Deepika Padukone stresses the importance of setting a routine amid the Coronavirus lockdown, to address mental well-being
Sonia Lulla (MID-DAY; April 1, 2020)

Be it with a picture of her cleaning out her closet, taking to an enhanced skin-cleansing routine, or a more recent post of her chalking out her weekend travel plan as she 'jets off' to her living room from her kitchen, Deepika Padukone is employing humour to keep her fans entertained when in isolation. But the severity of the current scenario that the country finds itself in is not lost on the actor. With limited discussion on how individuals can address their mental well-being while being quarantined and fed a barrage of disquieting news, Padukone advises individuals to "follow a routine".

"The most basic thing [that people can do] is to follow a routine. A lot of anxiety develops due to uncertainty; not knowing what is to come in the future. It is important to focus on the now, and one way to achieve that is by setting daily, and weekly targets. Let's not avoid formulating a routine just because there's a curfew. Some people can cope with it. But, for most people, getting into a routine, like going to bed and waking up at a defined time, and setting up a dedicated work space and holding virtual [meetings], is important. Set a system and [become] disciplined," the actor tells mid-day, adding that should individuals be hit by a severe bout of anxiety, professional help must be sought. "Reaching out to a mental health professional is the best thing to do. Not only will you have someone to talk to, but also, the person [is best suited to aid you since he] will be a professional expert."

Sprinkling her social media news feeds with glimpses of her exercise regimen, Padukone admits that when home-bound, she looks forward to her training routine. Long before she realised she was battling depression, she was well aware that her mental and physical well-being went hand in hand. "When I was young, and an athlete, I understood that I felt good [when I trained]. I always felt that correlation. Being physically active has a big role to play in my emotional well-being." Her routine, she admits, has undergone several iterations over the years. "I am not one who likes to do the same thing. A few years ago, I took to yoga, and then pilates. I didn't enjoy running, so in the last couple of years, I have been wanting to overcome that [fear], and have hence taken to it now."

The physical requirements of the characters she is set to play in films also alters her workout formats. But, caught in a situation when she is unable to get her daily dose of endorphins through training, Padukone follows a two-step process. "I'll find ways to be more physically active in the day, like perhaps take a flight of stairs at the airport instead of using the elevator. Also, I will watch what I eat. The biggest mistake one can make is not be physically active, and then eat everything that's in sight. That is recipe for disaster. If I am working out regularly, I eat anything I want to. But, if I am unable to exercise, I watch what I eat. This has nothing to do with vanity, or the way I look. It has to do with the way I feel."

Ask the actor what measures she takes when she fears for her mental health, and she says, "I believe in the basics, [which is getting] adequate nutrition, sleep, exercise and hydration. This works for me." Battling depression in the past has made her more intuitive and aware of her emotional state, she admits. "That's why I call it my love-hate relationship with the illness."

Her five-year old mental health foundation was among the first introduced by a Bollywood celebrity, and Padukone says that despite the innumerable people they've served, she still finds the reactions she gets from users on a day to day basis, as the most "gratifying" experience. "When, on a regular basis, we have people tell us that a tweet, or an interview made a difference to them, or we see someone recover or return from the brink, by following our advice, it is gratifying."

Four Tips By Padukone To Stay Healthy In Isolation

1. Set a routine, which includes sleeping and waking up at a defined time

2. Set daily and weekly targets

3. Take to an exercise regimen, and watch the diet

4. Get adequate amount of sleep and hydration

For Deepika Padukone, what’s great about a festival like Holi, is that it brings together people, families and communities; says the main idea of festivals for her is to ‘spend quality time’ with her loved ones
Prashant Singh (HINDUSTAN TIMES; March 9, 2020)

She grew up in Bengaluru, Karnataka, where — as she puts it — the Holi fervour isn’t as much as in other parts of the country. But that never stopped Deepika Padukone from adding her share of colours to the festival along with her friends and family. Even now, she seems visibly delighted about “spending quality time” with her near-and-dear ones on such special days. “The mythology part of our festivals is obvious but what’s amazing is that festivals — be it Holi, Diwali or Ganesh Chaturthi — bring together people, families and communities. Also, I really appreciate the fact that these festivals have been going on for generations, and we still continue that tradition,” she says. Excerpts from an exclusive interview:

To start with, would you call yourself a Holi person?
The culture in south India has been slightly different. So, I remember while I was growing up, it wasn’t celebrated as much as it’s celebrated in other parts of India, especially the North. In the South, it [the celebrations] was never that much but I don’t know if things have changed now. In other parts of the country, even walking on the streets can be dangerous on Holi as anyone can randomly throw colours and eggs at you (smiles).

For you, what’s the most fascinating thing about the festival of colours?
It is the festival of colour but for me, in a way, it’s also a festival of light as my memory of it has been that it’s a ‘day time festival’. So, in my mind, the Holi day is always very bright and sunny along with a lot of colour, joy and cheer. That’s what I really appreciate a lot about the Indian culture that every few months, there’s a festival which sort of brings the entire community together, irrespective of what’s going on in the world. In that particular moment, you just forget about everything else and celebrate.

Do you have any special memories of Holi from your childhood?
For starters, it calls for great family time. One of the things we all always got [on Holi] was a public holiday. So, there was no school, and since I grew up in an apartment [in Bengaluru], I had a lot of friends. I remember all of us getting together to play Holi. Since I am someone who has always been particular about being ‘clean’, I had to be prepared much in advance that, ‘Holi aa rahi hai, so I’ve to keep aside an old set of clothes etc’. At that time, there were no organic colours; so it was all about hard colours which didn’t come off for weeks.

So, you would have unstinted fun?
Yes, but since I was in school, I would also be worried as to how much Holi I can play as schools had their strict rules. In that moment though, you don’t think about those things. But I remember my parents telling me to apply a lot of oil on my face, hair and skin so that colours don’t get into the skin a lot, and could come off easily later. And there was no way we could roam around after playing Holi, as we were supposed to head straight into the shower so as to not mess up the house.

