One can’t deny the fact that Bollywood, essentially, is a male dominated industry, where women are often used as mere props who add glamour on screen.

However, some of our new-age B-town girls are slowly but gradually changing the definition of the stereotypical Bollywood heroine, not just with their power packed performances but also by carrying the weight of an entire film on their delicate shoulders. What’s more, they are even ensuring decent box office returns.

We take a look at 6 powerpuff girls of Bollywood, who refuse to remain in the shadow of the hero.

Kangana Ranaut

The National Award winning actress not only is pretty as hell but is also a powerhouse of talent, who has the potential of luring the audiences into the theatre without the backing of any big male star.

With films like Queen and Tanu Weds Manu Returns, Kangana has proved that her delicate shoulders are capable enough to bear the load of an entire film and even make enviable business at the box office.

What’s more the actress who would be seen in yet another woman-centric film (Simran) this year has publicly said that she wouldn’t want to work with any of the Khans if she doesn’t have an equally powerful role as them. Bravo gal!

Priyanka Chopra

The versatile Baywatch actress did her share of naach-ganna initially when she started her journey as a Bollywood actress, but she soon proved that there is a lot more to her than just a pretty face and a sexy figure.

From getting honoured for portraying a range of characters in films like Agneepath, Kaminey, Barfi, Mary Kom, Bajirao Mastani etc., to becoming the first South Asian to headline an American network series with her popular show Quantico, Priyanka Chopra has truly redefined the conventional image of a Hindi film heroine.

Deepika Padukone

From being criticized for her acting talents to being one of the highest paid actresses of Bollywood, Deepika Padukone has definitely come a long way.

With films like Piku, Goliyon Ki Rasleela Ram-Leela, Cocktail and now Padmavati — Deepika has struck a perfect balance between masala as well as content-driven films.

Furthermore, she is making her presence felt in Hollywood too.

Vidya Balan

Since her very first Hindi film — Parineeta, Vidya Balan has dared to challenge the norms. And though she did get caught in the conventional web momentarily, the Begum Jaan actress was smart enough to break free and do the unimaginable.

With her films like Kahaani, The Dirty Picture, Paa, No One Killed Jessica — Vidya Balan time and again has proved that a female actor can easily shoulder the onus of an entire film sans any Khans.

Sonakshi Sinha

While the Noor actress is yet to prove her potential at the box-office, she has claimed a place for herself as the action heroine of Bollywood with her last year’s release — Akira.

After being in the shadow of her male superstars, Sona is finally getting experimental and showing that she is no less than her action co-stars.

Alia Bhatt

The Badrinath Ki Dulhania actress maybe too young, but that’s not stopping her from doing a varied range of challenging roles.

Be it a Highway, Udta Punjab or Dear Zindagi the young actress is already breaking away from the conventional mould of an archetypical Bollywood heroine. And boy, aren’t we loving that!?!

More power to all these powerpuff girls of Bollywood, and a Happy Women’s Day to all you beautiful ladies.