Indian Actresses Who Embraced the De-Glam Look to Bring Authenticity to Their Roles.

In Bollywood, where glamour is often the norm, a few actresses are challenging the status quo by embracing raw, de-glam roles to bring greater authenticity to their characters. With minimal makeup and simple wardrobes, these actresses prove that true beauty lies in the art of storytelling.

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan’s Transformation in Sarbjit

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan stunned audiences with her portrayal of Dalbir Kaur, the sister of Sarabjit Singh, in Sarbjit (2016). She traded her glamorous look for disheveled hair and aged makeup, bringing raw emotion and vulnerability to the role. Her powerful performance showcased her acting range and commitment to realism.

Alia Bhatt in Udta Punjab: A Gritty Performance

Alia Bhatt’s role as a Bihari migrant in Udta Punjab (2016) was a stark departure from her usual glamorous roles. Sporting tattered clothes and unkempt hair, Alia portrayed the struggles of drug abuse and human trafficking. Her raw, unfiltered performance earned her critical acclaim.

Nikita Dutta Brings History to Life in The Walking of Nation

In The Walking of Nation, Nikita Dutta plays freedom fighter Punam Singh Aulakh. Embracing a no-makeup look and simple clothing, she focuses on delivering an authentic portrayal of her character, avoiding the usual polished glamour for a grounded, realistic performance.

Anushka Sharma’s Simple Elegance in Sui Dhaaga

Anushka Sharma’s role in Sui Dhaaga (2018) saw her transform into Mamta, a small-town housewife. With a simple saree, tied-back hair, and no makeup, Anushka’s portrayal of an ordinary woman’s struggle brought authenticity to the character, highlighting her versatility.

Taapsee Pannu’s Fearless Role in Saand Ki Aankh

Taapsee Pannu took on a challenging role as Prakashi Tomar, an older sharpshooter, in Saand Ki Aankh (2019). Through prosthetics and a rural dialect, Taapsee convincingly portrayed the struggles of an older woman, demonstrating her fearless commitment to authentic storytelling.

Embracing Realism in Bollywood

These actresses are reshaping the portrayal of women in Bollywood by choosing roles that emphasize authenticity over glamour. Their de-glam transformations show that true beauty lies in vulnerability, strength, and emotional depth, paving the way for more grounded, realistic storytelling in Indian cinema.