Now, that you are married [to actor Ranveer Singh], have things changed vis-à-vis Holi celebrations in particular, or festivals in general?
Not really! We both have always celebrated festivals. So, as much as possible, we try and be in the city, with family. We did the same even before marriage. So, nothing has changed as such, apart from the fact that earlier, the main celebration would take place in my house. Now, we [Ranveer and I] do a small pooja in our house and then we go to our in-laws’ home where everyone is together. So, it’s a bigger celebration. If our respective parents can be together [on that day], then that’s the best thing. Otherwise, my in-laws are here so a part of the family is always around (smiles). We don’t do anything very elaborate. For us, the main idea of festivals or holidays is to spend quality time together.

What’s your idea of Holi? Has it changed over the years?
For me, Holi stands for a celebration of happiness, togetherness, and good food (smiles). And it’s great that such festivals are a really intrinsic as well as rich part of our culture. I feel that’s the beauty of our Indian culture and tradition. When we [actors] are [shooting] outdoors and miss out on celebrating a festival with the family, we, of course, try and celebrate in our own way with the unit but from the inside, you miss being in your city and with your family.

For you, what’s the best thing about the festival of colours?
I think it’s the feeling of sheer abandon. The other Indian festivals are more ritualistic, whereas Holi, according to me, is one festival where there’s a lot of abandon. And that’s what sets it apart from all the other festivals.

Is there anything that you don’t like much about it?
Eggs, I feel, is a bit too much (smiles). And I’ve an interesting story about eggs, my mum and Holi. She will be very upset that I have revealed the story but I have to (laughs). This is from before I had moved to Mumbai, and I was just about starting my modelling career. I had come to the city for a day with mum for an audition for a soap brand. After I finished my audition in the morning, we decided to go to meet my granddad, who lives at Peddar Road. From suburbs, we took a taxi and once we reached, mum said, ‘since it is Holi, let’s not take a chance. Let’s not get down [across the road from the building] and walk on foot to cross the road. Instead, we can take a U-turn’.

Then, what happened?
I was like, ‘mum, it doesn’t make any sense. The roads are empty, and so we can cross it walking’. And while we were crossing the road, a group of boys threw eggs at us, which hit my mum. Later, she said, ‘I think they were trying to aim at you but eggs hit me instead’. Since that day, my favourite Holi memory is that (laughs). We didn’t even have a spare set of clothes as it was just a day trip. The whole day, she smelt of eggs as it went into her hair also. I think she will never forgive me for that. But I guess it’s all in the spirit of Holi. I do not see people letting go of so much during any other festival.

Do you have any special plan for this year’s Holi?
It’s the same; nothing special. Ranveer [Singh; husband] called me up a couple of days back in the evening, and the first thing he asked me was if I am working [on the Holi day]. Sometimes, it’s [working on Holi] really unavoidable. But as much as possible, we try and be with each other on festivals. Since no one else works on that day, it’s a great day to spend time with one another. Also, I’ll leave for my outdoors [for director Shakun Batra’s yet-untitled next] soon, for about a month or month-and-a-half, to Sri Lanka. So, Holi gives me an opportunity to spend quality time with my family before I go.

Work-wise, how are things looking?
I am starting Shakun’s [Batra] film next. In fact, I will leave for its Sri Lanka schedule next week itself. That’s why I am looking forward to Holi a little more because it’s that day when I will get to spend some time with everyone before all the hectic travelling, shooting etc. starts. My other film, The Intern adaptation, in all likelihood, will go into production in the beginning of 2021, around January. However, I am looking at doing something else too, in the second half of this year.
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A colourful, reel stint with Holi!

“It started with Balam Pichkari (from Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani; 2013) and, of course, there’s also Lahoo Mooh Lag Gaya (from Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela; 2013). If I may say, Balam Pichkari is like Rang Barse (Silsila; 1981) of our generation. Nowadays, every Holi party starts with Rang Barse, and the second song has to be Balam Pichkari. So, it’s become a new-age Holi anthem. It feels nice to have been part of such an iconic song. On the other hand, Lahoo Mooh Lag Gaya is a very different kind of Holi song — very Sanjay Leela Bhansali-ish and extremely sensual. For me, the fascination was that though we see Holi in it with a full-on celebration, his interpretation and the way he showed Holi was in stark contrast to the way we know the festival, or the way we play it.”

Rishabh Suri (HINDUSTAN TIMES; February 29, 2020)

In her 13 years in Bollywood, right from Om Shanti Om (2007) to Padmaavat (2018), Deepika Padukone’s choice of films has reflected her clarity of mind. The 34-year-old takes her time, often pausing while answering questions, but one can rest assured that she won’t mince any words. With a busy 2020 ahead, including a remake of Hollywood film, The Intern (2015), which she’s also producing, and a yet-untitled Shakun Batra film, the actor talks to us about Bollywood’s evolution. Excerpts:

A lot has changed since you made your debut — especially with more female-fronted films being made, and female actors turning producers. Is the difference very stark now?
It is... But my very first film, Om Shanti Om, was with a female director (Farah Khan). We have come a long way, at least in terms of the roles being written for women. Also, there are more female technicians. I think that’s also a function of women now being more comfortable with choosing this as a profession. More women want to be independent… and then there’s the broadening of the understanding of the film industry. There was a lot of stigma earlier as far as the film industry was concerned, specifically regarding women. There were all kinds of perceptions about the safety of women in this field. A lot of things have evolved and changed. Women are confident of following their hearts. I know so many women who have given up big corporate jobs to become writers and work in creative fields. There’s a lot more open-mindedness today. The kind of roles, even from an actor’s perspective… the roles I am being offered today vis-à-vis 10 years ago, definitely things have changed.

