In an exclusive interview with Vogue, Deepika Padukone, the seasoned Bollywood actress who marked her debut with ‘Om Shanti Om’ in 2007, delves into the persistent issue of nepotism that has long haunted the Indian film industry.
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The Difficult Battle of Entering Frustrated Territory
Reflecting on her journey, Deepika recalls her early days in the modeling world when she received suggestions to relocate to fashion capitals like Paris, New York, or Milan. The luminaries of Indian fashion advised her, “You shouldn’t be here; you belong in Paris or Milan.” However, Deepika stood firm, asserting, “No, those places are not my home. India is home.”
A Global Effect Derived from Soil at Home
Despite opportunities to shift her base overseas, Deepika expresses a steadfast commitment to her roots. She questions the necessity of a physical move, stating, “Why do I need to move with bag and baggage to have a global impact?” Her unwavering dedication to making a difference on the global stage while staying connected to her cultural roots is evident.
Handling Insecurities: An Upfront Challenge
Acknowledging the hurdles of being an outsider in an industry that often favors star kids, Deepika sheds light on the ‘insecurities’ she had to confront. “I had no choice,” she admits. Two decades ago, when she entered the industry, being an outsider left her with limited options. “It’s an uphill task for any individual trying to make a mark in a field or profession that their parents don’t come from,” she emphasizes. The discourse on nepotism may be a contemporary trend, but for Deepika, it was a reality she confronted then and continues to observe in the industry today.
An Overview of the Initial Challenges
Looking back, Deepika reminisces about the multifaceted challenges she faced as a teenager navigating a new city and industry without the support of family or friends. From arranging meals to transportation and carrying her own bags, the actress had to tackle it all. However, she never perceived these challenges as burdens at that time.
The Journey’s Summary: A Awesome that
During those challenging times, Deepika often found solace in sleep during her rides back home, causing concern for her mother. Yet, as she reflects on those days, she commends herself, saying, “Not bad, girl! You did this, and you did it on your own.”
Deepika Padukone Ongoing Professional Endeavors
Shifting the focus to her current projects, Deepika Padukone is set to dazzle the audience in ‘Fighter’ alongside Hrithik Roshan and Anil Kapoor. Her last special appearance in ‘Jawan’ with Shah Rukh Khan proved to be a massive hit, showcasing her enduring popularity in the industry.
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In conclusion, Deepika Padukone’s journey serves as an inspiration for aspiring individuals battling against the odds. Her resilience, determination, and commitment to staying true to herself while navigating the intricacies of the entertainment industry stand as a testament to her indomitable spirit.
Q1: When did Deepika Padukone make her Bollywood debut?
A1: Deepika Padukone made her Bollywood debut in 2007 with the film ‘Om Shanti Om.’
Q2: What insights did Deepika share about dealing with nepotism in Bollywood?
A2: Deepika candidly spoke about the challenges of being an outsider in the industry, emphasizing that nepotism existed when she started and continues to be a prevalent aspect today.
Q3: Were there suggestions for Deepika to move overseas during her modeling career?
A3: Yes, during her early modeling days, Deepika received advice to relocate to fashion capitals like Paris, New York, or Milan. However, she chose to stay rooted in India.
Q4: Is Deepika considering a shift to the West for a global impact?
A4: No, Deepika Padukone expressed her commitment to making a global impact while remaining in India, questioning the need for a physical move to achieve this.
Q5: How did Deepika deal with insecurities during the initial phase of her career?
A5: Deepika acknowledged the insecurities that come with being an outsider and emphasized that, at the time, there were limited options. She faced the challenges head-on as a part of her reality.