Chetak Screen Awards 2026: Top Breakthrough Female Nominees

New Delhi, March 31, 2026: The Chetak Screen Awards 2026 are set to return with a grand celebration of cinematic excellence on April 5 in Mumbai. While the industry’s heavyweights battle it out in the lead categories, all eyes are on the Breakthrough New Actor (Female) category. This year’s nominees represent a refreshing shift in Indian cinema, featuring a blend of star kids making their mark, seasoned child actors transitioning into adult roles, and indie darlings who have captured the hearts of critics.

Here is a closer look at the talented women nominated for the Breakthrough New Actor (Female) award this year.

1. Rasha Thadani – Azaad

The daughter of actress Raveena Tandon, Rasha Thadani has been one of the most talked-about debuts of the year. Nominated for her performance in the film Azaad, Rasha has managed to step out of the “nepo-baby” shadow by delivering a grounded and emotionally resonant performance. Her ability to hold the screen in a high-stakes drama suggests a promising future in the industry.

2. Sara Arjun – Dhurandhar

Sara Arjun is a name many will recognize as one of the most prolific child actors in Indian cinema (notably from Deiva Thirumagal and Ponniyin Selvan). In Dhurandhar, she makes her formal leap into lead “breakthrough” territory. Her performance in this massive production—which leads the overall nominations with 24 nods—showcases a maturity that only years of being in front of the camera can provide.

3. Ridhima Singh – Humans in the Loop

Perhaps the most “breakthrough” story of the lot, Ridhima Singh is the face of the indie sensation Humans in the Loop. The film, which follows a tribal data labeler working at an AI center, has become the underdog story of 2026. Ridhima’s performance has been described as “hauntingly realistic,” proving that she can carry a complex, socially relevant narrative with ease.

4. Aneet Padda – Saiyaara

Introduced by director Mohit Suri in the romantic musical saga Saiyaara, Aneet Padda has quickly become a fan favorite. In a film genre known for its high emotional frequency and chart-busting music, Aneet held her own with a charm that felt both classic and contemporary. Her nomination highlights her successful transition into the mainstream spotlight.

5. Shubhangi Dutt – Tanvi the Great

Rounding out the list is Shubhangi Dutt for her role in Tanvi the Great. Her performance brought a layer of nuance to the film, earning her critical acclaim for her screen presence and timing. Being nominated in such a competitive year cements her status as one of the most exciting new faces to watch in the coming seasons.

The Road to the Trophy

The Chetak Screen Awards have long been regarded as one of India’s most credible honors, often prioritizing performance over box-office numbers. This year’s Breakthrough category is particularly tight, reflecting a year where “content is king” and new talent is being given the platform to shine alongside veterans.

Event Details:

• Date: April 5, 2026
• Location: Mumbai
• Where to Watch: Live on Sony Entertainment Television, Sony LIV, and the Screen Awards YouTube channel starting at 8:00 PM IST.
• Hosts: The evening will be hosted by a powerhouse lineup including Alia Bhatt, Farah Khan, Sunil Grover, and Zakir Khan.

With such a diverse group of nominees—from the high-octane drama of Dhurandhar to the poignant realism of Humans in the Loop—the 2026 Breakthrough New Actor (Female) award is truly anyone’s game.