Simran

Simran, born Rishibala Naval on April 4, 1976, in Mumbai, Maharashtra, is one of Tamil cinema’s most popular leading ladies of the late 1990s and 2000s. She began her career in modelling before transitioning to acting.

Simran made her acting debut in the Hindi film “Sanam Harjai” (1995) before finding immense success in South Indian cinema. She became a household name in Tamil Nadu through her pairing with Rajinikanth in “Padayappa” (1999) and with Ajith in “Vaali” (1999) and “Dheena” (2001). Her other major Tamil hits include “Vaanathaippola” (2000), “Once More” (1997), “Priyamaanavale” (2000), and “Pammal K. Sambandam” (2002).

Simran was equally successful in Telugu cinema, starring alongside leading actors. She won the Filmfare Award for Best Actress - Tamil for her performance in “Kannathil Muthamittal” (2002), directed by Mani Ratnam. After a break from acting, she made a successful comeback with “Silambattam” (2008) and later appeared in notable films like “VIP 2” (2017). She has won multiple Filmfare Awards and Tamil Nadu State Film Awards, establishing herself as one of the most decorated actresses of her generation.