Bollywood female
She was one of the first leading actresses from a legendary film family to break tradition and enter the Hindi film industry at a young age, despite initial criticism and industry skepticism. Throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, she redefined commercial success for female actors, becoming a household name known for her versatility, grace, and powerful screen presence. Often recognized for her expressive eyes and dance performances, she garnered critical acclaim as well as mass popularity, eventually winning both a National Award and multiple Filmfare Awards. Elder to another hugely successful actress of her generation, who is this star known for balancing glamour with substance in an era dominated by male-led films?
Karishma Kapoor
He emerged as a phenomenon in Indian cinema during the late 1960s and early 1970s, captivating audiences with his charming smile, distinctive dialogue delivery, and romantic persona. Often referred to as the first true "superstar" of Hindi cinema, his unprecedented fan following included people writing him letters in blood and gathering in massive crowds wherever he went. At the peak of his career, he delivered an unbroken string of box office hits, a record that stood unchallenged for decades. Known for bringing a new wave of charisma and vulnerability to the male lead role, who is this legendary actor whose reign changed the landscape of Indian stardom?
Rajesh Khanna.
In the formative years following the political integration of a former colonial enclave into the Indian Union, this leader emerged as a dominant figure, championing the cause of social justice and regional identity. Hailing from a non-Brahmin background, he used his position to uplift marginalized communities, particularly through land reforms and educational initiatives. As the first elected head of government in this region, he strongly advocated for its merger with a neighboring linguistic state—a proposal ultimately rejected by a landmark opinion poll, which he nevertheless respected. Who is this influential political figure remembered as a pioneer of democratic leadership in Goa's post-Portuguese political history?
Bhausaheb Bandodkar
Debuting on the international stage as a teenager against one of the most fearsome bowling attacks of the era, he quickly became a symbol of hope for a nation in transition. Over the course of more than two decades, his career came to embody consistency, humility, and an almost mythical pursuit of excellence. Often referred to by titles evoking divinity and mastery—though never self-proclaimed—he was the first cricketer to achieve several statistical milestones that were once thought unreachable. Despite the weight of a billion expectations, he remained largely apolitical and private, letting his bat script a narrative of resilience and grace. Who is this sporting legend whose legacy transcends the boundaries of the cricket field?
Sachin tendulkar
In this year, a major change in Indian politics took place as the Right to Information Act was passed, marking a significant step toward transparency and accountability. In Maharashtra, unprecedented rains caused floods that paralyzed Mumbai, sparking nationwide discussions on urban infrastructure. Meanwhile, in Bollywood, a romantic drama featuring a new pairing of Saif Ali Khan and Rani Mukerji became a huge hit, and a film exploring the struggles of young men from small towns took everyone by surprise. It was also the year when Abhishek Bachchan began gaining serious critical attention for his performances. Which year is being described?
2005
Belonging to a family deeply entrenched in Indian classical and film music, she initially spent years in the shadow of a more celebrated elder. However, through sheer adaptability and an uncanny ability to reinvent herself across genres and generations—from cabaret to ghazals, folk to pop—she carved out a parallel legacy that is both prolific and pathbreaking. Often the voice behind the more experimental or unconventional songs of her era, she collaborated with composers across borders and decades, breaking linguistic and stylistic boundaries. With a career spanning over seven decades, she holds a world record for the most studio recordings, and her influence extends far beyond playback singing. Who is this versatile artist whose name is often mentioned in discussions of both rivalry and reverence?
Asha Bhosale
In the early 1970s, as the image of the romantic hero dominated Indian cinema, a towering figure emerged—literally and metaphorically—who shifted the cinematic landscape with a persona that embodied angst, rebellion, and gravitas. Born to a renowned Hindi poet and initially rejected by radio for having an unconventional voice, he eventually transformed that very voice into one of the most iconic in the country. Despite a string of initial flops, his breakout came through a narrative where his character’s silence and simmering rage captured the frustration of an entire generation. Often collaborating with a famous screenwriting duo, his roles mirrored the socio-economic churn of the time. He would go on to reinvent himself across decades—as a host, businessman, and elder statesman of the screen. Who is this multifaceted performer whose career arc reflects the evolution of Indian popular culture itself?
Amitabh Bacchan
Thrust unexpectedly into the political spotlight following a national tragedy, this individual transitioned from a career in aviation to the highest executive office in the country. His tenure marked a shift toward modernization, as he sought to promote technological advancement, streamline bureaucracy, and appeal to a rapidly growing youth demographic. Often described as a reluctant politician turned reformer, he oversaw both landmark initiatives in telecom and education as well as controversial decisions that sparked debates on secularism and regional autonomy. His legacy remains complex, shaped equally by his vision for a 21st-century India and the turbulent challenges of the late 1980s. Who is this leader whose political journey was both brief and transformative?
