(Top): L-R: Raju Shrestha, Sridevi, Aftab Shivdasani; (Bottom): L-R: Urmila Matondkar, Hansika Motwani, Darsheel Safary / Courtesy: Wikipedia, IMDb

From Boot Polish's Naaz to Bajrangi Bhaijaan's Harshaali, these young actors remind us how deeply childhood innocence shapes cinema's magic.

Some went on to become megastars; others chose quieter lives—but all of them etched their names in Bollywood's collective memory. Today, we celebrate not just the films they made, but the joy, purity, and nostalgia they continue to bring to every generation of movie lovers.

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Kumari Naaz

Then: One of the earliest celebrated child stars of Indian cinema, Kumari Naaz made audiences weep and smile in Boot Polish (1954), even winning a Filmfare Award for her touching performance.
Now: She later transitioned into adult roles during the 1960s but eventually led a quiet life away from the limelight. Naaz remains an important part of India's cinematic history.

Master Raju (Raju Shrestha)

Then: A child prodigy of the 1970s, Raju starred in classics like Chitchor, Kitaab, and Amar Prem, charming audiences with his innocence and emotional depth.
Now: Raju continues to act in films and television and is one of the few from his generation to have sustained a lifelong career in front of the camera.

Sridevi

Then: She began acting at the tender age of four in Tamil films and went on to appear in Hindi cinema as a child in Julie (1975).
Now: Sridevi became one of India's most iconic actresses, with hits like Mr. India, Chandni, and English Vinglish. Her legacy continues to inspire generations even after her passing.

Urmila Matondkar

Then: Played the adorable child in Masoom (1983), capturing hearts alongside Naseeruddin Shah and Shabana Azmi.
Now: Urmila blossomed into one of Bollywood's most acclaimed 90s actresses with Rangeela, Satya, and Kaun. She's now active in politics and occasionally appears in cultural discussions.

Jugal Hansraj

Then: Another Masoom (1983) alum, remembered for his innocent face and expressive eyes.
Now: Jugal starred in Mohabbatein and directed Roadside Romeo for Yash Raj Films. He now resides in New York and writes children's books.

Manjunath Nayakar

Then: Immortalized as Swami in the beloved TV series Malgudi Days (1987), Manjunath became the face of Indian childhood for an entire generation.
Now: He later pursued a corporate career in marketing and management, though Malgudi Days keeps his legacy alive among India's most loved shows.

Aftab Shivdasani

Then: The cute little boy from Mr. India (1987) and dozens of ads in the 80s and 90s.
Now: Aftab transitioned to adult roles with Masti and Kasoor. He now works in OTT series like Poison and remains selective about his projects.

Shafiq Syed

Then: Known for his moving performance in Salaam Bombay! (1988). Shafiq Syed brought an authentic realism to child acting in Indian cinema.
Now: He stepped away from films after his early success and drives an autorickshaw in Bengaluru. However, his performance in Salaam Bombay! remains a benchmark for naturalistic acting.

Kunal Khemu

Then: Started his journey as a child actor in Hum Hain Rahi Pyar Ke, Raja Hindustani, and Zakhm (1990s).
Now: Kunal grew into a versatile actor with Kalyug, the Golmaal series, and Go Goa Gone. In 2024, he made his directorial debut with Madgaon Express.

Omkar Kapoor

Then: Appeared in hits like Judwaa, Judaai, and Masoom during the 1990s, known for his mischievous charm.
Now: He made a comeback with Pyaar Ka Punchnama 2 (2015) and now features in web series like Bhoot Purva and Hotspot.

Hansika Motwani

Then: Became a household name with TV shows like Shaka Laka Boom Boom and films like Koi... Mil Gaya and Aabra Ka Daabra.
Now: Hansika is now a leading lady in Tamil and Telugu cinema. She tied the knot in 2022 and continues to headline major projects down South.

Shweta Basu Prasad

Then: Won the National Award for Makdee (2002), impressing audiences with her double role in Vishal Bhardwaj's children's classic.
Now: Shweta has since starred in Iqbal, Badrinath Ki Dulhania, and web hits like Hostages and Serious Men. She's also ventured into production.

Tanvi Hegde

Then: Known as "Frooti" from the popular TV series Son Pari and seen in films like Vaah! Life HoToh Aisil. 
Now: Tanvi acts in Marathi films and remains a fond part of every 90s kid's memory.

Darsheel Safary

Then: Became a national sensation as Ishaan Awasthi in Taare Zameen Par (2007), playing a dyslexic child with unmatched sensitivity. 
Now: Darsheel continues to explore acting through theater and indie films like Capital A, Small a (2023).

Ayesha Kapur

Then: Delivered an unforgettable performance as young Michelle McNally in Black (2005), winning the National Award.
Now: After studying abroad, Ayesha turned entrepreneur but remains remembered for one of the finest child performances in Bollywood history.