From Tanyaa Mishra to Priya Prakash Varrier, a Look at India’s Reigning and Past ‘National Crushes’
India's 'National Crush' phenomenon highlights how viral moments and screen presence instantly catapult artists to nationwide fame. This fan-bestowed tag has evolved from viral internet debuts, like an iconic winking video and a raw romantic drama debut to breakthrough performances in blockbusters.
Bollywood and South Indian cinema have a unique way of elevating stars to 'National Crush' status, a fan-driven phenomenon that signifies immense popularity and widespread adoration. This unofficial title is currently abuzz with the name of model-actress Tanya Mishra, whose stunning visuals and growing digital presence have captured the internet's imagination. As Mishra enjoys her moment in the spotlight, let us take a look back at the actresses who previously charmed their way into the hearts of millions across India. Who Is Tanyaa Mishra? Meet India’s New National Crush Going Viral with Her Glamorous Photos.
India's National Crushes Over the Years
Tanya Mishra
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Born on January 31, 1999, in Gaya, Bihar, Tanya Mishra, at 27 years old, has swiftly become a social media darling, with over 1.2 million followers on Instagram. Her rise to the 'National Crush' tag is attributed to her glamorous photographs, fashion posts, and captivating screen presence. Beyond her digital fame, Tanya has built a diverse portfolio in the entertainment industry, including appearances in films, web series, and seven music videos.
Mishra was the fourth runner-up at IAWA Miss India 2019 and has been recognised with the Lokmat Award 2023 and the Femina Achievers Award 2024 for her contributions to the industry.
Triptii Dimri
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Actress Triptii Dimri, born on February 23, 1994, and now 32 years old, experienced an unprecedented surge in popularity after her impactful role as Zoya in Sandeep Reddy Vanga's action-drama Animal. Released on December 1, 2023, the film became a commercial blockbuster, grossing ₹917 crore against a budget of ₹100 crore.
Dimri's brief yet memorable appearance alongside Ranbir Kapoor, Anil Kapoor, Bobby Deol, and Rashmika Mandanna significantly boosted her profile. Her Instagram following skyrocketed from 600K to 2.4 million within just seven days of the film's release, solidifying her status as a 'National Crush'. Animal is available for streaming on Netflix since January 26, 2024. Prior to this, Dimri had already garnered critical acclaim for her performances in films like Bulbbul (2020) and Qala (2022).
Rashmika Mandanna
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Often referred to as the 'National Crush of India,' a title she gained significant recognition for after appearing in Google searches in 2020, Rashmika Mandanna, 30 years old (born April 5, 1996), has successfully blurred regional boundaries. Her infectious smile and vibrant screen presence first gained her widespread recognition after the success of Geetha Govindam (2018).
Her pan-India appeal was further cemented with Sukumar's Telugu action-drama Pushpa: The Rise, which was released on December 17, 2021. Mandanna's portrayal of Srivalli and her electrifying performance in the song "Saami Saami" became a national sensation. She also starred as Geetanjali in Animal (2023) and is set to reprise her role in the highly anticipated sequel, Pushpa 2: The Rule, scheduled for release on December 5, 2024.
Sreeleela
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Sreeleela, born on June 14, 2001, in Detroit, Michigan, U.S., and raised in Bengaluru, India, is 25 years old and has swiftly risen to become another prominent 'National Crush'. A qualified medical doctor, having graduated with an MBBS degree in February 2026, she has a remarkable dual career path.
Sreeleela made her debut in the Kannada film Kiss (2019) and her Telugu debut with Pelli Sandadi (2021). She gained significant recognition through films like Dhamaka (2022), Bhagavanth Kesari (2023), and her leading role in Guntur Kaaram (2024). Her energetic dance numbers and captivating screen presence are her hallmarks. The song "Kurchi Madathapetti" from Guntur Kaaram, co-starring Mahesh Babu and released on January 12, 2024, became a viral sensation.
Medha Shankr
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Medha Shankr, born on August 1, 1998, in Noida, Uttar Pradesh, is 28 years old and became an internet sensation and 'National Crush' following her role as Shraddha Joshi in Vidhu Vinod Chopra's critically acclaimed film 12th Fail (2023). Her authentic performance and natural beauty resonated deeply with audiences, setting her apart in the industry.
12th Fail saw immense success, especially after its OTT release, bringing Medha widespread recognition and over a million Instagram followers. Beyond acting, Medha is also a trained Hindustani classical singer and can play instruments like the sitar, harmonium, and keyboard. She also sang her own vocals for the song "Bolo Na" in 12th Fail. She was awarded the Zee Cine Award for Best Female Debut.
Sai Pallavi
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Sai Pallavi, born on May 9, 1992, making her 34 years old, captured hearts across South India with her breakthrough role as Malar in Alphonse Puthren's Malayalam coming-of-age romantic drama Premam. Released on May 29, 2015, the film was a major commercial success, grossing INR 73 crore against a budget of INR 4 crore.
Pallavi's raw, natural performance alongside Nivin Pauly, Madonna Sebastian, and Anupama Parameswaran earned her widespread critical acclaim and several accolades, including the Filmfare Award for Best Female Debut (South). Her portrayal in Premam created a significant impact, making her a beloved figure among film enthusiasts even without the explicit 'National Crush' label being as prevalent at the time of her rise.
Priya Prakash Varrier
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Perhaps one of the most instantaneous rises to 'National Crush' status belongs to Priya Prakash Varrier, born on October 28, 1999, now 26 years old. She became an overnight sensation and the 'winking sensation' in February 2018 when a short clip from the song "Manikya Malaraya Poovi" from her debut Malayalam film Oru Adaar Love went viral across the internet. Priya Prakash Varrier Questioned by Reporter for Wearing Saffron Dress at Kerala Event; Here’s How Actress Responded (Watch Video).
The song, released on February 9, 2018, made her the most searched-for personality on Google in India that year. Directed by Omar Lulu, Oru Adaar Love was eventually released on February 14, 2019, starring Priya Prakash Varrier, Roshan Abdul Rahoof, and Noorin Shereef. The film had a budget of INR 5 crore and grossed INR 12 crore. Her captivating wink became a cultural phenomenon, demonstrating the power of social media in creating instant stardom.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 29, 2026 05:59 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
