Sonali Bendre is an Indian actress who primarily works in Hindi and Telugu films. She did modelling assignments prior to making her acting debut with Aag (1994), which won her the Filmfare Award for New Face of the Year. Bendre is a recipient of several accolades, including two Filmfare Awards and four Screen Awards.

The Filmfare Award for Best Female Debut is given by Filmfare as part of its annual Filmfare Awards for Hindi films to recognise a performance by a female actor in their debut role.