Height has never been a barrier to success in Bollywood, but certain actresses have turned their statuesque frames into signature assets. From former beauty queens to contemporary superstars, these towering talents have redefined glamour standards in Indian cinema. Let’s explore the tallest Bollywood actresses who’ve made their mark both literally and figuratively.
Table of Contents
Complete Height Ranking: Tallest Bollywood Actresses
| Rank | Actress Name | Height | Notable Films | Career Highlight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Yukta Mookhey | 5’11” (180 cm) | Pyaasa, Good Newwz | Miss World 1999 |
| 2 | Diana Penty | 5’10” (178 cm) | Cocktail, Parmanu | Top Model & Actress |
| 3 | Kriti Sanon | 5’10” (178 cm) | Mimi, Bhediya | National Film Award Winner |
| 4 | Deepika Padukone | 5’9″ (175 cm) | Padmaavat, Pathaan | India’s Highest-Paid Actress |
| 5 | Anushka Sharma | 5’9″ (175 cm) | PK, Sultan | Actress & Producer |
| 6 | Sonam Kapoor | 5’9″ (175 cm) | Neerja, Pad Man | Fashion Icon |
| 7 | Sushmita Sen | 5’9″ (175 cm) | Main Hoon Na, Aarya | Miss Universe 1994 |
| 8 | Shilpa Shetty | 5’9″ (175 cm) | Dhadkan, Baazigar | Fitness Entrepreneur |
| 9 | Katrina Kaif | 5’8.5″ (174 cm) | Tiger 3, Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara | Top Commercial Star |
| 10 | Tabu | 5’7″ (170 cm) | Andhadhun, Drishyam 2 | Four-Time National Award Winner |
1. Yukta Mookhey – The Tallest of Them All (5’11”)
Yukta Mookhey holds the distinction of being Bollywood’s tallest actress at 5 feet 11 inches. Born in Bangalore in 1977, Yukta became the fourth Indian woman to capture the Miss World crown in 1999. Her journey from beauty pageant winner to actress began with a special appearance in the Tamil film Poovellam Un Vasam in 2001.
Her Bollywood debut came with Pyaasa in 2002 opposite Aftab Shivdasani, though the film underperformed at the box office. Despite her stunning looks and impressive height, Yukta’s film career faced challenges. She appeared in films like Memsahab (2005) and Love in Japan (2005), but none achieved commercial success. Ironically, her exceptional height—which made her stand out on the runway—became a casting challenge in an industry where male actors often preferred shorter co-stars.
After a troubled marriage and divorce in 2014, Yukta stepped away from cinema to focus on social activism. She now dedicates her life to causes including HIV/AIDS awareness, breast cancer support, and fighting child labor in India’s firecracker industries. Her comeback appearance in Good Newwz (2019) alongside Akshay Kumar and Kareena Kapoor was brief but memorable.
2. Diana Penty – The Elegant Model-Turned-Actress (5’10”)
Diana Penty stands at 5 feet 10 inches, making her the second tallest actress in Bollywood. Born in Mumbai in 1985, Diana’s journey began in the fashion world when Elite Models India signed her in 2005. Her modeling portfolio includes campaigns for major international brands, establishing her as one of India’s most successful supermodels.
Diana made her acting debut in the 2012 romantic comedy Cocktail and received a Filmfare Award nomination for Best Female Debut. Her performance alongside Saif Ali Khan and Deepika Padukone showcased her natural acting ability and screen presence. Since then, Diana has been selective about her projects, appearing in critically acclaimed films like Parmanu: The Story of Pokhran (2018) and Happy Bhag Jayegi (2016). Her statuesque frame and elegant demeanor have made her a favorite for both fashion designers and filmmakers seeking sophistication on screen.
3. Kriti Sanon – The Engineering Graduate Who Conquered Cinema (5’10”)
Kriti Sanon towers at 5 feet 10 inches and holds a B.Tech degree in Electronics before entering films. Born in 1990, Kriti represents the modern Bollywood actress who balances brains with beauty. She initially started as a model before transitioning to acting, first in Telugu cinema with Nenokkadine (2014).
