The world of Bollywood has given us some incredibly talented child stars over the years—actors who won our hearts with their innocence, charm, and outstanding performances. From Darsheel Safary’s emotional role in Taare Zameen Par to Ahsaas Channa’s unique journey through television and digital platforms, these young actors left a lasting mark on Indian cinema.
But what happened to these child stars as they grew up? Did they continue to pursue acting, or did life take them in a different direction? Let’s take a closer look at where some of Bollywood’s most beloved child actors are now.
🌟 1. Darsheel Safary – The Face of Emotional Storytelling
Then:
Darsheel became a household name after playing Ishaan Awasthi in Taare Zameen Par (2007), a role that brought tears to the eyes of millions. He was celebrated for portraying a dyslexic child with such depth that it redefined how child characters were written in Bollywood.
Now:
Darsheel continued to act in films like Bumm Bumm Bole and Zokkomon, but he later shifted focus to theater and education. Today, he is active on social media, occasionally doing workshops and stage performances. While he’s not in the mainstream limelight, he is still deeply connected to the performing arts.
🌟 2. Ahsaas Channa – From TV’s Little Boy to Digital Diva
Then:
Interestingly, Ahsaas Channa began her career playing male child characters in films like Vaastu Shastra and Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna. As she grew up, she smoothly transitioned into TV serials and later, web series.
Now:
Ahsaas has become a prominent face in the Indian digital content scene. She starred in web series like Girls Hostel, Kota Factory, and Hostel Daze, earning a massive youth fanbase. With her charm and versatility, Ahsaas has carved a strong niche for herself in the OTT space.
🌟 3. Tanay Chheda – From Taare Zameen Par to Slumdog Millionaire
Then:
Tanay played Darsheel’s classmate in Taare Zameen Par and later portrayed the teenage version of Jamal Malik in the Oscar-winning film Slumdog Millionaire.
Now:
Tanay chose a quieter path after his early success. He shifted his focus to academics and is currently studying abroad. While he isn’t active in films today, his work left a lasting impression on global cinema.
🌟 4. Hansika Motwani – A Successful Transition
Then:
Hansika was a known face in TV shows like Shaka Laka Boom Boom and Des Mein Niklla Hoga Chand, and later appeared in films like Koi… Mil Gaya as one of Hrithik Roshan’s friends.
Now:
Hansika made a smooth transition into adult roles and is now a popular actress in South Indian cinema, especially in Tamil and Telugu films. With several hits to her name, she continues to enjoy a loyal fan following and has also recently tied the knot.
🌟 5. Sana Saeed – Still ‘Anjali’ in Our Hearts
Then:
Sana played the unforgettable role of little Anjali in Kuch Kuch Hota Hai (1998), winning over audiences with her emotional performance.
Now:
She reappeared in films like Student of the Year and participated in dance reality shows such as Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa. Though not consistently in the news, she remains in touch with her fans through social media and occasional public appearances.
🌟 6. Jibraan Khan – Rahul and Anjali’s On-Screen Son
Then:
Jibraan played Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol’s son in Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham (2001), charming viewers with his sweet innocence.
Now:
Jibraan has grown into a fitness enthusiast and trained actor. He is preparing for a Bollywood comeback and was recently seen assisting on film sets and working on his body transformation to suit leading roles.
🌟 7. Parzan Dastur – The Silent Sardar Kid from KKHH
Then:
Parzan didn’t even need lines to be remembered. His role as the silent Sikh boy counting stars in Kuch Kuch Hota Hai made him a fan favorite.
Now:
Parzan has directed short films and worked in the advertising industry. He’s also exploring writing and occasionally appears in small indie projects. A perfect example of how some child actors evolve behind the camera.
🌟 8. Malvika Raaj – Mini Poo from K3G
Then:
She was the young version of Kareena Kapoor’s character ‘Poo’ in Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham, full of sass and attitude.
Now:
Malvika has returned to acting as an adult and was seen in Squad (2021). She is also active on social media and focuses on modeling and endorsements while continuing her acting pursuits.
🎬 What Makes Child Stars So Memorable?
Bollywood child actors hold a special place in viewers’ hearts because they often represent innocence, hope, and raw emotion. Whether they continue in the film industry or move on to new ventures, their early roles remain iconic.
These stars become part of our childhood memories—and as they grow up, so do we, watching them evolve just like we do in our own lives.
💡 Conclusion: The Journey from Innocence to Identity
From Darsheel’s emotional depth to Ahsaas’s digital reign, Bollywood’s former child stars have taken different yet inspiring paths. Some chose to remain in the spotlight, others explored new horizons, and a few decided to stay away from fame altogether.
But one thing remains constant: the impact they made on our screens and in our hearts.
Their journeys show us that fame as a child doesn’t guarantee a linear path to success, but with talent, passion, and adaptability, they can reinvent themselves in amazing ways.