, Upendra, Soubin Shahir, Sathyaraj, Shruti Haasan, cameo by Aamir KhanDirector: Lokesh Kanagaraj An explosive pan‑India action drama, Coolie sees Rajinikanth return in a high‑voltage gangster saga directed by celebrated filmmaker Lokesh Kanagaraj. Supported by a powerhouse ensemble including Nagarjuna as the antagonist and a surprise cameo from Aamir Khan, the film explores themes of crime, betrayal, and ambition. Shot across locations in Chennai, Jaipur, Hyderabad, and Bangkok, the production wrapped in March 2025. Slated for a global theatrical release on August 14, 2025, the film marks a major highlight of Rajinikanth’s 50‑year cinematic legacy and is expected to spawn impressive pre‑sales figures overseas. Son of Sardaar

Entertainment

Siddhant Chaturvedi Opens Up on Breaking into Bollywood

Siddhant Chaturvedi’s story isn’t your typical industry launchpad tale. From his small-town roots in Ballia to his breakthrough in Gully Boy, he’s carved a space for himself with grit, versatility, and quiet confidence. Ahead of the release of Dhadak 2, the actor opens up about the pressures of fame, resisting typecasting, struggling with self-styling, and how his parents’ unwavering support helped him through it all. In conversation with LIPIKA VARMA, Siddhant talks about his journey, and more. Excerpts- Do you feel pressure ahead of Dhadak 2’s release? Yes, there is pressure with every film’s release, whether it is a sequel or an independent film. But there’s more pressure with a sequel; it is not that you have to match the earlier one. There is always a desire to show something new, to show it differently, to tell a new story, because the ultimate goal is that people are entertained, and if they like something in it, they will like the film. Have you consciously chosen varied roles to avoid typecasting? Well, the work I do and at this point in time of my career, if I understand the story and I feel that this story has connected with me, then I do it. There is a conscious effort somewhere that you don’t have to do the same; you have to act in different characters, you have to present yourself in different ways, because this is the time for me. Mistakes can happen, but now I am sure I will not typecast roles. I always think that if you do one kind of thing, then that becomes your market. After doing a variety of roles, you reach a point, I have done it all, now what more? Do you believe in building a ‘market’ for yourself? I always have a goal

Entertainment

I Feel This is the Best Year of My Career- R Madhavan

R. Madhavan is back in the spotlight with Aap Jaisa Koi, a heartwarming family drama that explores love, loneliness, and rediscovery in life’s quieter chapters. As Shrirenu Tripathi a quiet, 42-year-old man who unexpectedly rediscovers love and himself Madhavan delivers one of his most layered performances yet. Directed by Vivek Soni and co-starring Fatima Sana Shaikh, the film explores emotional vulnerability, second chances, and the beauty of finding “Barabari Wala Pyaar.” In a candid chat with LIPIKA VARMA, Madhavan opens up about the film, love, ageing, and his evolving journey as an actor. Excerpts- What drew you to Aap Jaisa Koi, and what was it like playing Shrirenu? Aap Jaisa Koi is unlike any love story I’ve done before; it’s quiet, awkward, and deeply human. Shrirenu is one of the most complex characters I’ve played, someone who longs for companionship and closeness, but doesn’t quite know how to ask for it, yet he is rich with emotion underneath. This film isn’t loud or dramatic it’s patient, gentle, and deeply affecting. I was drawn to how it speaks to all the people who’ve felt overlooked in life or love. The film is a reminder that it’s never too late to start living on your own terms. It’s a story about vulnerability, rediscovery, and the idea that it’s never too late to open your heart. How has your view on romance changed over the years? Back in our day, we didn’t have apps or access to this kind of dating culture. Whatever ways romance happened was considered just okay. [hamare zamane mein choice nahi tha jo sahi tha romance mein bhi sahi mana jata hai] We didn’t have the mode to access dating apps. Therefore, if we wanted to meet a person in the city, it was difficult to meet as that

Entertainment

Tripti Dimri on Dhadak 2, Inter-Caste Love, and Negative Roles

Tripti Dimri made her debut as a leading lady in Laila Majnu (2018) and received critical acclaim for her work in Anvita Dutt’s Bulbbul (2020) and Qala (2022). She rose to fame with her scene-stealing role in the blockbuster Animal (2023) and is now one of the most talked-about names in the industry. With Dhadak 2 on the way and her recent casting in Spirit, a role that was initially set for Deepika Padukone, Tripti is clearly on a career high. In conversation with LIPIKA VARMA, Tripti talks about her upcoming films, social change through cinema, and her desire to play complex, layered roles. Tripti Simri answers a volley of questions while promoting Dhadak 2. Excerpts: How do you feel about starring in Dhadak 2? Does doing a sequel bring added pressure? I think, if you don’t take that pressure, but perform with full honesty and trust in your director and your team, that’s when magic happens. And I think that’s what Siddhanth and I and everybody else did on this project. So, we made sure not to take any pressure and just take each day as it comes. What were your inputs to the character in terms of improvisation, intensity, and spontaneity? It was a collaborative work. Every day was different. We would rehearse the scenes and then just play off each other. Siddhant has been a wonderful actor. There were a lot of scenes that were based on his reaction, even though you didn’t plan it that way. Because acting is all about reacting. The way you interact with someone day to day, naturally, your expressions come out to the best of your abilities. So, that is what happened. I think I was lucky to have good actors in this film. Everybody is just brilliant. I am happy