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Bollywood celebs’ shocking before-fame jobs

TOI Entertainment Desk
| ETimes.in | Last updated on - Apr 18, 2025, 08:00 IST
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1/9

Bipasha Basu

Before she became a Bollywood bombshell, Bipasha Basu worked as a telemarketer in Delhi. She has spoken about how she started out doing small jobs before being discovered by a model scout. Bipasha was initially focused on modeling, but it wasn’t long before she transitioned to Bollywood and became one of the most successful actresses in the industry.

2/9

Hrithik Roshan

Before Hrithik Roshan became a heartthrob in Bollywood, he started his career behind the scenes. Hrithik worked as an assistant director on films like Karan Arjun and Koyla, which were directed by his father, Rakesh Roshan. He was initially interested in filmmaking, but his career took a major turn when he made his acting debut in Kaho Na Pyaar Hai, which made him an overnight sensation.

3/9

John Abraham

John Abraham had a career in the corporate world before entering Bollywood. He worked as a media planner and also held a job at a marketing firm. But his true passion lay in acting and modeling, and after making his debut in Jism, John moved on to become one of Bollywood’s top stars, known for his acting and physique.

4/9

Rajinikanth

Before becoming a superstar and a household name in the Tamil film industry, Rajinikanth worked as a bus conductor in Bangalore. He had a keen interest in acting and joined the Madras Film Institute, where he trained in acting. His journey from being a bus conductor to becoming one of the most revered actors in Indian cinema is truly inspiring.

5/9

Shah Rukh Khan

Before becoming the King of Bollywood, Shah Rukh Khan had a modest beginning. He worked as a waiter in Delhi's well-known restaurant "Mithaiwala" to earn some pocket money. He also dabbled in theatre and had small roles in TV serials, but it was his breakthrough role in Deewana that catapulted him to fame. His story is a true testament to how hard work and perseverance can transform one's life.

6/9

Sushant Singh Rajput

Sushant Singh Rajput was a talented dancer before he became an actor. He was a part of Shiamak Davar's dance troupe and performed at various events, including the 2006 Commonwealth Games. Sushant's passion for dance is what initially brought him into the entertainment world, and he transitioned to acting with TV shows before hitting the big screen with Kai Po Che!.

7/9

Priyanka Chopra

efore becoming a global icon, Priyanka Chopra had a very different career trajectory in mind. She was enrolled in engineering at the Lajpat Nagar College in Delhi and was even a software engineer. However, her beauty and talent led her to the Miss India pageant, and from there, she went on to win Miss World in 2000, which turned her focus to acting.

8/9

Ayushmann Khurrana

Before making his mark in Bollywood, Ayushmann Khurrana was a popular radio jockey at Big FM. His charm and unique voice were his standout features, and he worked in Chandigarh before moving to Mumbai. He eventually made his Bollywood debut with Vicky Donor, and the rest is history. Ayushmann's success story is an inspiration for many aspiring actors and media professionals.

9/9

Vidya Balan

Before becoming a powerhouse performer in Bollywood, Vidya Balan worked as a radio jockey. She had a brief stint with Radio Mirchi in Mumbai, where she would host shows. Vidya initially struggled to get lead roles in films but eventually made a name for herself with remarkable performances in films like Paa, The Dirty Picture, and Kahaani.

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Copyright © Jun 5, 2026, 06.52AM IST Bennett, Coleman & Co. Ltd. All rights reserved. For reprint rights: Times Syndication Service