On Ekta Kapoor’s birthday, revisit the remarkable careers she helped shape across television, films and digital entertainment. From Vidya Balan and Sushant Singh Rajput to Mouni Roy and Rajkummar Rao, many of India’s biggest talents found crucial opportunities under her guidance.
M Snehanjali
June 07, 2026 / 16:51 IST
Over the years, Ekta Kapoor has consistently provided aspiring actors, performers, creators and storytellers with platforms that transformed their careers.
- Ekta Kapoor launched many actors’ careers in Indian entertainment
- Her shows launched stars like Vidya Balan, Sushant Rajput
- Kapoor is known for spotting and nurturing fresh talent
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For more than two decades, Ekta Kapoor has remained one of the most influential forces in Indian entertainment. While her contribution to revolutionizing Indian television and building a formidable entertainment empire is widely acknowledged, another defining aspect of her legacy is her ability to identify talent long before it becomes mainstream.
Over the years, Ekta Kapoor has consistently provided aspiring actors, performers, creators and storytellers with platforms that transformed their careers. Her instinct for spotting potential and her willingness to invest in fresh faces have helped shape some of the industry’s most celebrated success stories. As she celebrates another milestone, here is a look at some of the artists whose professional journeys were significantly impacted by her vision and support.
Before becoming one of the most respected and well-acclaimed actresses in Indian cinema, Vidya Balan initially rose to fame through the famous television show Hum Paanch produced by Ekta Kapoor. This was a major milestone in the actor’s illustrious career that played a key role in redefining the narrative of women in Bollywood movies.
There are few TV debutants whose entry into the film industry made as much impact as Sushant Singh Rajput’s debut in the form of Manav on Ekta Kapoor’s show Pavitra Rishta. The actor rose to fame on the basis of his performances on the show, which went on to provide him great success in the films.
Rajkummar Rao, whose talent was recognized by Ekta Kapoor at a time when he was just making a place for himself in the film industry, is today considered one of the finest actors from Bollywood.
The career trajectory of Mouni Roy was highly influenced by the TV world created by Ekta Kapoor. After gaining fame through several hits on the small screen, she shot to instant fame with the highly successful Naagin saga. The huge popularity of the drama not only enhanced her stature but also provided her with a stepping stone into films.
This actress made her mark in the entertainment industry owing to Ekta Kapoor’s Meri Aashiqui Tum Se Hi. The natural talent displayed by her won many accolades and also paved the way for her entry into films. The actor has managed to win critical acclaim with her excellent performances.
With his career experiencing a complete turnaround on account of Ekta Kapoor’s highly popular shows, Ronit Roy carved out a niche for himself as one of the best actors to grace the small screen. Roles in TV dramas like Kasautii Zindagii Kay and Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi contributed to his success in both films and digital media.
When Smriti Irani stepped into the role of Tulsi Virani in Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi, she became one of the most recognizable faces in Indian households. The character evolved into a cultural phenomenon and remains one of the most iconic roles in Indian television history. The show’s success cemented her place in popular culture and made her a household name.
Prachi Desai rose to prominence with her lead role in Ekta Kapoor’s highly successful television drama Kasamh Se. The show’s popularity earned her widespread recognition and admiration from viewers. The success eventually helped her make a seamless transition from television to Bollywood.
Throughout her television career, Anita Hassanandani delivered several memorable performances in Ekta Kapoor’s productions. Shows such as Kabhii Sautan Kabhii Sahelii, Kavyanjali and Kasautii Zindagii Kay played an important role in establishing her as one of television’s most beloved and dependable actresses. Her long-standing association with Kapoor’s creative universe remains one of the most successful collaborations in Indian television.
Before making his name known as one of the more unique filmmakers from India, Anurag Basu has already invested quite some time in television and in working alongside Ekta Kapoor during the early stages of his career. The experience and knowledge he gained from that stage of his life played an essential role in his success as a director for films.
A Legacy Built on the Ability to Spot Talent
While the contribution of Ekta Kapoor to Indian entertainment is not limited only to ratings, blockbuster movies, and innovative productions, one aspect of her career that stands out is her knack for spotting potential in young artists.
M Snehanjali is a Sub Editor and journalist with over two years of experience covering general news and entertainment in digital newsroom.
first published: Jun 7, 2026 03:20 pm
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