At a press conference recently, you were told ‘Ranveer sir bhi ek tarah se producer hain kyunki ghar ka paisa laga hua hai’, implying that the films you produce are then your ‘home productions’. You had to clarify ‘Mere khud ke paise hain’.
I do understand there are several things to it — one is to, at an event like that, look for a sensational headline. The other thing is the deep-rooted understanding that a woman can be, or rather cannot be financially independent! Or a woman is always dependent on her male, whether it’s her father, partner or husband! To be able to do certain jobs that for years we have always understood or assumed only a man can do… I think there were multiple layers to that question. There is that thing of maybe their own understanding, maybe of the fact that women cannot be financially independent. Without meaning it, it ended up being a very layered question.

You are doing the remake of a Hollywood film. But after xXx: The Return of Xander Cage (2017)  you didn’t take up films in the West. Are you looking for more Hollywood projects?
I don’t look or evaluate films as Indian or international, but as a medium where I can express myself. If that opportunity is out of India, great. If that is out of the United States or another part of the world, I am happy to explore that too. For me, it’s always been content. I did Xander Cage because it was an extremely powerful, strong character to play. Eventually, it’s about the character and role, and of course, the film. It’s not like I’m actively seeking something in Hollywood. Whether India or any other part in the world, great content is what I seek.

There are rumours that you are going to star in Krrish 4?
That’s news to me! I haven’t heard that one before. Having said that, Hrithik (Roshan) is amazing and talented. As an actor, I would want to collaborate with him.

Deepika Padukone says she’s drawn to the larger narrative of a film rather than her role
Rishabh Suri (HINDUSTAN TIMES; February 7, 2020)

Very few actors have managed to carve out a career like Deepika Padukone has. In a span of 13 years, she’s made her way to the top. But what makes her stand out is that she’s a producer, too, who’s backing films that aren’t run-of-the-mill. We caught up with the 34-year-old actor to talk about her upcoming films. Excerpts:

After a few emotionally and physically draining films, you return to the light-hearted zone with Shakun Batra’s next. Was it a much-needed breather?
To be honest, you can’t call Shakun’s film ‘light’ either... Although, the overall tonality of the film is a bit lighter than my last film, in terms of the emotional turmoil my character goes through, it’s still challenging. The genre of the film is something we haven’t seen much in Indian cinema. It’s called domestic noir. I don’t think that’s a genre we’re very familiar with, but at the same time, the audience is ready for it, as we have been exposed to it through Hollywood films or OTT platforms. Shakun has this strong point with people and relationships. As an audience/ actor I have enjoyed watching and performing these sort of films, whether it’s Piku (2015) or Tamasha (2015) or Love Aaj Kal (2009) — films that deal with intricate human relationships.

A common thing in many of your films is you always play the titular role, right from Ram Leela (2013), to your upcoming film Draupadi. Has it been a conscious choice?
No! These films find me, I don’t go looking for them. Neither is it a criteria when I choose films. I look at it as a story. I don’t actively seek these parts. I need to be drawn to the larger narrative first, before I even think what my contribution to a film can be. I guess it’s just organic that they are happening.

You’ve announced your next production, a Hindi remake of The Intern (2015). What made you go for this official adaptation?
When I saw the original, it came across as something that’ll be endearing, light-hearted and relatable. The theme of the film is universal. India is one of the youngest countries in the world. With the youth, the way people work today, our ideologies… we are very different from the older generation. This movie threw light on how this slightly older person comes into our life. In our culture, we have it in a different way. We have had uncles, aunties, grandparents who give you that old-world grounding and rooting we all need as we progress in this new age world. And we have this elderly person who has this knowledge and experience, but he is not being able to keep up with the digital age. It’s a beautiful, relevant story between two generations.

You recently featured in the global campaign of an international luxury brand. Was there pressure since you represented India?
I didn’t think of it like that. The brand would be better equipped to answer why they thought of me. It’s not only exciting, but an absolute privilege as these opportunities don’t present themselves very often. I appreciate the fact that somewhere in my journey of authenticity and honesty, I am being able to collaborate with iconic brands.

Roshni Olivera (BOMBAY TIMES; January 8, 2020)

It’s been an eventful decade for Deepika Padukone. She has had a number of successful films to her credit, made her foray into Hollywood opposite Vin Diesel in xXx: Return of Xander Cage (2017) and turned producer. On the personal front, too, she is in a happy space and seems a lot more comfortable revealing her quirky side to the world. The new year has begun on a busy note for the actress with her film, Chhapaak, directed by Meghna Gulzar, set to release in a couple of days. In a chat with BT, she talks about playing Malti, her most emotionally challenging role till date, how she has evolved as a person over the years and why she wants to do a contemporary, light-hearted film with husband Ranveer Singh. Excerpts...

You have experienced a range of emotions from the time you started shooting for Chhapaak, to the promotions recently, when you broke down on stage. How would you describe this emotional roller-coaster ride?
This has been my most challenging film, emotionally. There was a lot of preparation before we began shooting — look tests, working on the prosthetics, costumes and readings with co-actors and Meghna. I also spent time with Laxmi (Agarwal, the acid attack survivor, who is the inspiration behind her character). But, for a film of this nature, you can never be fully prepared. How do I prepare myself for that moment when acid is thrown on my face? I can imagine that it happened in a certain way, but I can only live it between ‘action’ and ‘cut’. I have had many of those moments of highs and lows, which took a toll on my mental health as well.

How did you cope with that?
I remember on the second day of shoot, I had a panic attack. We were doing the prosthetics when I had the attack because I’m claustrophobic. I broke into a sweat and could feel the blood rushing through my feet, and I remember saying to myself, ‘I can’t do this’. Throughout the film, I was breathing through one nostril because of the prosthetics. I couldn’t eat properly because I couldn’t open my mouth completely. And then, there was the emotional journey. Having said that, I was willing to go through it all because this was a story we had to tell. That was more important than what I had to live with for a few hours every day. Whenever I felt low or vulnerable, I would think about Laxmi and the other survivors, who have been through so much, and that would help me pull through the day.

