Indian Actors And Actresses Who Changed Their Names For Fame

By Syed Ameenuddin

| Published: Monday, January 13, 2025, 19:07 [IST]

Many Bollywood stars have changed their names to create a lasting impact in the industry. Amitabh Bachchan, originally Inquilaab Srivastava, adopted his new name on the advice of poet Sumitranandan Pant. Rajinikanth, born Shivaji Rao Gaekwad, was given his iconic name by director K. Balachander. Akshay Kumar, originally Rajiv Hari Om Bhatia, took on his screen name inspired by a character he admired. Rekha, originally Bhanurekha Ganesan, and Sunny Leone, born Karenjit Kaur Vohra, also changed their names to carve unique identities. These transformations have become synonymous with their success and fame in Bollywood.

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Amitabh Bachchan: Born Inquilaab Srivastava, he changed his name to Amitabh Bachchan upon the suggestion of poet Sumitranandan Pant. The name "Amitabh" means "the light that will never die."

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Salman Khan: Originally named Abdul Rashid Salim Salman Khan, he chose to go by Salman Khan for his film career, simplifying his lengthy birth name.

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Rajinikanth: Shivaji Rao Gaekwad adopted the name Rajinikanth, given to him by his mentor, director K. Balachander. The name signifies his on-screen charisma and larger-than-life image.

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Akshay Kumar: Rajiv Hari Om Bhatia changed his name to Akshay Kumar, inspired by a character he admired in the film "Aaj." The name change marked his entry into Bollywood.

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Rekha: Bhanurekha Ganesan shortened her name to Rekha, creating an iconic identity that has become synonymous with grace and talent in Indian cinema.

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Ranveer Singh: Born Ranveer Singh Bhavnani, he simplified his name to Ranveer Singh for his acting career, making it easier for fans to remember and connect with him.

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Shilpa Shetty: Originally named Ashwini Shetty, she changed her name to Shilpa Shetty based on her mother's advice, believing it to be more auspicious for her film career.

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John Abraham: Farhan Abraham chose the name John Abraham for his acting career, creating a distinct and memorable identity that resonated with audiences.

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Sunny Leone: Karenjit Kaur Vohra adopted the name Sunny Leone as her stage name, which has become widely recognized in the entertainment industry.

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