KKN Gurugram Desk | Anushka Sharma, one of Bollywood’s most talented and successful actresses, celebrates her birthday on May 1, 2025. With a career spanning 17 years, she has made a significant impact in the Indian film industry. Anushka has appeared in nearly 20 films, with several roles that were unique and out of the box. Known for her versatile acting, she has built a legacy that few actresses have achieved in such a short time. Apart from her illustrious career, Anushka’s personal life, including her marriage to cricketer Virat Kohli and her journey as a mother, adds another layer to her appeal. In this article, we will explore Anushka Sharma’s career trajectory, key milestones, and insights into her personal life.

1. Anushka Sharma’s Early Life and Career Beginnings

Anushka Sharma’s Roots and Educational Background

Anushka Sharma was born on May 1, 1988, in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh. She hails from a military family, with her father, Colonel Ajay Kumar Sharma, serving in the Indian Army, and her mother, Ashima Sharma, being a homemaker. Due to her father’s profession, Anushka moved across various army cantonments during her childhood, attending different army schools across India.

Anushka completed her graduation from Bengaluru, where she initially considered pursuing a career in journalism or modeling. Her life, however, took an unexpected turn towards Bollywood, a field she had never initially envisioned herself in. It was through an unexpected encounter that Anushka made her way into the world of modeling, which later paved the way for her entry into films.

Early Interests: Modeling Over Journalism

Before entering Bollywood, Anushka had aspirations of becoming a journalist, but her destiny led her to modeling. While shopping at a mall, she was spotted by a renowned fashion designer, who soon offered her a chance to walk the ramp. Her natural confidence and grace quickly set her apart in the fashion industry, where she made a significant mark in a short time. Despite her growing success in modeling, acting was never a part of her original plans.

2. Entry into Bollywood: Breakthrough with Yash Raj Films

Anushka’s Debut: ‘Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi’

Anushka Sharma’s film career began when she was offered a role in the Yash Raj Films production, Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi, opposite Shah Rukh Khan. Interestingly, during the film’s casting, renowned filmmaker Karan Johar had advised Aditya Chopra, the producer, to refrain from casting an unknown actress. This revelation came years later from Karan Johar, who admitted to being proud of Anushka’s success, especially considering how she proved everyone wrong with her remarkable career.

Anushka’s performance in Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi was widely appreciated, marking her arrival as a new and refreshing talent in the industry. After her debut, she continued to work with Yash Raj Films, starring in several hit movies like Band Baaja Baaraat, Ladies vs Ricky Bahl, Badmaash Company, and Jab Tak Hai Jaan. These films not only cemented her position as a successful actress but also showcased her acting versatility.

3. Success with the Khans: Collaborations with Bollywood’s Biggest Stars

Anushka Sharma’s Iconic Films with Aamir Khan, Shah Rukh Khan, and Salman Khan

Anushka Sharma made history as one of the few actresses to work with all three of Bollywood’s biggest stars, commonly referred to as the “Khans.” Her filmography includes PK with Aamir Khan, Jab Tak Hai Jaan and Zero with Shah Rukh Khan, and Sultan with Salman Khan.

These collaborations with the Khans proved to be monumental for Anushka’s career, placing her in the same league as some of the most established names in the industry. Her role in PK, where she starred alongside Aamir Khan, earned her critical acclaim, and her portrayal of a confident and assertive character was a key highlight of the film. Similarly, her role in Sultan with Salman Khan showcased her as a strong, independent woman, which resonated with audiences and further elevated her status as a leading actress in Bollywood.

4. Anushka Sharma as a Producer: Woman-Centric Films and Unique Roles

Anushka Sharma’s Shift to Film Production

As Anushka Sharma’s acting career flourished, she took her journey to the next level by stepping into film production. In 2015, she produced and starred in NH10, a film that marked a departure from the typical Bollywood genre, as it dealt with social issues and featured Anushka in a strong, bold role. The film was both a critical and commercial success, establishing her as a producer to watch.

Following NH10, Anushka continued to make a mark in the film industry by producing other successful woman-centric films, including Phillauri, Pari, and Bulbbul. These films, which focused on women’s issues, emotional struggles, and empowerment, were well-received and reflected Anushka’s dedication to telling meaningful stories through her production company. As a producer, she not only aimed to create impactful films but also showcased the depth and strength of female characters in her projects.

5. Personal Life: Anushka Sharma and Virat Kohli

Marriage to Virat Kohli: A Power Couple in the Limelight

Anushka Sharma’s personal life gained immense media attention when she married Indian cricketer Virat Kohli in December 2017. Their love story began when they met during an advertisement shoot, and their bond quickly grew, leading to one of the most talked-about celebrity weddings in recent years.

The couple’s relationship has been a subject of fascination for fans and the media alike. In January 2021, Anushka gave birth to their daughter, Vamika, and in February 2024, they welcomed their son, Akay. Despite her growing family commitments, Anushka continues to maintain a balance between her personal life and professional endeavors, though she has taken a step back from acting in recent times to focus on raising her children.

6. Anushka Sharma’s Net Worth and Professional Achievements

Anushka Sharma’s Financial Success and Recognition

Anushka Sharma has not only established herself as a prominent actress but also as a successful businesswoman. As of 2025, her estimated net worth stands at approximately ₹255 crore, as per several media reports. Her income comes from her acting career, her production company, and brand endorsements.

Anushka’s success in the film industry has been acknowledged globally. She was featured on the Forbes list of the highest-paid actresses in 2018, further cementing her position as one of the most influential figures in the entertainment industry. In addition to her film-related income, Anushka has a number of lucrative brand endorsements with top national and international brands, which further contribute to her financial success.

7. Legacy and Impact on Bollywood

Anushka Sharma’s Contribution to Indian Cinema

Anushka Sharma’s contribution to Indian cinema extends beyond her roles in front of the camera. As a producer, she has actively supported and promoted stories that focus on societal issues and women’s empowerment. Her films have not only entertained but also sparked important conversations about gender roles, women’s struggles, and societal challenges in India.

Anushka’s ability to choose diverse roles, whether it’s a traditional romantic lead or a fierce, independent woman, has set her apart from many other actresses. Her commitment to portraying strong and dynamic female characters has made her one of the most respected names in Bollywood.

Anushka Sharma’s journey from a small-town girl to one of the most successful actresses and producers in Bollywood is nothing short of inspiring. With a career full of both commercial successes and critically acclaimed performances, Anushka has proven her versatility and commitment to her craft. Her personal life, including her marriage to Virat Kohli and her role as a mother, adds an additional layer of relatability and admiration from fans around the world.