Anushka Sharma is riding a crest of appreciation from film critics and adulation from movie buffs with Sultan. But that's just part of her stupendous success story. Be it leading men or women amongst current actors, Anushka is the only actor of her generation to have two of the topmost grossers in the history of Hindi cinema. In just two weeks' time, Sultan has grossed 280 crores, with audiences still queuing up across India to watch the film, once or repeatedly. What's more, in both films, Anushka's role is both significant and applauded.

PK! which made over 600 crores across the world featured her as the feisty Jagat Janani, a role model for young girls. In the film, her character is pivotal to finding the story's resolution and stands by values of independent thinking and life choices. Similarly, in Sultan, which has made over 300 crores in the span of just two weeks, Anushka played a significant role in a larger than life Salman Khan film. Here, as Aarfa, she makes empowered choices and lives life on her own terms, despite hailing from a rural background.


That Anushka's work speaks the loudest, making her the top choice for filmmakers who shape Hindi cinema and for films that resonate with audiences for generations, is testament to her choice of placing work above all else. During the course of her career, she has chosen to keep the focus on her acting and cinematic achievements, beyond personal life and easy publicity gimmicks. Her restraint in her public behavior and her straightforward persona connect with young women across India making her a youth icon worth aspiring to. Which is why, when she is cast in powerful, strong roles like her parts in Sultan and PK!, she makes a lasting impact and pulls in audiences.

With Sultan steadily holding strong with box office collections and audiences coming in for repeat viewing, Aarfa's journey might scale new heights. What this proves beyond doubt, is that based on sheer talent, focus and hard work, Anushka Sharma is the numero uno leading lady of the current crop.