5 Movies that make Anushka Sharma, a bankable Actress

As Aarfa, the State Champion in Womens Wrestling, Anushka was an embodiment of empowerment, grit and determination. Not only did she get the technique of wrestling right, she also made a standout impression in a film that was largely riding on the mass appeal of its lead hero, Salman Khan.

With 'NH10', Sharma forayed into production, a step which was dissed by industry insiders because they felt it was too early for an actress to take a risk as this at the peak of her career. But Sharma joined forces with her brother Karnesh who created her banner, 'Clean Slate Productions', Phantom Films and Eros International to give us an edge-of-the-seat thriller. Starring in the lead role herself, Anushka was unapologetic and ruthless as she tackles the shaky subject of honour killings in her maiden production.

The movie was an absolute bore but Anushkas act was like a breath of fresh air. Essaying the role of documentary-filmmaker, Akira, Sharma was likeable in every frame. She picked up her first Filmfare Award for Best Supporting Actress in the Shah Rukh Khan and Katrina Kaif starrer.

Her third movie finally catapulted her status into the same frame as Deepika Padukone. As Shruti Kakkar, Anushka was feisty and uncompromising and she suitably complimented the then newcomer, Ranveer Singh. Infact their chemistry was loved and applauded by the audience that they became an ideal on-screen pair.

She could have easily been unnoticed in her debut vehicle had she been overshadowed by the presence of her superstar co-star Shah Rukh Khan. But Sharmas sincere and earnest portrayal of Taani Sahni gave the impression to critics and the audience, that a bundle of talent is waiting to explode. Funnily, all the Best Debut Awards of that year went to Asin for Ghajini. Isnt that ironical enough?

Today Anushka Sharma is also a successful producer besides being one helluva bundle of beauty and brains. She has been very selective about the movies she performs in. A typical Taurean, she speaks her mind and yet, is earnest in her professional and personal commitments. On the actress' 33rd birthday, we list five of her finest performances in movies so far.