Year In Review 2025: Rupali Ganguly To Shivangi Joshi; Top 7 TV Actresses Who Ruled The Year

As 2025 comes to end, we're taking it as a standout year for Indian television. With several actresses dominating screens and fans’ hearts. Rupali Ganguly emerged as the most popular actress of the year, thanks to her ongoing role in Anupamaa and buzz across social platforms. Shivangi Joshi also secured a top spot, maintaining strong fan engagement and visibility through her performance in Bade Acche Lagte Hain 4. Close behind were Smriti Irani, whose return as Tulsi in Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi 2 sparked nostalgia and massive viewership, and Samridhii Shukla, who impressed audiences with her evolving character arc. Other actresses like Pranali Rathod, Neha Harsora also made impact, either through high TRPs, fan polls, or buzz around their

shows. Together, these women helped define Indian TV entertainment in 2025 with strong performances and popularity. As we wrap 2025, we're taking a look at the list of 7 actresses who ruled the Indian TV scene in the year.Top 7 actresses who ruled TV in 2025

1. Samridhii Shukla (Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai)

As per Gossip TV, Samridhii Shukla secured the top position with her performance as Abhira Sharma Poddar in Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai. She brought depth and authenticity to her character. She balances emotional scenes with subtle expressions, making her portrayal relatable and engaging. Critics and fans appreciate her ability to convey both vulnerability and strength. Overall, her performance has been seen as a standout, contributing significantly to the show’s continued popularity.

2. Rupali Ganguly (Anupamaa)

Securing the second spot is Rupali Ganguly, best known for her powerful performance as Anupamaa, where she skillfully portrays a mother balancing family challenges and personal growth. Her emotional depth, relatability, and strong screen presence have made her a fan favorite, keeping her at the top of TV ratings and social media popularity in 2025.

3. Shivangi Joshi (Bade Acche Lagte Hain 4)

On Spot 3 is Shivangi Joshi who garnered attention in 2025 for her role in Bade Acche Lagte Hain – Naya Safar, where she brought warmth and charm to her character. Known for her natural acting style, Shivangi's performance has been widely appreciated for its emotional depth and relatability, making her a standout in the show. Fans and critics alike praise her ability to connect with viewers through her expressive portrayal of complex emotions.

4. Smriti Irani (Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi 2)

TV's OG Bahu Smriti Irani aka Tulsi Virani made her powerful comeback to TV with Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi 2. In the list, she is positioned on number 4.Smriti Irani made a sensational return as Tulsi in Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi 2 in 2025, blending nostalgia with a fresh appeal. Her strong screen presence and emotional depth captivated fans, maintaining the iconic essence of her character. Smriti's performance was widely praised for its maturity and relatability. She once again proved why she’s one of the most iconic actresses in Indian television.

5. Rubina Dilaik (Laughter Chefs 2/ Pati Patni Aur Panga)

Pati Patni Aur Panga winner Rubina Dilaik secured a space in fans' hearts with her performance in Laughter Chefs Season 2 and Pati Patni Aur Panga. The former Bigg Boss winner impressed audiences in 2025 with her versatility in shows. In Laughter Chefs 2, she showcased her comic timing, bringing humor and charm to the show. Meanwhile, in Pati Patni Aur Panga, Rubina’s performance as a strong, independent woman navigating life’s ups and downs won hearts for its relatability and emotional depth.

6. Pranali Rathod (Kumkum Bhagya/ Durga)

Holding the sixth position in the list of TV actresses who ruled in 2025 is - Pranali Rathod. She stood out in 2025 with her impactful performances in Kumkum Bhagya and Durga. In Kumkum Bhagya, she portrayed a strong, layered character, gaining attention for her emotional depth and strong presence. In Durga, Pranali showcased her versatility, balancing action and emotion with ease. Her performances were widely appreciated for their sincerity and relatability, making her one of the top rising stars on Indian television.

7. Neha Harsora (Udne Ki Aasha)

Neha Harsora is on seventh position in the list of TV actresses who ruled 2027. She made a mark in 2025 with her role in Udne Ki Aasha, where she portrayed a strong, determined character chasing her dreams. Her performance was praised for its authenticity and emotional depth, resonating with audiences who connected with her journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Neha’s portrayal of a young woman striving for success in a challenging world earned her recognition as one of the fresh and promising talents on Indian television.Which of these TV actresses is your favourite? Tweet to us @TimesNow!