Poster of Maa
Credit: Jio Studios
Shefali Shah in Delhi Crime Season 3
Returning as DIG Vartika Chaturvedi, Shefali Shah masterfully evolves one of OTT’s most complex law enforcers. In Season 3, she balances the weight of personal conflict with a relentless pursuit of justice, grounding the gritty narrative in quiet sincerity. Avoiding procedural clichés, Shefali proves yet again why she is the gold standard for police dramas, turning every controlled outburst into a masterclass in acting.
Aaditi Pohankar in Ek Badnaam Aashram S3 (Amazon MX Player)
In Aashram, Aaditi Pohankar delivered a riveting performance as a woman caught in a cult leader’s web. Balancing fear, rage and vulnerability with precision, she made the emotional consequences of blind faith feel strikingly real, earning widespread praise.
Soha Ali Khan in Chhorii 2 (Prime Video)
Soha Ali Khan’s portrayal of Dasi Maa in Chhorii 2 is a masterclass in subtle villainy. She replaces theatricality with emotional realism, portraying a woman driven by a twisted sense of morality and quiet endurance. Her performance anchors the film’s horror with a disturbingly authentic maternal presence.
Kajol in Maa
Kajol’s performance in Maa is a masterclass in emotional ferocity, marking her most intense role to date. As a mother battling both deep-seated grief and ancient mythological terrors, she anchors the film with raw desperation and rage. By centering the horror on her internal psychological collapse rather than just jump scares, Kajol delivers a haunting, visceral experience that redefined her as a powerhouse of the genre.
Surveen Chawla in Mandala Murders (Netflix)
Surveen Chawla emerged as the unexpected core of Mandala Murders, outshining a dense ensemble with her portrayal of a woman driven by both political ambition and ancient ritual. Her performance is a masterclass in quiet power, avoiding clichés to present a multi-layered antagonist whose intellectual curiosity and steely resolve fuelled the show's global success.
Patralekhaa in Phule (Zee5)
As the iconic Savitribai Phule, Patralekhaa delivers a performance defined by poise and unwavering conviction. She honours the legacy of India’s first female teacher through a portrayal rooted in emotional honesty and 'intellectual courage'. It is a standout role that anchors the film, proving that the most powerful historical tributes are often the most understated.