For over three decades, India’s strongest producer brand Ekta Kapoor has not only transformed Indian television but has also introduced a remarkable lineup of actresses who went on to become some of the industry’s most recognisable faces. Whether through iconic daily soaps or youth dramas, Balaji Telefilms became the launchpad for talents who later conquered television, films, OTT platforms, and reality shows. Here’s a look at seven actresses whose careers took off with Ekta Kapoor and who carved their own place in the entertainment industry.
- Vidya Balan – Hum Paanch (1995)
Long before becoming one of Bollywood’s finest performers, Vidya Balan made her acting debut with Hum Paanch in 1995. Although she later faced several setbacks before entering films, the sitcom gave audiences their first glimpse of her natural acting talent. Vidya went on to redefine female-led cinema with acclaimed performances in films like The Dirty Picture, Kahaani, Tumhari Sulu, Mission Mangal, and Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, earning multiple awards along the way. - Prachi Desai – Kasamh Se (2006)
Prachi Desai became an overnight sensation after making her television debut as Bani Walia in Kasamh Se (2006). Her popularity on the show opened doors to Bollywood, where she impressed audiences with films like Rock On!!, Once Upon a Time in Mumbaai, Bol Bachchan, and several web projects. - Anita Hassanandani – Kabhi Sautan Kabhi Saheli (2001)
While Anita Hassanandani had appeared in a few projects earlier, it was Ekta Kapoor’s Kabhi Sautan Kabhi Saheli (2001) that established her as a leading television actress. She later became one of Balaji’s most trusted stars with memorable roles in Kkavyanjali, Yeh Hai Mohabbatein, and Naagin 3. - Surveen Chawla – Kahiin To Hoga (2003)
Surveen Chawla entered the television world with Kahiin To Hoga in 2003, where she quickly gained recognition. She later reinvented herself through Punjabi and Hindi films before earning widespread acclaim on OTT with shows like Sacred Games and Decoupled. - Mouni Roy – Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi (2006)
Mouni Roy made her television debut in Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi in 2006. Although Naagin turned her into a television superstar years later, her first break came under Ekta Kapoor’s banner. Today, Mouni has established herself across television, Bollywood, music videos, and reality shows, with notable films including Gold and Brahmāstra: Part One – Shiva. - Ankita Lokhande – Pavitra Rishta (2009)
Few television debuts have been as impactful as Ankita Lokhande in Pavitra Rishta (2009). Her portrayal of Archana made her one of Indian television’s biggest stars. She later ventured into films with Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi and Baaghi 3, while also becoming a popular face on reality television. - Nia Sharma – Kaali – Ek Agnipariksha (2010)
Nia Sharma began her acting journey with Ekta Kapoor’s Kaali – Ek Agnipariksha in 2010. She soon found massive success with shows like Ek Hazaaron Mein Meri Behna Hai, Jamai Raja, and later Naagin 4. Nia also emerged as one of television’s most glamorous personalities, winning reality shows and building a strong digital presence.
From launching future National Award winners to creating television’s biggest superstars, Ekta Kapoor has consistently demonstrated an eye for discovering talent. These actresses may have started their journeys under the Balaji banner, but each went on to build an impressive career across television, films, and OTT, proving that Ekta’s biggest legacy extends far beyond the shows she created.
