Anushka Shetty, often hailed as the “Lady Superstar” of South Indian cinema, has redefined the role of female leads in mainstream Indian films. Known for her commanding screen presence, ability to carry a film on her shoulders, and versatility in playing diverse characters, Anushka has been a trendsetter in the Telugu and Tamil film industries.
As of 2025, she remains one of the most respected actresses in Indian cinema, balancing larger-than-life roles with emotionally charged performances. Here’s a look at the Top 10 Movies of Anushka Shetty that defined her career and cemented her legacy as one of the finest actresses of her generation.
Here is a list of top 10 best movies of Anushka Shetty:
1. Arundhati (2009) – The Film That Made Her a Superstar
If one film truly defined Anushka’s stardom, it was Arundhati. Playing dual roles—Arundhati, a modern woman, and Jejamma, a warrior queen—Anushka delivered a phenomenal performance that showcased her strength, grace, and acting prowess. This supernatural thriller became a massive hit and remains one of the greatest female-led films in Telugu cinema.
2. Baahubali Series (2015 & 2017) – A Global Blockbuster
Anushka’s portrayal of Devasena in Baahubali: The Beginning and Baahubali: The Conclusion is iconic. From a fierce warrior to an oppressed yet strong-willed queen, her character arc was one of the most powerful in the franchise. S.S. Rajamouli’s magnum opus wouldn’t have been the same without Anushka’s regal presence and emotionally charged performance.
3. Rudhramadevi (2015) – A Historical Epic
In this historical drama, Anushka played Rani Rudhramadevi, the 13th-century Kakatiya queen who ruled Telangana. The film required her to portray strength, leadership, and vulnerability, and she excelled in every aspect. The grandeur of the film, combined with Anushka’s intense performance, made Rudhramadevi one of the best historical films in Indian cinema.
4. Vedam (2010) – A Critically Acclaimed Multi-Narrative Film
Vedam, directed by Krish, saw Anushka in one of her most emotionally intense roles as Saroja, a prostitute who dreams of a better life. The film’s realism, gripping screenplay, and her outstanding performance earned her critical acclaim. She won multiple awards for this role, proving her ability to shine in offbeat, performance-driven films.
5. Size Zero (2015) – A Bold and Unconventional Role
Anushka broke stereotypes with Size Zero, a film where she played a plus-sized woman struggling with societal expectations and body image issues. Gaining weight for the role instead of using prosthetics showed her dedication to realism. The film was a strong social commentary on body shaming and self-love, and her performance was widely appreciated.
6. Deiva Thirumagal (2011) – A Heartwarming Performance
In this Tamil drama starring Vikram, Anushka played a lawyer who fights for the rights of a mentally challenged father to keep custody of his daughter. Her performance was subtle yet impactful, proving her ability to deliver emotionally resonant roles in a story-driven narrative. The film remains one of the most touching dramas of her career.
7. Bhagamathie (2018) – A Supernatural Thriller With A Twist
Playing the role of an IAS officer turned prisoner in a haunted palace, Anushka once again delivered a powerhouse performance in Bhagamathie. The psychological thriller kept audiences on the edge of their seats, and her transformation from a helpless victim to a fearless avenger was a treat to watch. The film was a commercial success and added another feather to her cap.
8. Mirchi (2013) – A Perfect Blend of Action and Romance
This Prabhas-starrer had Anushka playing Vennela, a character full of life and warmth. While it was an action-packed mass entertainer, she ensured her role had emotional depth. Her chemistry with Prabhas was one of the highlights, and the film became a major hit in Telugu cinema.
9. Singam Series (2010, 2013, 2017) – High-Voltage Action Franchise
Anushka’s pairing with Suriya in the Singam series was highly successful. Playing Kavya, the love interest of the fearless cop Durai Singam, she brought a perfect balance of charm, wit, and emotional depth to her character. Her performance in these commercial hits made her a fan favorite in Tamil cinema.
10. Nishabdham (2020) – An Underrated Experiment
*Anushka took a risk with Nishabdham, playing a mute artist entangled in a mysterious crime. The film’s experimental storytelling and her silent yet expressive acting received mixed reviews, but her performance was praised for its authenticity and intensity.
Anushka Shetty: A Legacy of Strength and Talent
Anushka Shetty’s filmography is a testament to her versatility as an actress. Unlike many of her contemporaries, she never shied away from playing strong, independent characters who carried the weight of the narrative. Whether it was the warrior queen in Rudhramadevi, the fearless Devasena in Baahubali, or the tormented yet powerful protagonist in Arundhati, Anushka carved a niche for herself as one of Indian cinema’s most formidable actresses.
Why Is Anushka Shetty So Special?
Her ability to handle female-centric films – Unlike many actresses who rely on male-driven films, Anushka has delivered multiple solo hits that thrived on her performance alone.
Her physical transformations – From gaining weight for Size Zero to intense action sequences in Rudhramadevi, she has always committed fully to her roles.
Her balanced career choices – She has starred in blockbuster commercial films like Singam and Mirchi, while also excelling in content-driven cinema like Vedam and Deiva Thirumagal.
Her rare on-screen charisma – Whether playing a romantic lead or a fierce warrior, she has a screen presence that few can match.
What’s Next for Anushka Shetty?
In 2025, fans eagerly await her next projects, hoping for another power-packed performance. While she has become selective with her roles, every film she chooses generates immense anticipation. With the rise of pan-Indian cinema and digital streaming, Anushka is expected to explore new genres and challenging roles in the years to come.
Even if she chooses to slow down, her legacy is firmly cemented in Indian cinema. These Top 10 Movies prove why she is regarded as one of the finest actresses of her generation, and her impact will be felt for years to come.
Santosh Kumar is a Professional SEO and Blogger, With the help of this blog he is trying to share top 10 lists, facts, entertainment news from India and all around the world.