Leading lady Rani Mukherjee is the girl who wasn’t supposed to get ahead, accepting dud roles other actresses wouldn’t touch, and plagued with the wrong voice — a low, hoarse growl, in an industry where women are supposed to chirp rather than purr.

But she confounded early critics with the blockbuster 'Kuch Kuch Hota Hai', which broke all box-office records and rocketed Rani to number one status.

In the absence of any real scandal to satisfy the gossipmongers, Indian media has speculated on possible rivalry between her and successful cousin Kajol, and a rumoured affair between her and “good friend” Govinda, who has co-starred with her many times. Whispers abound that Govinda’s wife is distraught about the alleged relationship, and if the journalists are to be believed, he and Rani are always ducking off for secret getaways.

Rani has nevertheless won acclaim for her professional conduct and acting ability, in films such as 'Chalte Chalte' and 'Saathiya'.

Born March 21, 1978, the young actress is practically Bollywood aristocracy. Her grandfather founded Filmalaya, the most famous studio in India, and her father is a film producer, reports Bollywhat.com. All of which makes her early struggle more surprising.

Whatever the reasons, Rani’s popularity is now unquestioned and her star is set to rise even further.