IMDb's top Tripti Dimri Beats Bollywood Biggies to Become India's Most Popular Movie Star

Dimri’s rise is a testament to how audiences are embracing fresh talent, and her journey reflects the evolving dynamics of stardom in the Indian film industry. Here's a detailed look at the rankings, the factors influencing them, and what this means for the future of Indian cinema.

Tripti Dimri’s career trajectory is an inspiring story of persistence and talent. Known for her compelling performances in films like Laila Majnu (2018), Bulbbul (2020), and her latest projects Animal and Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 (2024), Dimri has quickly become a household name. Her nuanced acting, combined with her ability to take on complex roles, has endeared her to audiences and critics alike.

The IMDb rankings, based on the page views of over 250 million global monthly visitors, highlight her widespread popularity. In 2024, Dimri has not only gained recognition for her performances but also for being a prominent face in pan-India cinema, a trend that has become increasingly significant in recent years.

Dimri isn’t the only young actor making waves in 2024. Ishan Khatter, another 29-year-old, has secured the third spot in IMDb’s list. Khatter’s consistent rise can be attributed to his remarkable versatility. From his debut in Majid Majidi’s Beyond the Clouds (2017) to his first international venture, A Suitable Boy (2020), and now his role in Netflix’s The Perfect Couple alongside Hollywood icon Nicole Kidman, Khatter has expanded his fan base globally.

Meanwhile, actress Sharvari also features in the top ten. With back-to-back hits like Munjya, Maharaj, and Vedaa in 2024, she has solidified her place in the hearts of moviegoers. The inclusion of these young stars signals a generational shift in Indian cinema, where talent and versatility are often prioritized over established names.

IMDb, a subsidiary of Amazon, has been a global authority on movies, TV shows, and celebrities since 1998. Its annual star rankings, launched in 2017, measure the popularity of actors based on user page views. The STARmeter rankings are part of IMDbPro, a paid service widely used by film studios, agents, and industry professionals.

According to Yaminie Patodia, head of IMDb India, “IMDb measures the popularity of Indian stars on page views. This allows us to capture trends across India’s entertainment industries, stemming from pan-India titles and the increased discovery of regional movies by a broader Indian audience.”

Unlike awards or box-office metrics, IMDb rankings reflect real-time audience interest, making them a reliable indicator of a star’s current standing in the entertainment world. Additionally, IMDb employs a proprietary algorithm that neutralizes any attempts at manipulation, ensuring the authenticity of these rankings.

The 2024 list is a departure from previous years, where more established names like Shah Rukh Khan and Dhanush dominated the rankings. For instance, Shah Rukh Khan topped the list in 2023, riding high on the success of Pathaan, Jawan, and Dunki. In 2022, it was Dhanush who took the crown, thanks to his roles in Thiruchitrambalam and Hollywood’s The Gray Man.

This year’s rankings, however, feature a mix of emerging and seasoned stars, emphasizing the rise of pan-India cinema and the growing influence of regional films. Stars like Sobhita Dhulipala, ranked fifth in 2024, exemplify this trend. Dhulipala’s Hollywood debut in Monkey Man, her voice-over for Deepika Padukone in Kalki 2898 AD, and her engagement to Telugu actor Naga Chaitanya Akkineni kept her in the spotlight.

Even without recent releases, enduring icons like Shah Rukh Khan and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan consistently feature in IMDb’s weekly rankings, highlighting their timeless appeal.

One of the most notable trends in recent years is the rise of pan-India films. No longer confined to regional boundaries, movies from South India, Marathi cinema, and even smaller industries are now gaining nationwide recognition.

This shift has allowed actors like Tripti Dimri and Ishan Khatter to appeal to a broader audience, transcending language and regional barriers. Films like RRR and Kantara have paved the way for such projects, proving that Indian cinema is more united than ever before.

The stark differences between the 2024 list and those of 2022 and 2023 can be attributed to several factors:

1. Increased Output: Actors like Dimri and Khatter have been prolific, with multiple releases in a single year.

2. Global Projects: With Khatter’s international collaborations and Dhulipala’s Hollywood debut, Indian actors are gaining global visibility.

3. Social Media Buzz: The influence of social media cannot be overstated. Actors who consistently engage with their audience tend to remain in the spotlight.

The rise of stars like Tripti Dimri, Ishan Khatter, and Sharvari signals a promising future for Indian cinema. With fresh talent dominating the scene, the industry is poised for a new era where versatility and audience connection are paramount.

Moreover, the growing popularity of pan-India films and the global reach of streaming platforms are ensuring that Indian cinema continues to thrive on an international scale.

Tripti Dimri’s ascent to the top of IMDb’s 2024 rankings is not just a personal achievement but a reflection of the changing face of Indian cinema. Alongside young stars like Ishan Khatter and Sharvari, she represents a new generation of talent that is redefining stardom.

As audience preferences evolve and the industry continues to break regional barriers, the future looks brighter than ever. The IMDb rankings serve as a barometer for these trends, capturing the pulse of Indian entertainment and offering a glimpse into the stars of tomorrow.

Indian cinema is no longer limited to its traditional boundaries. With young actors leading the charge, it is setting new benchmarks for creativity, storytelling, and global appeal. The stars of 2024 have proven that the industry’s best days are still ahead, and audiences worldwide are eagerly watching.