* Prithviraj Kapoor (1906-1972): Considered the "first superstar" by many, he was a dominant force in the 1930s and 40s, known for his strong acting skills and dignified presence. He was a pioneer of theatrical acting in Indian cinema and is considered one of the most influential figures in Hindi cinema history.
* Dilip Kumar (1922-2021): Known as the "Tragedy King," he became a superstar in the 1940s and 50s with his powerful performances in films like "Mughal-e-Azam" (1960) and "Devdas" (1955). He was renowned for his depth of emotion and nuanced acting.
* Raj Kapoor (1924-1988): Popularly known as the "Showman," he emerged as a superstar in the 1950s, known for his charming persona and romantic roles. He also directed and produced several critically acclaimed films.
* Nargis (1929-1981): A leading actress of the 1950s, Nargis was known for her natural acting skills and her strong screen presence. She rose to prominence through films like "Mother India" (1957) and "Awaara" (1951).
It's important to note that all these actors contributed significantly to the development of Hindi cinema and hold a special place in its history. While it's difficult to definitively declare one as the "first superstar," they all played pivotal roles in shaping the industry and captivating audiences for decades.