Meghna has said that you were her only choice for this role...
When a director says that he/she would not have made a film without a particular actor, there is no bigger compliment for that actor. Often in Indian cinema, we make films with roles that are replaceable. Isko nahin toh usko lo, usko nahin to kisi aur ko lo. I’m glad that today, we are getting to a point where films are written in a certain way, where characters are so special that either you make it with a cast that you have in mind or you don’t make it at all. When Meghna narrated this script to to me, I was instantly drawn to the subject. What I was also drawn to was her honesty. I could see her sincerity, sensitivity and a great sense of responsibility. I had seen all of these things in her movie, Talvar (2015). It was incredible the way that movie was made — it was such a fragile topic and it was made at a time when the people on whom the film was based were still in custody. Films like these engage you, make a point, and at the same time, are entertaining. It’s difficult to find a director who can strike that balance.

What is your biggest takeaway from your interaction with Laxmi?
I admire her spirit. Also, her ability to articulate her thoughts and feelings. She is honest, candid, confident and has a great sense of humour. She has beautiful hair, too.

Often, the punishment given in an acid attack case is far less compared to the gravity of the crime. Procuring acid is also easy in our country. Do you hope that your film will initiate a major debate that will address these issues?
I hope the film resonates with people at multiple levels, whether it’s pertaining to the legal system, the sale of acid or how we look at women who’ve suffered an acid attack. We tend to treat the survivors as disabled; they don’t have any disability and it’s important for us as a society to recognise that.

Now that you have turned producer with this film, do you look at things differently? As an actor, you must have had a different perspective...
Actually, I have had a couple of people tell me in the past that I would make a good producer. Dinesh Vijan (filmmaker) was the first person to tell me that. He would say, ‘Deepu, one day we will become partners and I’ll make a cabin for you in my office’. At that point, I didn’t think I would produce a film someday. But now when I look back, I remember how during Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani (2013), I would ask Karan Johar (producer) why he was giving Ayan Mukerji (director) so much liberty with the budget and why he was allowing him to do recce at different places. I think somewhere, I was always interested in what goes on behind the scenes as much as what happens in front of the camera.

Would you agree that when actresses start doing author-backed roles, they end up getting slotted, and are not offered other kind of roles?
Yes, it’s totally possible, so it all depends on the choices one makes. Like the next film I’m doing is a romantic thriller, which is very different from what I have done so far. I have been offered many sports biopics, too, but I haven’t decided on that, yet.

It has been a year since Ranveer and you tied the knot. What are the changes that you see in Ranveer and in yourself? In fact, he recently said that he has become a good boy now, he wakes up early and gets back home on time...
He’s not there yet, but he does try! We have both rubbed off on each other in different ways. I’d like to believe that I have brought in a little more professionalism and discipline into his life. I think he would like to believe that he has brought out the quirky side of me, though I think I have always been like that, it’s just that people saw it in spurts. There is an extremely goofy and funny side to me, which only close friends got to see earlier. Now, when I sometimes show that side of my personality to others, people feel that he has rubbed off on me, which is also a great thing. Ranveer and I support and encourage each other... especially his dressing sense! In a way, there are not many changes from the time we were dating, except that now, we come home to each other. Professionally, we make our own decisions and personally, we decide everything together. For us, it’s been important from the beginning that we retain our own identities. People around us often forget that we are married, which I think is a good thing. Ranveer and I are together and at the same time, we are our own people.

You probably always had that quirky side to you, but the general perception is that you have opened up more post marriage...
Maybe I’m showing it a lot more now. If you ever speak to my school friends, they will tell you that I was a brat. My mother will tell you how, as a child, I was never at ground level; I was always jumping or climbing somewhere. There is a boisterous side to me, which, in all of my so-called elegance, people missed seeing.

Like some of your contemporaries who got married, do you also face questions about when you plan to start a family?
No! I have not been asked this question ever, which is refreshing.

What about doing more movies with Ranveer? There was buzz that you’ve turned down three films together..
There is no truth to that at all.

The reports said that the two of you didn’t want to get over-exposed as a couple...
We don’t think like that at all. We would rather think whether a film warrants the two of us to come together. Again, that’s not a decision for us to make, it’s for the director to decide. We have not been offered anything like that together, though it was refreshing to work with him in ‘83 after having worked in three films, where we die in the end! I hope we get to do more films, maybe something more contemporary and lighter. It’ll be nice for someone to explore our on-screen combination in a different way from what everyone has seen so far.

We’ve just entered a new decade. How do you look back at the decade that’s gone by, a period which was fabulous for you professionally?
I feel gratitude. Nothing fell into my lap, I have worked hard to reach where I am, and to be a part of the kind of films that I get to do today. I want to constantly learn, grow and evolve. I also used the criticism that came my way, constructively. And, I am thankful for the goodwill and support that I got.

Do you feel that you have grown as a person, too?
Yes. I don’t think I was the same person even seven years ago. Every film, every experience, every success, failure, criticism and praise has led me to where I am today. It allows me to grow further, think, express and take risks.

On the personal front, we recently saw a beautiful picture that you posted of Ranveer and you with your Christmas tree. Did you decorate it yourself?
Absolutely. I love doing up my house and if there’s one thing that Ranveer loves about me, it is that I am house-proud. He is always trying to wrap his head around how I manage to multitask at work and I’m still able to put up a Christmas tree, set up the table and put up the wreath. I have always been like this. My mother says that she doesn’t entertain guests anymore because I am not around to help her.

Actor Deepika Padukone likes to keep her special day simple and personal
Juhi Chakraborty (HINDUSTAN TIMES; January 5, 2020)

It seems to be a great time for Deepika Padukone. The actor is not just celebrating her 34th birthday today but is also awaiting the release of a special film, Chhapaak, in which she essays the role of an acid attack survivor. The movie also marks her debut as a producer. In an interview, the actor shares that she is not a big birthday person, but she does not mind the frills which come with the occasion including gifts and good wishes. Excerpts.

Your film is releasing on the heels of your birthday, so it is indeed a very exciting time for you.
I have been looking forward to this time. The birthday is all the more special because such a great moment is coming up. The fact that we are telling such a special story and the movie is up for release. There is so much love and goodwill. I think with all of those things, the birthday is the perfect icing on the cake.

