They have age on their side and between them generated enough headlines to make people sit up and take notice. In a year dominated by the Khans and big banner projects, these women held their own, on screen and off it too.

Kangana Ranaut

With no godfather or any sort of influence in the industry Kangana Ranaut has come a long way after her debut in the critically acclaimed Gangster. Barring Shakalaka Boom Boom, which was a complete disaster, her performance in Woh Lamhe again won her critical acclaim. She does have a penchant for self destructive and suicidal characters but there's no denying that this babe certainly has what it takes to be the best. And after the recent success of Fashion, a lot is expected of her this year.

Up Next: Kites starring Hrithik Roshan, Barbara Mori, Bruna Abdullah and Luce Rains, Raaz - The Mystery Continues, with Emraan Hashmi and Adhyayan Suman.