5 Indian film stars who made it big in China – from Aamir Khan of 3 Idiots fame, to Fatima Sana Shaikh and Hong Kong-born Katrina Kaif
Bollywood stars and other Indian actors like Gill Mohindepaul Singh and Rani Mukerji who became famous in China with hits like Dangal and Hichki
As if being a major force in the entertainment industry of the second-most populous country in the world was not enough, there are a number of Indian actors and actresses who shot to stardom in their neighbouring country, China, as well.
There are also those who skipped Bollywood altogether and opted for a Chinese audience from the get-go. Find out who these groundbreaking stars are and what their Chinese big breaks were.
1. Aamir Khan
The secret superstar of China paved the way for the Renaissance of Indian films in their neighbouring country. “Uncle” Aamir Khan initially won Chinese hearts through pirated DVDs of his comedy-drama hit 3 Idiots. Since then, they have been willing to buy movie tickets to see his work, with Dangal remaining as the highest-earning Indian movie in China at US$183.3 million. On Weibo, he has amassed more than a million followers.
2. Fatima Sana Shaikh
Amir Khan’s Dangal daughter Fatima Sana Shaikh made waves in China after bagging the best action actress award at the fourth annual Jackie Chan Film Action Movie Week. She even snagged a photo with the Chinese superstar himself during the 2018 Shanghai Film Festival. The following year, Fatima was yet again honoured at the same event for her intense action stunts in Thugs of Hindustan.
3. Gill Mohindepaul Singh