How do you plan to spend the day?
I will be in Lucknow to celebrate the day at a cafe run by acid attack survivors. I will be with them for a day. I have spent a considerable amount of time with many of them during the making of the film. So it was important for me to be with them on my special day. I am looking forward to it.

Are you a birthday person?
I am not a very fussy birthday person. I like to keep it intimate and simple. I am more of a quiet person. I don’t understand the whole fuss around birthdays. But if something happens (celebrations) I am game for that. And it is fun to receive gifts if I may say and all the love and good wishes that come my way.

Birthdays always mean that the person is a year older. How do you look at it?
Not at all. I don’t mark my birthdays in my head. Even when it comes to resolutions, I don’t wait for a birthday or the New Year to make them. If I want to do something, accomplish something, I will put my mind to it and do it. I am someone who neither thinks about age nor how old I am going to be. A lot of people crib that ‘oh my God, I am going to be a year older’. Not me. I just think of it as a year of evolving, growing, and constantly learning.

Do you recall any special surprise by your husband Ranveer Singh?
He always makes sure to do something special. He gives me something special. He has always gone out of his way to make it memorable for me. But more than that, whether it is my birthday or his birthday, we make sure that we spend quality time with each other.

What’s your birthday wish this year?
To be honest, I would always say peace of mind. Because you can have everything in the world whether material or otherwise but if you don’t have peace of mind then you are just not present as a human being. On the professional front, I will wish that secretly and put it out there in the universe.

Deepika Padukone on her foray into filmmaking, fielding for a film with Hrithik Roshan and why she wants to do a young film with Ranveer Singh
Ankita Chaurasia (MUMBAI MIRROR; December 27, 2019)

After playing central turns in two period films, Deepika Padukone is returning to the contemporary realm of the big screen with her first home production, the Meghna Gulzar-directed Chhapaak. Point out that the director has previously said that the film is an attempt to fuel discourse on acid attacks, a topic that’s rarely a part of public consciousness, and she says, “It is a story of hope which has been told in an entertaining manner. We crib about everything, often forgetting to be grate things. Despite what has thrown their way Laxmi (Agarwal, the inspiration behind Deepika’s Malti in the film) and other acid attack survivors, who could have given up on their lives, lead a spirited existence.”

It wasn’t an easy portrayal for her, Deepika says, adding that it took a toll on her despite extensive physical and emotional prep. “I had to live out the reality of the attack and witness what it felt like to have your life altered so drastically. I had to go through it without having to go through it,” she points out, adding that the story follows the character’s journey from bitterness to acceptance and finally, forgiveness.

The actress goes on to relay Laxmi’s thoughts on her attacker now. “She says, ‘He probably thought he could end my life, kill my dreams and aspirations by disfiguring my face. But nobody can take away my mind. I wonder how he feels now that Deepika Padukone is doing a film on me. He wanted to end my life with the acid attack, but my life began then’.” When asked if she was cautioned about the intense nature of the film, the actress explains that counsellors don’t anticipate problems. “But as soon as I felt I was spiralling, I called mine. She was with me throughout the shoot.”

In the film, Alok (played by Vikrant Massey) is constantly by Malti’s side. Deepika asserts that it is men like him, Ranveer (Singh, actor-husband) and Govind (Sandhu, Meghna’s husband) who make her believe that good men exist. “Because they are confident about themselves, they are confident about their spouses. They don’t mind their women being at the forefront,” she reasons, going on to share that she recently called up Ranveer to thank him. “I’d had a long day, but I didn’t feel anxious about whether he would be upset about me coming home late or because I hadn’t called. I have been in relationships where I didn’t have that. When you don’t have to worry about such things, it allows you to focus on work.”

She goes on to reveal that Ranveer also doubles up as her bodyguard. “After watching the Chhapaak trailer, he recalled the time when we were promoting Goliyon Ki Raasleela… Ram Leela in Jaipur and there was a person, dressed exactly like Shah Rukh Khan, who jumped out of the crowd at me. I had forgotten all about it, but he remembered,” she shudders.

The couple will be soon seen in their first film together since their wedding, Kabir Khan’s ’83. “It is our lightest film together yet. On set, you are not husband and wife or girlfriend and boyfriend, you are actors. This film was so different,” she says, noting that after period films, it feels like she and Ranveer are wearing crowns all the time. “It will be good to be just a boy and a girl in a young, fresh film,” she says wistfully.

A film with Hrithik Roshan is also on her wish-list; she famously swooned over the 45-year-old actor in a social media post recently. A recent viewing of Hrithik’s last release War turned into a fan-fest, when, Deepika admits, they would periodically hit pause on the film to marvel, “Kya naachta hai, kya dikhta hai!” “It’s amazing how my husband and I can sit together and appreciate a guy. That video of him (Hrithik) feeding me cake was a wake-up call for filmmakers to cast us together,” she chuckles.

On her foray into production, Deepika informs that producer Dinesh Vijan was the first person to say that she’d make a good producer. “We used to joke that I was his retirement plan and would have a cabin in his newly renovated office. Now he must be having the last laugh,” she smiles. And Karan Johar reiterated it after watching her take interest in expenses during the making of Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani. “I thought Ayan (Mukerji, director) was being indulgent. How does it matter where Bunny (Ranbir Kapoor’s protagonist) is globetrotting? He could be in Africa, Goa or even Juhu beach. Why are extensive recces required? Karan was like, ‘I don’t have a problem spending so much money, why do you care?’ He was taunting me when he said I’ll make a good producer,” she laughs.

Next up, she is producing a version of the Mahabharata from Draupadi’s point of view. When asked if it will be a love story or in the mythological space, she says, “It can be anything. It is not so much about the female perspective as it is about a different perspective. We can only think of that when a director comes on board.” And has she found her superheroine yet? “I am wearing red today, should I just fly away now?” she wonders, adding, “The character has to be homegrown. A huge advantage we have over the West is that our characters have depth, cultural influence; they are layered, nuanced, rooted.”

