Tollywood, as it is commonly called, or the Bengali film industry, is flourishing in 2025, with a combination of veteran legends and youthful newcomers. Historically, Bengali cinema had an arthouse aesthetic, impressive acting, and cultural substance. Over the years, actresses in this industry have even crossed the borders of West Bengal and gained notoriety in the rest of India and the world. As of 2025, we see that several actresses are at the forefront of modern Bengali cinema, as they are achieving commercial success as well as critical acclaim. Also included is a list of lead Bengali film actresses who are making news this year.
1. Koel Mallick
Koel Mallick is a favorite in the Bengali film industry. Over the course of two decades that she has been in the game, she is still very much active in films, TV, and OTT. In 2025, Koel is set to win over audiences again with her versatile talent, as she will be in romances, family films, and thrillers. What is also amazing is that her connection with the audience, which cuts across generations, has made her a name that is known to all in West Bengal.
2. Subhashree Ganguly
In 2025, Subhashree Ganguly, who is known as the “queen of Tollywood,” is still at the top of her game. From successful commercial to critically acclaimed films, she had a great run, which she now follows up with a choice of scripts that feature strong female characters. Also an inspiration to many for her ability to balance act and motherhood, which she does very well. Subhashree has also managed to dominate the box office and is praised by critics for her mature performances.
3. Rukmini Maitra
Rukmini Maitra has set out to prove herself as a modern icon of Bengali cinema. Known for her grace and powerful screen presence, which leaves a lasting impression on the audience, she has done very well in both glamorous and performance-based roles. By 2025, Rukmini will be not only a star in mainstream Bengali films but also have her hand in national productions. While her pairings with actor Dev have been very successful, Rukmini also does very well in solo projects, which in turn play up her acting range.
4. Mimi Chakraborty
Mimi Chakraborty is at the same time an actor and a Member of Parliament. Though caught up in politics, she has at the same time been very much present in Bengali films. In 2025, Mimi is in a variety of roles, which range from contemporary romances to social issue-based dramas. What she brings to the table is a mix of glamour and substance, which makes her the most respected actress of her time.
5. Nusrat Jahan
Nusrat Jahan is also a leading actress who is very much in the public eye. Known for her energetic personality and stylish stage presence, which draws in large audiences, she has had many box office hits. In 2025, Nusrat will also be in the commercial films, but at the same time will be trying out digital platforms. Also, outside the film industry, she has become a trend setter in fashion and lifestyle, which makes her a very popular figure.
6. Paoli Dam
Paoli is known for her daring choices and strong performances. Unlike many other actors, she tends to go after parallel cinema and content-based projects. In 2025, it is still the case that Paoli is celebrated for the depth she brings to each of her roles. Her work in both the Bengali and Hindi film industries has made her a pan-Indian artist. With her interest in meaningful cinema, she continues to inspire young actors.
7. Sohini Sarkar
Sohini Sarkar is known for her natural talent and dedication to in-depth storytelling. In 2025, she is at it on the big screen as well as the OTT space, which she does very well in terms of bringing to life complex characters. Her roles, which are very much rooted in reality, are what critics love, which in turn endears her to directors in the realistic cinema space.
8. Madhumita Sarkar
Madhulika Sarkar, who is out of television and into films, has seen great success in Bengali cinema. By 2025, she also had a series of hits to her name, which proves her mettle in different genres. Also, it is her youth and the emotion she puts across which has made her a hit with the youth.
Conclusion
In 2025, Bengali cinema is at a crossroads; we see the likes of Koel Mallick and Subhashree Ganguly still at the top of their games at the same time as new talents like Madhumita Sarcar and Ishaa Saha, who are redefining what the industry will be. This mix of the old and the new, which is what keeps Tollywood dynamic, diverse, and at the artful top of its game. Also on the screen and as ambassadors of that culture, Bengali film actresses are doing exceptionally well in putting the rich culture of Bengal out to the nation and the world.
