Bollywood Actors who Changed their Name Before Entering the Industry
Some of Bollywood's biggest stars began their journey with a different name before making their mark in the industry. Whether influenced by numerology or a desire to stand out, these iconic actors embraced new identities before their debut films.
While some chose to drop their surnames, others completely reinvented their names to make their entry into the film world.
Let’s take a look at a few of them!
Akshay Kumar
After a brief role in his first film Aaj (1987), this star changed his name from Rajiv Hari Om Bhatia to the iconic Akshay Kumar. 
Image Source: IMDB
Ajay Devgn
Born Vishal Veer Devgn, Ajay Devgn changed his name to avoid confusion with other actors named Vishal who were making their debut around the same time. 
Image Source: IMDB
Kiara Advani
Bollywood actress Kiara Advani changed her name from Alia to Kiara before her debut in 2014, as Alia Bhatt was already a well-established name in the industry. 
Image Source: IMDB
Tiger Shroff
Tiger Shroff was originally named Jai Hemant Shroff and went by the nickname "Tiger." However, when he decided to enter Bollywood, his nickname transformed into his stage name. 
Shilpa Shetty Kundra
On the advice of an astrologer, Shilpa Shetty Kundra changed her name from Ashwini Shetty to enhance her career prospects as an actress and model.
Image Source: IMDB
Recent Posts
Bollywood is never short of drama, glamour, and excitement, and each week brings fresh stories that keep fans hooked. From movie updates to celeb buzz and red-carpet moments, here’s your roundup of all that went down in B-town this week.
Not many can boast eight-pack abs in their 50s, but Shah Rukh Khan did just that for his role in Pathaan. His sculpted and muscular look isn’t new—it’s the result of years of consistent training.
The IIFA green carpet has seen it all—classic elegance, daring trends, and stunning style evolutions.
From Pancakes to Power Moves: How Kiara Nailed Her War 2 Look
Dabangg – 15-Year Throwback
Here’s your quick Bollywood weekly round-up! From glamorous celeb appearances to exciting movie updates and viral social media moments, here are the biggest highlights from the world of entertainment this week.
From timeless classics to modern romances, these iconic duos have won hearts across generations.
Baaghi 4 brings back Tiger Shroff in full action mode, joined by Sonam Bajwa, Sanjay Dutt, and Harnaaz Sandhu.
From sizzling dance numbers to hilarious hosting, Bollywood’s best duos light up the night with their unbeatable chemistry and charm
On his birthday, we look back not just at his incredible work but at the unwavering spirit that brought him here.
Ranveer Singh isn’t here to follow fashion rules — he makes his own.
The most expensive outfits worn by Bollywood actors in movies
Most stylish and iconic bags owned by Indian actresses.
Bollywood movies based on real life stories
Newsmaker - 31st August 2025
Top 5 Bollywood Love Stories That Broke Barriers
Reviews for Param Sundari are here!
5 Maddock entertainers that left us in awe
Films That Celebrate Ganpati in the Best Way
Madhur Bhandarkar Movies Everyone Should Watch
Different looks of Salman Khan over the years
Newsmaker - 24th August
Top 5 Bollywood Movies That Perfectly Show Unrequited Love
Not Your Typical Bollywood Drama: What to Expect from ‘The Ba***ds of Bollywood’
Dialogues That Became Part of Pop Culture
5 Randeep Hooda Movies Everyone Must Watch
5 Bollywood Movies Inspired by Mythology
5 Red Chillies Entertainers That Left Us in Awe
Newsmaker - 17th August
Lesser known facts about Saif Ali Khan
Top 6 Bollywood Stars Who Nailed Patriotic Role
Reviews for War 2 are here!
Aug 14th: 50 Years of Thalaivar: The Unstoppable Force of Indian Cinema
Iconic Sridevi Movies
Celebrating Sara Ali Khan with her Adorable Shayari
Celebrating 25 Years of Dhadkan
Newsmakers - 10th August
Real life Bollywood siblings
Bollywood Actors Who Did Theatre Before Making It Big!