She was on a break after the 2018 release, Padmaavat, and insists that it was important to creatively nurture herself. “We get into the rut of churning one film after the other. Over the last year, I have only spent time with writers and directors and books.”

Then, there was the wedding in November last year. “Setting up a home, learning to live with each other and becoming a part of the family everything is important. When I moved from Bangalore to Mumbai, I had no friends and my work became my life. But it helped me realise that you have to get used to living with yourself.”

The actor says that if she doesn’t feel butterflies in her stomach after hearing a narration, she doesn’t do the project
Juhi Chakraborty (HINDUSTAN TIMES; December 4, 2019)

She got a dream launch in Bollywood in 2007 with Farah Khan’s Om Shanti Om in which she had Shah Rukh Khan as her co-star. And from then on, Deepika Padukone has been making all the right noises with her film choices.

With films such as Bachna Ae Haseeno (2008), Housefull (2010), Desi Boyz (2011), Race 2 (2013), Finding Fanny (2014), Piku (2015), Bajirao Mastani (2015), Padmaavat (2018), her filmography is clearly a mix of potboilers, slice-of-life films, and historical dramas. She has even starred in a Hollywood film xXx: Return of Xander Cage (2017).

Has there been any change in the way she picks a film now? “No, not at all. I am choosing my projects the same way I did 10 years ago. I am following my gut and heart. I am only doing films which have the ability to push me beyond my comfort zone. When the narration finishes, I have to feel butterflies in my stomach otherwise I don’t take up the film. The film has to unsettle me,” shares Deepika.

But the actor clarifies that this does not mean that the films she does have to always be hard-hitting. Even a feel-good buddy drama can be intriguing enough for her to take it up.

“It does not have to be an extremely intense film. Even when I chose a film like Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani (2013), I had the same level of excitement because I had never played a character like Naina before. I have to feel challenged. I have always listened to that voice in my head,” she says.

And Deepika is taking that forward with her next film, Chaapaak, which sees her play an acid attack survivor. The Meghna Gulzar-directed project is based on the life of acid attack survivor Laxmi Agarwal. With Chaapaak, Deepika is also making her debut as a producer.

“Again, my choices as a producer will be similar to my choices as an actor. They will be driven by my creative juices and not box office and commercial viability. I will tell stories that I feel an emotional connect with. I’ve always relied on that and will continue to do so,” she says.

So, as a producer would she only back issue-based films? “I rather let that unfold slowly than saying it. It is always nice if it unfolds in front of the audiences as and when it happens,” she replies. 

Juhi Chakraborty (HINDUSTAN TIMES; November 14, 2019)

Bollywood couple Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh had a fairytale wedding last year, and while they were reluctant to admit their relationship before marriage, post it, they’ve been setting major #couplegoals. And, completing a year of togetherness, Deepika says the past year has been “fun.”

“Before marriage, we kept it traditional. We didn’t want to live in and discover each other before we tied the knot. We are both quite traditional in that way. Discovering different aspects about each other, and living with each other, has been so much fun,” gushes the 33-year-old.

Their two-day wedding celebrations in Lake Como (Italy) had two ceremonies — the first one was a traditional Konkani Brahmin style wedding on November 14, followed by Anand Karaj the next day. While their wedding was an elaborate affair, followed by multiple receptions, the couple is keeping things very low-key for their anniversary celebrations. They will visit Tirupati Balaji temple and the Padmavathi temple, Andhra Pradesh, today and then fly to Amritsar to visit the Golden Temple tomorrow.

The couple has been busy for the past one year with their respective work commitments. However, Deepika says they have always made sure to make time for each other. She says, “Yes, we’ve been extremely busy. We’ve had our hands full with our work commitments and it’ll be like this for a while. But despite that, whatever time off we get, we spend it with each other. We value that time and look forward to it.”

The pair, who had worked together in films like Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela (2013), Bajirao Mastani (2015) and Padmaavat (2018), have collaborated after marriage, too. They star together in the upcoming sports drama ’83 in which Ranveer plays the role of cricketer Kapil Dev and Deepika, his wife, Romi Dev. So, how has it been working together post-marriage? She says,“It wasn’t any different. We’re both so obsessed with our work on the set that we don’t think about our personal relationship. We think about our characters and the nuances of the scenes. When the camera starts to roll, we are actors, not husband-wife.”

Deepika Padukone says overcoming mental illness may seem tough, but with enough support, it’s possible
Juhi Chakraborty (HINDUSTAN TIMES; October 11, 2019)

She’s single handedly responsible for bringing the topic of mental health to the forefront by sharing her battle with clinical depression back in 2015. And since then, Deepika Padukone has been passionately championing the need to disassociate stigmas and taboos around mental illness.

“And I won’t die until I accomplish that. It’s my mission in life. I’ll not be able to rest in peace unless we, as a country, stop attaching stigma around mental health,” she says.

Asked if it was difficult to share such a personal story with the world, Deepika says, “Not at all. I’m glad with the way I went about it. Acceptance is the key to recovery. That’s half the battle won.”

However, the 33-year-old reveals that the path to recovery was challenging as she had to be very patient with her mind and body. “It’s not like fever that you just recover from overnight. The recovery process was tough. I gave myself enough time to recover,” she says.

The actor also emphasizes how family and friends play a crucial role during a person’s recovery process. “People around you have to first learn to accept it and then be patient. I’ve known situations where the child was willing to accept that he/she had depression, but their parents were in denial. They were concerned about the stigma that might follow if they took their child to a counsellor,” she says.

Deepika shares how her path to recovery was easy all thanks to people dear to her — parents, then boyfriend-now-husband Ranveer Singh, friends and colleagues from the industry. “There was not a single person who was not supportive. They accepted my issue and helped me recover,” she gushes.

So, are people in showbiz more prone to get into depression? “In my limited knowledge, it can happen to anybody. There are several reasons why anxiety and depression can happen to people irrespective of gender, profession and so on,” asserts Deepika.

