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Manoj Bajpayee To Randeep Hooda: 5 Self-Made Actors Who Made It In Bollywood Without Industry Ties
In a film industry often shaped by dynastic privilege, a few actors have carved paths purely through resilience and talent. Without family backing or influential mentors, these five performers broke through the noise with grit and consistent hard work. Their stories serve as testaments to the idea that merit still matters in Bollywood.Hailing from Bihar, Manoj Bajpayee’s journey began with multiple rejections from the National School of Drama. He eventually made a mark in theatre, leading to a game-changing role in Satya (1998) as Bhiku Mhatre. Known for acclaimed work in Aligarh, The Family Man, and Gangs of Wasseypur, Bajpayee continues to be a powerful force in performance-driven cinema.Inspired by Bajpayee, Rajkummar Rao pursued acting at FTII after completing his education. He started with indie films like Love Sex Aur Dhokha and Ragini MMS, gaining critical acclaim with Kai Po Che!. With a diverse range of roles, he’s now one of the most reliable actors in Indian cinema.
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