Bollywood has always been a world of glamour, style, and strong screen personalities. Many fans grow up knowing actors only by their stage names, and often these names become bigger than the people themselves. But very few know that several leading actresses entered the industry with completely different identities.
While changing names is common across cinema cultures, the reasons behind it in Bollywood range from easier pronunciation, numerology, family issues, to simply creating a stronger screen presence. Recently, fans were surprised when the real names of many famous actresses resurfaced online.
Here is a detailed look at some of the most popular Bollywood actresses who changed their names and the reasons behind those decisions.
Katrina Kaif – Real Name: Katrina Turquotte
Katrina Kaif, one of Bollywood’s most admired stars, was originally known as Katrina Turquotte.
When she began her career in India, she adopted her father’s surname “Kaif” as it was simpler and sounded familiar to the Indian audience.
This move helped her connect better with the industry and viewers. Though people have questioned her family background in the past, Katrina has always chosen to stay away from controversies.
Mallika Sherawat – Real Name: Reema Lamba
Before becoming the bold and confident Mallika Sherawat, she was Reema Lamba.
Reports suggest that she changed her name after facing family issues when she decided to join films. Her father reportedly did not support her career choice.
Friends encouraged her to adopt the name “Mallika Sherawat” — a name that soon became iconic due to her bold roles and outspoken personality.
Bhumika Chawla – Real Name: Rachna Chawla
Bhumika Chawla, known for her memorable performance in Tere Naam, was born Rachna Chawla.
She stepped into films first in the South Indian industry and later moved to Bollywood.
She felt that “Bhumika” carried a unique charm and would help her build a stronger identity on screen, and the decision worked well for her career.
Tabu – Real Name: Tabassum Fatima Hashmi
Tabu is one of the most respected actresses in Indian cinema, known for her powerful roles in both commercial and art-house films.
Her original name, Tabassum Fatima Hashmi, was quite long, and she shortened it to Tabu for simplicity.
This short, catchy name not only suited her bold personality but also helped her stand out from the crowd.
Mandakini – Real Name: Yasmeen Joseph
Mandakini, who became a sensation after Ram Teri Ganga Maili, was originally Yasmeen Joseph.
She was discovered by Raj Kapoor, who felt that a new name would give her a fresh appeal on screen.
Thus, “Mandakini” was born — a name that became unforgettable despite her short film career.
Sridevi – Real Name: Shree Amma Yanger Ayyapan
Sridevi remains one of the most iconic actresses in Indian cinema.
Her real name, Shree Amma Yanger Ayyapan, was long and difficult to pronounce for audiences across India.
She chose to shorten it to “Sridevi,” a name that later became a brand in itself.
Even though her screen name changed, audiences always admired her talent and effortless charm.
Mahima Chaudhary – Real Name: Ritu Chaudhary
Mahima Chaudhary made a dream debut with Pardes.
She was originally named Ritu Chaudhary, but filmmaker Subhash Ghai, who believed strongly in numerology, suggested she adopt the name “Mahima.”
The change worked in her favour, and she rose to instant fame with her very first film.
Rekha – Real Name: Bhanurekha Ganesan
Rekha, one of Bollywood’s most graceful actresses, began her journey with the name Bhanurekha Ganesan.
As she stepped into the film industry, she shortened it to Rekha — a name that is now synonymous with beauty, elegance, and mystery.
Her transformation over the years has been extraordinary, proving that a name change is only a small part of a much bigger journey.
Reena Roy – Real Name: Saira Ali
Reena Roy’s life story is filled with personal challenges.
She was born as Saira Ali, but after her parents separated, her mother changed her name to Roopa Roy.
Later, when she entered films, her screen name was finalised as Reena Roy.
Her performances and strong screen presence soon made her one of the top actresses of her time.
Manyata Dutt – Real Name: Dilnawaz Shaikh
Manyata Dutt, now known widely as Sanjay Dutt’s wife, was originally named Dilnawaz Shaikh.
In her early film career, she used the screen name Sara Khan.
Director Prakash Jha later renamed her “Manyata” during the promotion of Gangajal.
After marrying Sanjay Dutt, she permanently adopted the name Manyata Dutt and stepped away from acting.
Conclusion
Bollywood is a place where identity plays a major role.
For many actresses, changing their names was not just a cosmetic decision — it was a strategic move to build a strong image, stand out in a competitive industry, and connect better with audiences.
While fans may be surprised to learn their real names, these stories also show how personal struggles, family situations, and professional aspirations shaped their identities.
At the end of the day, their talent and dedication made them stars, no matter what name they chose to carry.