Deepika Padukone turned 40 today, on January 5. Her experience in the world of Bollywood is not as much about a radical change as a gradual, confident ascent. From being a newcomer to becoming a global icon, she is now one of the leading actors in the world of Bollywood.
Whether commanding the frame in sweeping historical epics or holding one's gaze in smaller, more nuanced tales of character, there is a peaceful emotional truth that she brings to each of her roles. Through the years, the films that she has made not only entertain, but they also stay in one's memory.
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Here are some iconic characters played by her that continue to leave a mark, long after the credits fade:
Padmaavat - Rani Padmavati
In Padmaavat, Deepika didn’t just rely on grand gestures to make an impact. As Rani Padmavati, her strength came through calm silences, steady eyes and an unshakable sense of dignity. Even in a film bursting with scale and spectacle, she held the frame simply by being still, and that quiet resolve stayed with you long after.
Piku - Piku Banerjee
Piku showed Deepika at her most real, the character most women connected to. No gloss, no drama, just a woman trying to balance work, family and her own need for space. She made Piku sharp, funny, frustrated and deeply relatable. Her scenes with Amitabh Bachchan and Irrfan Khan felt lived-in, like moments pulled straight out of everyday life.
Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani - Naina Talwar
Naina Talwar felt like someone you knew. Deepika played her as a young woman slowly figuring herself out, awkward, hopeful, unsure, and eventually confident. The shift never felt forced. It happened gently, just like real life, which is why Naina continues to feel so personal to so many viewers.
Bajirao Mastani - Mastani
As Mastani, Deepika wore love like armour. There was passion, pain and pride in the way she carried the character, whether she was dancing, waiting, or simply holding her ground. She brought a quiet vulnerability to Mastani that made the grandeur feel emotional, not distant.
Cocktail - Veronica
Cocktail was a turning point. Veronica could’ve easily been reduced to stereotypes, but Deepika gave her layers, fun, fearless, broken and deeply lonely. You saw the cracks behind the confidence, and that honesty made the character unforgettable and iconic.
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Chhapaak - Laxmi Agarwal
In Chhapaak, In the biographical drama Chhapaak, Deepika Padukone stepped into the shoes of Laxmi Agarwal, an acid attack survivor, delivering a performance filled with quiet strength and heartfelt authenticity. She brought the character’s courage, resilience, and determination to life, portraying her journey with sensitivity and emotional depth.
Chennai Express - Meenamma
Meenamma was pure joy. Deepika leaned into the humour, the chaos and the larger-than-life energy of Chennai Express. Her comic timing felt effortless, and she brought heart to a role that could’ve easily been just loud fun.
Om Shanti Om - Shantipriya
Last but not least, Om Shanti Om, where it all began. As Shantipriya, Deepika arrived with grace and confidence, instantly catching the audience’s eye. It wasn’t just a dream debut, it was the first glimpse of an actor who would grow, evolve and stay relevant for years to come.