Her Bollywood debut came with Heropanti (2014) opposite Tiger Shroff, earning her the Filmfare Award for Best Female Debut. Since then, Kriti has delivered powerhouse performances in films like Bareilly Ki Barfi (2017), Luka Chuppi (2019), and most notably Mimi (2021), for which she won the National Film Award for Best Actress. Her role as a surrogate mother in Mimi showcased her versatility and emotional depth. Recent hits like Bhediya (2022) and Adipurush (2023) have cemented her position among Bollywood’s top actresses. At 5’10”, Kriti has never let her height limit her pairing options, proving that talent transcends physical attributes.
4. Deepika Padukone – The Global Icon (5’9″)
Deepika Padukone stands at 5 feet 9 inches and ranks as India’s highest-paid actress as of 2023. Born in Copenhagen in 1986 to badminton champion Prakash Padukone, Deepika was a national-level badminton player before discovering her passion for acting and modeling. Her athletic background contributed to her graceful posture and commanding screen presence.
Her debut film Om Shanti Om (2007) opposite Shah Rukh Khan was a blockbuster, earning her the Filmfare Award for Best Female Debut. Over the years, Deepika has delivered iconic performances in films like Padmaavat (2018), Chennai Express (2013), Piku (2015), and most recently Pathaan (2023) and Jawan (2023), both crossing the ₹1000-crore mark worldwide. Beyond acting, Deepika is a mental health advocate who founded the Live Love Laugh Foundation to support those struggling with depression. Her height has been an asset in establishing her as a fashion icon, regularly gracing international red carpets and representing India at prestigious events like Cannes Film Festival and Met Gala.
5. Anushka Sharma – The Producer-Actress Powerhouse (5’9″)
Anushka Sharma stands 5 feet 9 inches tall and made her debut in Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi opposite Shah Rukh Khan. Born in Ayodhya in 1988 and raised in Bangalore, Anushka initially pursued modeling before entering films. Her debut in 2008 showcased her natural acting talent and fresh screen presence, immediately establishing her as a promising newcomer.
Anushka’s career trajectory has been impressive, with critically acclaimed performances in PK (2014), Sultan (2016), Ae Dil Hai Mushkil (2016), and Zero (2018). Beyond acting, she’s a successful producer through her production company Clean Slate Filmz, backing content-driven films like NH10 (2015), Pari (2018), and the acclaimed web series Paatal Lok (2020) and Bulbbul (2020). Her tall frame and versatile acting range have made her one of Bollywood’s most bankable stars. Recently, she’s focused on selective projects while balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship.
6. Sonam Kapoor – Bollywood’s Fashion Maven (5’9″)
Sonam Kapoor stands at 5 feet 9 inches tall and is celebrated as Bollywood’s ultimate fashion icon. Born in 1985 to actor Anil Kapoor, Sonam initially worked as an assistant director to Sanjay Leela Bhansali before making her acting debut in Saawariya (2007). Though the film didn’t succeed commercially, Sonam’s screen presence caught attention.
Her breakthrough came with Raanjhanaa (2013), followed by powerful performances in Neerja (2016), where she portrayed the heroic flight attendant Neerja Bhanot, earning her critical acclaim and commercial success. Films like Pad Man (2018) and The Zoya Factor (2019) showcased her commitment to meaningful cinema. Sonam’s tall, slender frame has made her a runway favorite, regularly featured on best-dressed lists at international fashion weeks. She’s become synonymous with bold fashion choices and has used her platform to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and women’s empowerment. For more Bollywood fashion inspiration, check out our celebrity style guide.
7. Sushmita Sen – The Trailblazing Miss Universe (5’9″)
Former Miss Universe 1994, Sushmita Sen stands at 5 feet 9 inches and is one of Bollywood’s most influential actresses. At just 18 years old, Sushmita became the first Indian woman to win the Miss Universe crown, opening doors for future beauty queens. She made her acting debut in Dastak (1996) and went on to deliver memorable performances in films like Biwi No. 1 (1999), Main Hoon Na (2004), and Aankhen (2002).
What sets Sushmita apart is not just her height or beauty but her groundbreaking personal choices. She became one of the first single mothers in Bollywood, adopting two daughters—Renee in 2000 and Alisah in 2010—inspiring countless women to challenge societal norms. Her recent comeback in the web series Aarya (2020) on Disney+ Hotstar earned her critical acclaim and introduced her to a new generation of fans. Sushmita’s confidence, grace, and towering presence continue to inspire women across generations.
