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Indian Celebrities Who Turned Side Businesses Into Major Empires

1. Shah Rukh Khan – Red Chillies Entertainment & Beyond

Shah Rukh Khan, the “King of Bollywood,” didn’t just settle for box-office glory. He co-founded Red Chillies Entertainment, which produces blockbuster films and offers visual effects services. Beyond movies, SRK owns the Kolkata Knight Riders IPL team, a merchandising business, and has stakes in multiple startups. What started as a film production company has grown into a diversified entertainment and business empire.

2. Amitabh Bachchan – AB Corp & Strategic Investments

The legendary Amitabh Bachchan has always been a household name, but his business ventures are equally impressive. Through AB Corp, he has invested in advertising, media, and hospitality. He also owns stakes in tech startups, fitness chains, and lifestyle brands. Bachchan’s keen eye for business ensures that his ventures complement his public image while generating substantial revenue streams.

3. Deepika Padukone – All About Wellness & Fashion

Deepika Padukone has seamlessly blended glamour with entrepreneurship. She co-owns KAJAL, a production house, and has invested in LiveLoveLaugh Foundation, supporting mental health initiatives. Her foray into fashion includes collaborations with renowned designers and brand endorsements, which, combined with wellness initiatives, have positioned her as a lifestyle mogul beyond acting.

4. Virat Kohli – One8 & Fitness Ventures

Cricket legend Virat Kohli transformed his passion for fitness and sports into a brand. His One8 clothing line, in partnership with Puma, quickly became a lifestyle sensation. Kohli has also invested in gyms, nutrition products, and performance wear, turning his fitness obsession into a profitable ecosystem that resonates with his fan base.

5. Priyanka Chopra Jonas – Purple Pebble Pictures & Global Investments

Priyanka Chopra Jonas has diversified her career across continents, but her entrepreneurial instincts are equally impressive. She founded Purple Pebble Pictures, a production house promoting regional cinema. She has also invested in tech startups, beauty brands, and wellness companies. Chopra’s ventures highlight how celebrity influence, when paired with smart investments, can create a global business footprint.

6. Akshay Kumar – Martial Arts & Production Ventures

Known for his disciplined lifestyle, Akshay Kumar turned his fitness expertise into multiple business avenues. He co-owns Hari Om Entertainment, produces films, and has invested in wellness and martial arts academies. Kumar’s ventures reflect his philosophy: disciplined work, strategic investments, and maintaining a strong personal brand.

7. Kareena Kapoor Khan – Fashion & Lifestyle Brands

Kareena Kapoor Khan has successfully leveraged her style icon status into a growing business portfolio. She collaborates with clothing and beauty brands, promotes maternity and lifestyle products, and invests in wellness initiatives. Her entrepreneurial journey demonstrates how celebrity influence can drive brand loyalty and consumer engagement.

Lessons from Celebrity Entrepreneurs

These celebrities show that fame, when paired with strategic planning and passion, can lead to thriving business empires. Key takeaways include:

Leveraging Personal Brand – Using fame to create a recognizable and trusted business identity.

Diversification – Investing across industries to minimize risks and maximize growth.

Passion Meets Profit – Turning hobbies or personal interests into scalable ventures.

Social Impact – Many celebrities align business ventures with social causes, enhancing credibility and reach.

Indian celebrities are proving that success isn’t confined to a single domain. By turning side projects into substantial business empires, they are not just entertainers—they are visionaries shaping India’s entrepreneurial landscape.

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