10 Inspiring Stories Of Actors Turned Entrepreneurs

The world is witnessing a growing trend of actors stepping into the entrepreneurial arena and carving a niche for themselves. These actors have gone beyond their on-screen roles to create success stories by investing in diverse fields and building successful business ventures.

The likes of Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Ronit Roy have made a mark in the entertainment industry and expanded their investment portfolios by investing in various sectors. These successful entrepreneurs have successfully leveraged their fame and influence as Indian celebrities to create businesses worth millions today.

Let's look at some of the inspiring stories of actors turned successful Indian entrepreneurs who have managed to translate their on-screen triumphs into profitable businesses.

These are the 10 famous actors turned entrepreneurs

With a growing interest in business and a hunger for success, these ten actors have diversified their income streams by launching their own production houses, opening gyms, investing in startups, and much more. Let's dive in and get inspired by their stories.

1. Priyanka Chopra Jonas

This former Ms World has her eyes on global domination, and how! A few years into the industry, Priyanka Chopra founded her own production house Purple Pebble Pictures in 2015, which has gone on to produce acclaimed films like Paani and The Sky Is Pink. She also invested in and was key in bringing the dating app Bumble to India, and soon after in 2021 launched her hair care brand Anamoly Haircare which was recently reported to have been one of the highest-selling celebrity brands. The same year Priyanka Chopra also opened her new restaurant Sona in Manhattan, New York with a modern spin on Indian cuisine. 

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2. Rupali Ganguly

Rupali Ganguly, best known for her memorable roles in popular TV shows like Sarabhai vs Sarabhai and Baa Bahoo Aur Baby, has made a comeback on the small screen with the show Anupamaa after a hiatus of seven years. However, her entrepreneurial spirit has been soaring high for much longer than that. In 2000, Ganguly co-founded an advertising agency with her father that has since produced movies and commercials. While her acting career has garnered her immense fame, this television actress-cum-entrepreneur has also been equally successful in running her business venture. Her story is a reminder that a person can pursue multiple interests and excel in them with hard work, determination, and the right mindset.

3. Alia Bhatt

While you might know the actress best for her acting prowess in films like Highway and Gangubai Kathiawadi, Alia Bhatt also donned the entrepreneurial hat pretty early in 2014 when she designed her own line of clothing in collaboration with now-defunct online retailer Jabong. Her business choices are as varied as her roles, and the most striking one would have to be investing in India's first biomaterial startup called Phool.co. Big on sustainability, she also launched her own sustainable maternity and children's clothing brand called Ed-a-Mamma in 2022. 

4. Ronit Roy

Ronit Roy has established himself as a well-known Indian celebrity in television and film. However, the 57-year-old actor's success story doesn't end with his acting career. Roy has expanded his investment portfolio by venturing into entrepreneurship way long back. He runs a super successful security business called Ace Security and Protection, which provides security services to top Bollywood celebrities like Shah Rukh Khan, Amitabh Bachchan, Akshay Kumar, and many others. Roy's entrepreneurial journey is a testimony to his astute business sense and ability to explore new opportunities beyond his acting career. This successful Indian entrepreneur has proved that with hard work and determination, one can excel in diverse fields and create a successful business venture.

5. Sunil Shetty

He is an old player when it comes to entrepreneurship. Apart from films, he first started his luxury furniture and home lifestyle store called R House with his wife in 2013. The actor also owns Little Italy and Club H2O, in Mumbai. Not only that, but Sunil Shetty also is a co-owner of the water adventure park, H2O Sports. 

Having worked in multiple languages and formats, he dived into production, and his company Popcorn Motion Pictures has produced films like Bhagam Bhag and Rakht. In 2019, he also invested in an online health and fitness startup called Fittr. 

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6. Katrina Kaif

One of the most bankable stars at the box office, Katrina Kaif brought the same credibility to her business ventures when she launched Kay Beauty in 2019 with Nykaa. Her beauty line is a top seller, and the products are as good as they look. With its inclusive marketing and cruelty-free formulations, the brand quickly grabbed everyone's attention. The star has been featured in multiple prestigious publications for her much-awarded beauty line. 

7. Mohit Malik

Mohit Malik, a well-known television actor, has added the title of ‘restaurateur’ to his resume. Malik, who has entertained the audience with his roles in TV shows like Banoo Main Teri Dulhann, Kulfi Kumar Bajewala, and Doli Armaanon Ki, co-owns two flourishing restaurants in Mumbai with his wife, Aditi Shirwaikar Malik. The two restaurants, Homemade Cafe and 1BHK offer diverse cuisines and have gained a loyal following in the city. While Malik continues to excel in his acting career, the couple is making their mark in the hospitality industry with their successful restaurant ventures.

8. Aashka Goradia

Aashka Goradia, a well-known Indian television actress, has proven that her mettle is not just in acting but also as an entrepreneur. The 35-year-old model-turned-television actress, who became famous with popular television shows like Kkusum and Laagi Tujhse Lagan, now co-owns a thriving yoga studio in Goa with her husband, Brent Goble. The yoga studio, named ‘Aum Inside’, has been praised for its serene environment and the couple's expertise in yoga. In addition, this television actress-entrepreneur has also launched her line of beauty products called Renee Cosmetics, which offers a range of cruelty-free and vegan products. The company has attracted investments from various acclaimed investors. With her dedication and passion, Aashka has certainly made a mark as a successful Indian entrepreneur.

9. Rakshanda Khan

Besides being a famous TV actor, Rakshanda Khan is also a successful entrepreneur. The actress is the co-owner of an event design and production company that has hosted numerous high-profile events for clients, including celebrities. Khan's passion for event planning led her to co-found the company, and she has been actively involved in its growth and success. She brings her creativity, vision and attention to detail to every project, ensuring that each event is unique and unforgettable. Despite her busy schedule, the actress-entrepreneur continues to devote her time and energy to her business, which has become one of the industry's most sought-after event-planning companies.

10. Parul Gulati

Parul Gulati, a well-known actress from TV and film, appeared on the popular show Shark Tank India season 2 to showcase her business venture. Her business, called Nish Hair, specialises in hair extensions. The finale week of Shark Tank India 2 was lively and engaging, thanks to Parul's entertaining pitch. She is recognised for acting in Girls Hostel, Haq Se, Illegal – Justice, and other popular TV shows. The sharks were impressed by her innovative hair-extension brand, and Amit Jain offered her the amount of money she had asked for, which was ₹1 crore for 2% of equity. This boss-lady has inspired many women who dream of owning their businesses, and we can’t wait to see what the future holds for her!

In a world where the entertainment industry can be unpredictable, these actors have proven that they are not just one-trick ponies. From launching their production houses to starting successful businesses, they have taken risks and turned their passions into thriving entrepreneurial ventures. Their success stories are a testament to the fact that anything is possible with hard work, determination, and a bit of business acumen. It is inspiring to see how these actors-cum-successful-Indian-entrepreneurs have used their platform to not only entertain audiences but also create opportunities for themselves and others. Their journeys remind us there is no limit to what one can achieve with the right mindset and drive.

Are you feeling motivated? Discover the tales of women entrepreneurs in India and gain inspiration from their success stories. Don't forget to explore the journeys of self-made entrepreneurs that are sure to add fuel to your passion.