Rajiv Gandhi
Ascending the throne as a minor, his early reign was shaped by regency and military consolidation, but it was his later policies that marked a radical departure from the conventional imperial norms of the subcontinent. Deeply curious and unbound by dogma, he initiated theological dialogues across faiths, patronized a new syncretic administrative ethos, and restructured governance through innovative systems that balanced central authority with local autonomy. Though illiterate, he cultivated one of the richest courts in terms of literature, art, and intellectual discourse. His legacy is as much about conquest as it is about co-existence. Who is this ruler whose vision laid the ideological foundation for a diverse and durable empire?
Akbar
In this year, Indian politics saw the rise of regional power as the BSP and SP began asserting themselves more forcefully in Uttar Pradesh, signaling shifting dynamics in caste-based mobilization. The Congress was in power at the Centre under a Prime Minister known for his soft-spoken leadership style, while coalition politics continued to shape the national discourse. Meanwhile, in Bollywood, a film that redefined romance for an entire generation released and went on to become one of the longest-running movies in Indian cinematic history. It was also the year when Govinda and Karisma Kapoor ruled the box office with their unbeatable comic timing and dance numbers. Which year are we talking about?
1995
Making her debut at a young age in a regional film, this performer went on to become one of the most iconic faces of Hindi cinema, celebrated not just for her beauty but also for her grace, discipline, and multifaceted talent. Trained in classical dance, she often brought a rare blend of elegance and power to the screen, earning her a unique space among her contemporaries. What many don’t know is that she was once rejected in an early audition for not being “star material”—a verdict she would go on to shatter with a career that spanned decades in film, television, and public service. Who is this trailblazing artist and cultural icon who came to be affectionately known as the “DG” of Indian cinema?
Hema malini
Known for his meticulous approach to his craft, this actor began his journey as a child artist before making a breakthrough in mainstream cinema in the late 1980s. Over the decades, he came to be associated not just with commercial success but with a rare brand of intellectual engagement with his roles, often choosing scripts that tackled complex social themes or broke cinematic norms. He famously began releasing only one film a year, turning each release into a major event. Also known for his behind-the-scenes roles as a director and producer, he played a pivotal part in reshaping Indian cinema’s global perception in the 21st century. In addition to his film work, he hosted a widely discussed TV show addressing social issues, further solidifying his image as a socially conscious artist. Who is this perfectionist whose name is almost synonymous with reinvention and thoughtful cinema?
Aamir Khan
Hailing from a modest background, this political figure rose steadily through the ranks of his party’s state unit before being entrusted with leadership during a sensitive transition period after the passing of a widely respected predecessor. Known for his low-key yet steady governance style, he became the second individual from his party to hold the office of Chief Minister in his state. Interestingly, before taking on the top executive role, he also served as the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly—placing him among the rare few to have held both constitutional posts in the same state. Who is this current political leader steering a coastal state known for its cultural diversity and strategic significance?
Pramod Saawant
Rooted in ancient philosophical traditions, this practice originated as a disciplined path toward spiritual liberation, encompassing ethical principles, breath control, sensory withdrawal, and meditative absorption—not merely physical postures as popularly perceived today. Over millennia, it evolved through various schools of thought, from ascetic movements to metaphysical treatises, eventually gaining global popularity in the 20th century through reinterpretation and commercialization. Despite its modern rebranding as a wellness trend, its classical roots are embedded in the quest for union—between body and mind, self and ultimate reality. What is this enduring tradition that straddles the line between physical culture and spiritual philosophy?
YOGA
This year, India hosted a global sporting event that brought the capital city under the international spotlight—though it was nearly overshadowed by controversies around infrastructure delays and corruption allegations. In the legal sphere, a historic court verdict in a long-running religious dispute was delivered, attempting to divide land among three parties and sparking nationwide debate. Meanwhile, a Tamil superstar’s sci-fi blockbuster redefined visual effects in Indian cinema, and a small-budget film about a rustic wedding singer became a surprise critical darling. Which year is being described?
2010
This multifaceted personality first entered the public eye as the warm and eloquent co-host of a hugely popular cultural magazine show on national television during the early ’90s — a time when such programming was a staple of Sunday mornings. She soon became known for her composed and caring roles in family dramas on the big screen. Ironically, one such emotional role later found a second life as a meme, thanks to a melodramatic stair-fall scene that still circulates across social media with humorous captions. Years later, she made a powerful comeback — not as an actor, but as a director, with a film that delved into mental health and generational healing. Who is this enduring figure in Indian entertainment?