8. Shilpa Shetty – The Fitness Icon (5’9″)
Shilpa Shetty stands at 5 feet 9 inches and is renowned for her flawless physique and fitness lifestyle. Born in 1975, Shilpa made her Bollywood debut with Baazigar (1993) and quickly became known for her dancing skills and glamorous screen presence. Films like Dhadkan (2000), Phir Milenge (2004), and Life in a… Metro (2007) showcased her acting prowess.
Beyond acting, Shilpa has built an empire around health and wellness. She’s launched yoga DVDs, written books on fitness and nutrition, and regularly shares wellness tips on social media. Her tall frame combined with her dedication to fitness has made her a role model for healthy living. Currently, she serves as a judge on reality shows and runs successful business ventures including restaurants and a cricket team. Her journey from actress to entrepreneur and fitness icon demonstrates how versatility and height can be powerful assets.
9. Katrina Kaif – The Commercial Superstar (5’8.5″)
British-Indian actress Katrina Kaif stands at 5 feet 8.5 inches and is one of Bollywood’s most successful and highest-paid actresses. Born in Hong Kong in 1983, Katrina began her career as a model in London before making her Bollywood debut with Boom (2003). Despite initial struggles with Hindi, her dedication and hard work paid off spectacularly.
Katrina has starred in numerous blockbusters including the Tiger franchise (Tiger Zinda Hai, Tiger 3), Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara (2011), Ek Tha Tiger (2012), Dhoom 3 (2013), and Bang Bang (2014). Her recent performance in Merry Christmas (2024) opposite Vijay Sethupathi showcased her evolving acting skills. Known for her impeccable dance moves and screen presence, Katrina’s height has complemented her action-packed roles. Her upcoming film Jee Le Zaraa alongside Priyanka Chopra and Alia Bhatt is highly anticipated. Discover more about Bollywood’s leading ladies on our entertainment hub.
10. Tabu – The Versatile Powerhouse (5’7″)
Tabu stands at 5 feet 7 inches and has won four National Film Awards for her performances. Born Tabassum Fatima Hashmi in 1971, Tabu is considered one of Indian cinema’s finest actresses, known for her ability to portray complex characters with nuance and depth. She made her debut in 1985 with Hum Naujawan and has since worked across Bollywood, Tollywood, and Hollywood.
Tabu’s filmography reads like a masterclass in acting: Maachis (1996), Chandni Bar (2001), Maqbool (2004), Haider (2014), Andhadhun (2018), and Drishyam 2 (2022). Her recent performances continue to garner critical acclaim, proving age is no barrier to excellence. While not the tallest on this list, Tabu’s commanding screen presence and towering talent make her an unmissable inclusion. She’s worked with acclaimed international directors and remains a favorite among filmmakers seeking substance over style.
Why Height Matters (But Doesn’t Define Success)
While these actresses share impressive heights, their success stems from talent, dedication, and versatility. Bollywood has evolved from having rigid casting preferences to celebrating diversity in all forms. These tall actresses have proven that height can be an asset without being a limitation, inspiring aspiring actors to embrace their unique physical attributes.
For insights into how Bollywood’s entertainment landscape continues evolving, explore our coverage of top web series and streaming trends.
Official Resources for Bollywood Fans
Stay updated with the latest from your favorite tall actresses on official platforms:
- Bollywood Hungama – Latest celebrity news and updates
- IMDb Bollywood – Comprehensive filmographies and ratings
- Film Companion – In-depth interviews and analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Who is the tallest actress in Bollywood history?
Yukta Mookhey holds the record as Bollywood’s tallest actress at 5 feet 11 inches (180 cm). The Miss World 1999 winner made her Hindi film debut with Pyaasa in 2002. Though her film career was brief, she remains an iconic figure for breaking height barriers. Currently, she works as a social activist championing causes like women’s empowerment, HIV/AIDS awareness, and environmental protection.
Q2: Do tall actresses face challenges in Bollywood casting?
Historically, yes. Many male actors preferred shorter co-stars to maintain traditional on-screen dynamics. However, this mindset has evolved significantly. Today’s actresses like Deepika Padukone, Kriti Sanon, and Anushka Sharma have successfully paired with actors of various heights, proving that chemistry and talent matter more than physical proportions. Modern filmmaking techniques, including camera angles and footwear choices, have made height differences manageable, allowing casting directors to prioritize performance over physical attributes.