And in another step towards the cause, the actor-philanthropist has launched The Deepika Padukone Closet initiative through which some of her favourite wardrobe pieces will be sold and the proceeds will go to support the cause of mental health.

“This will serve two purposes. Wherever I go, fans, friends including my mother and sister are like ‘give us na something from your closet’. I thought why not share my most loved pieces and at the same time giving to a cause that I am so passionate about,” concludes the actor.

We want kids but not anytime soon
“It’s sad that society puts people in this rut that if you’re dating for so long toh shaadi kab hogi and then bacche. We’re not surprised by the rumours. Of course we want children, we both love kids. But we’re too selfishly focused on our careers at this point. It wouldn’t be fair to have kids at this point. We’re not even thinking about kids.”

Deepika Padukone on playing Kapil Dev’s wife in Kabir Khan’s upcoming sports-drama, which recreates India’s first cricket World Cup win and is fronted by her husband, Ranveer Singh, who plays the former skipper
Himesh Mankad (MUMBAI MIRROR; August 13, 2019)

After wrapping up her maiden home production, Chhapaak, in which her protagonist is inspired by acid attack survivor Laxmi Agarwal, Deepika Padukone had air-dashed to London for ’83. The sports-drama is fronted by her better half, Ranveer Singh, who is playing the role of Kapil Dev, the former Indian cricket captain who lead the team to World Cup victory. The actress plays the skipper’s wife, Romi Dev, in the Kabir Khan directorial. The film marks the couple’s first collaboration since they tied the knot in November last year.

Ask Deepika if the couple’s real life chemistry will reflect on screen and she says, “As actors, you don’t think about your personal equations while doing a film. You are fully focused on the moment and the character. You cease to exist as the person you are and only live the character that you are playing. Our personal equation won’t have any role to play in this film.”

Before joining the team in the Queen’s city, the actress had multiple interactions with Romi to get the nuances of her character right. “I feel so inspired every time I meet her. She has an extremely refreshing energy, is intelligent, knowledgeable, and funny,” she smiles. What’s the one quality she admires about her muse? “I like her candour. Romi ji is someone who is extremely honest and when she needs to express herself, she does it with a lot of dignity. I like the way she conducts herself with so much grace,” Deepika asserts.

Kapil Dev has spoken on several occasions about the role his wife has played in his success as a cricketer. Deepika agrees that Romi is his support system and explains that this was what got her on board. “At the end of day, for any champion, the drive, commitment and dedication must come from within. But yes, having a solid support system is important as it allows the person to work without holding back, without any kind of emotional burden. In that sense, Romi ji has played an extremely important part in Kapil Dev’s success,” she reasons, adding that this shows how much Romi admires Kapil for who he is, beyond his success. “In a way, I think this has also helped him stay grounded. These characteristics are very important in the journey to success.”

The film went on the floors on June 5 in Glasgow and Deepika joined the team during the London schedule. After finishing her portions, she returned to India and will be resuming work on the film in the upcoming schedules which will take place back home. “It has been fun; it’s a passion project. The boys are having a lot of fun because cricket is obviously something that they all enjoy playing, so they don’t feel like they are shooting,” she informs.

In a crucial game against Zimbabwe in the 1983 World Cup, India was struggling at 17 runs at the loss of five wickets, when Kapil Dev took charge, scoring match-winning 175 runs in 138 balls to take his team into the semi-finals. Sunil Gavaskar labeled it as the greatest ODI knock ever. However, the match was not recorded and apart from the spectators in the stadium, not many got to witness this historic innings by the former Indian captain. “Certain moments were not captured on camera, and I think the closest we will ever get to that is through this film, that’s what makes the journey really exciting,” Deepika points out.

That apart, she believes it is important to tell this story for two reasons — for the youngsters who don’t realize what a great victory it was and for the ones who witnessed it. “So, it will be a great film to enlighten a generation that was probably not around during the 1983 World Cup and relive the memories with those who were,” informs Deepika.

Ranveer’s look as Kapil Dev took the digital world by surprise, as one couldn’t find too many differences between the real and the reel.

What can one expect from Deepika’s Romi? “Wait and watch,” she winks.

Lastly, badminton ace Prakash Padukone’s daughter articulates her thoughts on India’s first World Cup win. “I find the victories of athletes in the past were hard-fought and well-earned because of the circumstances in which they won these trophies — the lack of infrastructure, finance and knowledge. Anyone who won in that time, be it in cricket or any other sport, did it with sheer determination and passion. Today, I feel there is a lot more awareness, the facilities are better and so is the infrastructure,” she concludes.

Chaya Unnikrishnan (DNA; July 24, 2019)

After wrapping up her maiden production, Chhapaak, in which Deepika Padukone essays the role of an acid-attack survivor, Malti, inspired by the real-life personality Laxmi Agarwal, the actress got on board for '83 based on India’s Cricket World Cup victory in 1983. The film, which she is also co-producing, has Ranveer Singh stepping into the shoes of Kapil Dev as the team’s captain and Dippy essays his wife Romi Bhatia.

Incidentally, this will be the first film the duo is doing together after their marriage and what’s interesting is they play a married couple on screen as well. The leggy beauty had less than 48 hours to switch from her character as Malti to Romi as there was only a gap of two days between the shoots. She finished her last schedule of Chhapaak in Mumbai and the next day left for the shoot of '83 in Glasgow, London. “Deepika plays an intense character in Chhapaak, where she had to go deep into the life of Laxmi. Romi is completely different, so she had to let go of the emotional journey of the former and have a clean slate before starting her next shoot,” says the source.

Deepika shares that detaching herself from a role always takes a while especially if it’s an intense one. “In fact, I’ve always believed that a character never really leaves your system entirely. This time around, I took to cleaning and organising things around my home to help me cope with switching from Laxmi to Romi Dev in '83. It helped me de-stress and clear my mind of any clutter,” she reveals.