Renuka shahane
Hailing from a rural background and initially working at a drilling company, this actor entered the film industry after winning a talent contest, eventually becoming one of the most enduring stars in Indian cinema. Known for his rugged charm and versatility, he seamlessly transitioned between intense action roles and light-hearted comic performances, often portraying the ideal blend of strength and sensitivity. While widely celebrated for his on-screen persona, few know that he was once voted among the most handsome men in the world by an international magazine in the 1970s—long before such recognitions became common for Indian actors. Who is this iconic star who earned the nickname “He-Man of Bollywood” and remains a beloved figure across generations?
Dharmendra
This individual, born into a family that straddled both cinema and Parliament, has lived a life marked by immense public scrutiny, personal tragedy, and political ambition. While he first rose to fame in the entertainment world, his foray into politics came during a turbulent period when his image was undergoing transformation. Nominated as a candidate from a major political party, his candidacy was eventually withdrawn due to legal complications. Despite this, he continued to maintain public and political visibility, especially in Uttar Pradesh, where he was appointed a star campaigner and even served briefly as a general secretary in the party. Who is this controversial yet enduring public figure?
Sanjay Dutt
In the early 1990s, this individual became a household name—not through cinema or politics, but by engineering a financial operation so audacious that it exposed deep cracks in the country's banking and securities systems. Rising from modest beginnings to driving luxury cars and living in a sea-facing penthouse, he projected the image of a self-made financial wizard who had "cracked" the stock market. His manipulation of the banking system’s ready forward deals led to a meteoric rise in stock prices, particularly of certain companies he was associated with—until investigative journalism blew the lid off his empire. Interestingly, he once famously claimed to have directly handed over a suitcase of cash to a sitting Prime Minister, though this allegation was never proven. Who is this controversial figure whose life came to symbolize both the ambition and fragility of India’s early liberalization era?
Harshad mehta
This year marked a significant moment in India's internal political geography, as a long-standing linguistic agitation finally led to the bifurcation of a large western state into two separate entities, each named after the dominant language spoken in the region. On the cinematic front, it was a golden age where black-and-white films began making a confident shift toward color, and legendary playback singers were cementing their dominance. One romantic musical released this year is still remembered for its timeless songs and a tragic love triangle that captivated audiences. Which year saw both major political restructuring and a milestone in classic Indian cinema?
1960
This individual, who initially trained in fashion design, made a striking entry into Bollywood with a film that went on to become one of the highest-grossing debuts of the decade. Known for her confidence and powerful screen presence, she often portrayed strong, small-town characters in mass entertainers. Interestingly, her journey into films came after being spotted by a major superstar who believed she had star potential. Off screen, she’s been vocal about body positivity and breaking stereotypes. She also happens to be the daughter of a legendary actor who once famously said, “Khamosh!” in more ways than one. Who is she?
Sonakshi Sinha
Before making his on-screen debut, this actor studied business abroad and worked as an assistant director under one of Bollywood’s most acclaimed filmmakers. Despite being the son of a successful director, he carved his own path by consistently delivering commercial hits and showing surprising range—from slapstick comedy to intense drama. Often associated with high-energy performances and strong youth appeal, he also holds the rare distinction of delivering 11 consecutive box office successes at the start of his career—a feat few in the industry have matched. Who is this contemporary Bollywood star known for his mass appeal, work ethic, and off-screen humility?
Varun Dhawan
This veteran Indian politician started his career with a dramatic break from the Congress, becoming the youngest Chief Minister of his state in the late 1970s. Over decades, he earned a reputation as a master strategist, holding key positions including Defence and Agriculture Minister at the Centre. Known for his calm demeanour and sharp political instincts, he founded a regional party that has often been crucial in both state and national coalition formations. Beyond politics, he also made his mark in the world of cricket administration, having once served as the President of the BCCI during a period of major changes in Indian cricket governance. Who is this influential leader?
Sharad powar
Emerging in Europe in the late 18th century as a reaction against the often aggressive medical practices of the time, this system of medicine is founded on the principle that a substance causing symptoms in a healthy individual can, in highly diluted form, treat similar symptoms in a sick person. Often dismissed by the mainstream scientific community for lacking empirical evidence, it nonetheless gained a massive following across continents, especially in regions with colonial histories, where it was seen as a gentler and more personalized approach to healing. Its remedies are typically derived from plant, mineral, or animal sources and are prepared through repeated dilution and succussion. What is this controversial yet enduring system of alternative medicine?
Homeopathy
In this year, Indian politics witnessed a dramatic landslide as a regional party swept 67 out of 70 seats in a state assembly election, reshaping political dynamics in the national capital. Meanwhile, a real-life story of a man from Bihar who carved a road through a mountain with his bare hands was brought to the big screen, moving audiences with its tale of determination. Another gripping film about a middle-class father covering up a crime to protect his family sparked debate about justice and morality. In the tech world, digital wallets gained mainstream momentum, and the government formally launched a mission to promote startups and entrepreneurship. Which year are we talking about?
2015