Sunny Leone is India's most searched female celebrity in 2017

Her recent outing may not have made a mark at the box office, but that hardly seems to deter the audience's interest in Sunny Leone. She has topped Yahoo's list of India's most searched female celebrity in 2017 for the sixth year in a row. While desi-girl-turned-global-sensation Priyanka Chopra comes second, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Katrina Kaif and Deepika Padukone round off the top five.

Sunny Leone

Understandably, Leone is ecstatic to retain the top position. "I feel blessed this came my way. I have to kee p moving forward. I'm thankful to my fans for this," she says. The year has been largely forgettable for the actor, who appeared in several item numbers including that of Raees, Baadshaho and Bhoomi. For now though, what holds her attention is the Telugu period drama that marks her Tollywood debut. Directed by VC Vadivudaiyan, the yet-untitled film sees her as a warrior. "My character is that of a strong, independent woman. Some are claiming that this will change my image, I do not believe in it. I believe everything is a stepping stone towards something greater."

Priyanka Chopra

While she is yet to strike gold at the box office, Leone is pursuing interests beyond acting too - be it introducing her line of cosmetics or looking into the nitty-gritty of her production house. "I am doing a TV show too [FitStop] and am looking forward to turning producer along with Daniel [Weber, husband] soon."

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan

Katrina Kaif