Bollywood actresses who slayed in action roles

New Delhi: The days are gone when Bollywood action was all about the heroes. Today, our leading ladies are stepping into the ring, picking up guns, and chasing down bad guys like total pros. From Priyanka Chopra boxing it out in Mary Kom to Deepika Padukone firing bullets in Pathaan, these actresses are proving they are just as fierce, fearless, and fun to watch in action-packed roles. And honestly, we’re loving it.

1. Priyanka Chopra in Mary Kom

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In Mary Kom (2014), Priyanka Chopra stepped into the boxing ring, quite literally. Playing the fierce and determined Mary Kom, Priyanka trained for months to get the punches, stamina, and fighter’s spirit just right. From tough action scenes to emotionally charged moments, she made us all feel every win, loss, and struggle. It remains one of her most powerful and inspiring performances to date.

2. Taapsee Pannu in Naam Shabana

In Naam Shabana (2017), Taapsee Pannu took on a bold, action-packed role as Shabana, a young woman recruited by a secret intelligence agency. Known for her fierce combat scenes and gritty stunts, Taapsee trained in mixed martial arts for the film. She brought raw intensity and strength to the character, making it one of her standout action performances.

3. Katrina Kaif in Phantom

In Phantom (2015), Katrina Kaif showed a tougher, no-nonsense side as Nawaz Mistry, an undercover agent on a deadly mission. Swapping her usual glam roles for gritty action, she pulled off chase scenes, gunfights, and intense stunts with ease. It was a refreshing change to see Katrina in action mode, and she owned it.

4. Deepika Padukone in Pathaan

In Pathaan (2023), Deepika Padukone traded glam for guns as Rubai, an undercover agent with serious action moves. Whether it was high-speed chases, hand-to-hand combat, or intense shootouts, Deepika looked fierce and absolutely in control. It was exciting to watch her match Shah Rukh Khan punch for punch, proving she’s just as badass in action as she is in drama.

5. Sonakshi Sinha in Akira

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In Akira (2016), Sonakshi Sinha packed a serious punch as a fearless college girl caught in a web of crime and corruption. Ditching the damsel act, she took on goons with gritty action scenes and raw fight sequences. It was refreshing to see Sonakshi in full action mode, and she carried the tough, no-nonsense vibe like a pro.

(This story is curated by Sanika Kapoor.)