Neha Maheshwri (BOMBAY TIMES; June 10, 2019)

Ranveer Singh, who plays Kapil Dev in Kabir Khan’s ’83, has found his Romi Bhatia (the legendary cricketer’s wife) in Deepika Padukone. Not only that, but Deepika has also come on board as the co-producer of the film. The project will see the Bollywood power couple reunite for the first time after their marriage. Deepika says it was one of those roles that she gave the nod to as soon as Kabir offered her the film. She adds, “I am so glad that Kabir came to me with it. This happened a couple of months ago, when he was still casting the boys for the film. It’s just that I was busy with Chhappak (her production debut, which wrapped up recently) and we were waiting for the right moment to make the announcement.” In a quick chat with BT, she talks about the ambitious project, how sports have influenced her life and, of course, about teaming up with her real-life partner for the fourth time in her career. Read on…

’83 is your first film with Ranveer post-marriage. Do you think the dynamics between you as actors will change?
When you are in the business of movies, you are playing a character. Of course, all of this is yet to play out, but at the end of the day, you are essaying a role, and at that point, you are not thinking whether your co-actor is your husband, brother or someone you know closely. All you try to do is, be honest in that moment. The personal equation doesn’t spill over into the workspace. I can’t think of anyone else who could do justice to the role (of Kapil Dev), but if there was someone else playing him in the film, and not Ranveer, I would still do my part. This isn’t coming from a personal equation, but from my passion and enthusiasm for the film.

Ranveer has spent a considerable amount of time with Kapil Dev to get into the skin of the character. Do you intend to spend some time with Romi to understand her perspective and role in the legendary all-rounder’s life and career?
There isn’t a lot of material available on her. I have met her a few times, including our wedding reception, and I have interacted with her socially over the years. I am also referring to whatever material the director’s team has sent across to me. My parents have known their family for many years. So, I feel I know her and hope that she is proud and happy with the film. I intend to connect and spend some time with her before I start filming to be able to understand her perspective better.

Will you be sporting Romi’s chic boy-cut hairdo for the part?
Well, you will have to wait and watch!

We have often seen fans blame and troll WAGs when an athlete fails to perform, Anushka Sharma being a case in point when Virat Kohli doesn’t have a great knock. Don’t you think that it is unfair and out of line?
I have been part of state teams when we were not allowed to travel with our parents, and we could only travel with the team. Honestly, I don’t think I am in a place where I can say whether athletes should or shouldn’t travel with their families, or whether they are a distraction or not. At the end of the day, it’s how an individual reacts to that situation. Some athletes play really well with their families around, while for others, it could be a distraction. Maybe, it should be left for the athlete to decide. However, what worries me is the inconsistency. Why should someone (family) not be given the credit if they (athletes) perform well? What about when someone doesn’t play well when their spouse is not around? Similarly, when they play well and create world records, the credit should also be given to the family.

In fact, families play a crucial role in an athlete’s career, don’t they?
Yes, I have seen it from close quarters because of my parents. A support system that a wife or family is to an athlete often goes unnoticed. It was important for me to be a part of this film to highlight the personal journey athletes go through when they are playing and performing at such a high level. The focus is usually on the professional achievements, and we tend to ignore their personal and humane aspects, and the sacrifices an athlete and his/her family have to make to support one person’s dreams and ambitions. I have seen that with my mother (Ujjala Padukone). I don’t think my father could have been half the champion that he was if it wasn’t for my mom. She, along with my grandparents and his siblings, have played an integral role in his success. In fact, I always have the utmost respect for homemakers, as their job is the most selfless. To be the backbone of the family, while others step out to nurture their ambitions, and to be that person who puts others’ needs before their own, is a very selfless thing to do. It was important for me to tell this story to the audience.

Ranveer and you have contrasting personalities, is your approach as actors different? Do you feed off each other’s energy?
Yes, I think so. We have worked in three films together, and they have all been successful. Individually, we are strong and different personalities, and when put together, we know how to feed off each other’s energy and that’s the beauty of it. I think Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-leela was a classic example of that. It’s exciting and challenging at the same time.

Who is a bigger cricket buff between the two of you?
Let me put it this way, Ranveer is a bigger cricket buff and follows it a lot more, but he has found a good companion in me. We discuss sports. I come from the sporting world, I understand it and have my own opinions. When I saw Ranveer train for the part, I could tell that it is something that he is inherently good at. Maybe, he lost touch because he started playing other sports. A few months of training has really brought him back and made him a good cricketer.

Who are your favourites in the Indian cricket team?
I like Rahul Dravid’s personality and the way he has conducted himself off the field. It’s not just about the way one performs on the field, but also what they stand for and represent. For me, an ideal sportsperson would be a mix of M S Dhoni and Rahul Dravid. For his kind of achievements, it’s amazing to see how simple, humble and grounded Dhoni is. He could have become arrogant and even given up the sport, but instead, he is constantly pushing the envelope. There is so much to learn from him as a person. I think both of them are extremely inspiring and they remind me of the way my father conducted himself.

Besides, co-producing '83, you are also producing Chhappak. Your choice of projects makes it evident that you are keen on backing unconventional subjects.
I will always be true and authentic with my choices. Earlier, it would be my choices just as an actor, today I have an opportunity to extend that scope into production, as well. The films I do, as an actor, producer, or both, are an extension of my personality and who I am.

As an athlete yourself, how has your sports background helped you in your acting career… like being sporting enough to stomach a flop or being patient enough to wait for the right film. Do you think that your experience as a sports person helped you survive in a difficult industry like Bollywood?
Absolutely, I think you just summed it up. There are certain life lessons that I learnt on a playing field that I probably wouldn’t have learnt otherwise. Sports is an integral part of who I am. I wouldn’t have been half the person that I am today, if it wasn’t for my experience as an athlete. I consider myself extremely fortunate to have been exposed to sports, not just as a hobby, but in a competitive environment. Dedication, discipline, determination, patience, how to handle success and failure — when you experience it through an athlete’s lens, it’s very different. I have used the lessons I learnt from that time in my life, both, personally and professionally.