Deepika Padukone: The face of India’s new wave in International cinema

Internationally acclaimed actor and producer Deepika Padukone says her journey to global stardom is rooted in a conscious intent to represent India authentically eschewing stereotypes, challenging conventions, and embracing opportunities on her own terms.Speaking at CNBC TV’s Global Leadership Summit, where she was joined by designer Sabyasachi Mukherjee, Padukone discussed her Hollywood debut, the biases she encountered, and her determination to portray her culture in its true spirit.

“It’s very deliberate… I was very clear about taking India to the world, but the India that I know,” Padukone said, recounting her move to Hollywood. “Getting into that industry, or doing it in the way that has been expected of us or suits a global audience, was something I never wanted to do, even if it took longer.” She addressed how the Western gaze often fixates on clichés about India, noting, “I have experienced all those clichés firsthand, whether it has to do with casting, our accent, or the colour of my skin. I wanted to do it my way and on my terms.”

Breaking stereotypes and global barriers

Padukone’s efforts to carve out her own path have brought international acclaim. Since her Hollywood debut in the action film “XXX: Return of Xander Cage” (2017) alongside Vin Diesel, she has become a regular fixture on red carpets at the Cannes Film Festival, the Oscars, and the BAFTAs expanding the presence of Indian talent in global media. Her influence extends beyond the screen. Padukone made history as Louis Vuitton’s first-ever Indian ambassador, starring in international campaigns and appearing on billboards along Los Angeles’ Sunset Boulevard. “It was weird but at the same time I felt incredibly proud to see a brown face on a hoarding for a global luxury brand. More than a personal victory, it felt like a win for every single Indian woman,” she remarked.

Despite the glitz, Padukone is candid about her refusal to accept roles perpetuating narrow, color- or accent-based stereotypes. “In Hollywood, I was offered clichéd roles that didn’t go beyond the surface. I’ve felt the bias around accent and skin colour, but for me, it was essential to break that mold—however gradual the progress,” she explained. This resonates with the experiences of Indian actors like Irrfan Khan and Priyanka Chopra, who have similarly defied conventions to redefine South Asian representation on screen.

A voice for the future - From critique to innovation

In a notable twist, Padukone once mocked for her deep voice and Indian accent was recently chosen as the official voice of Meta AI, a move that signifies both technological advancement and a shifting global outlook toward diversity in branding. “It’s interesting as I’m someone whose voice was mocked when I came into the industry, and now suddenly I’m the voice of Meta AI. Strange... and my accent too. But I continued to own it. That’s why it happened,” she said, highlighting how owning her authenticity led to this honor.

On the subject of artificial intelligence in cinema, she is optimistic yet cautious: “I’m so excited about the possibilities. The only thing it cannot replace is human emotion...because you can’t infuse soul into AI.” Describing herself as “an old soul,” Padukone affirmed the irreplaceable value of human expression in art and storytelling.

Achievements and upcoming projects

Padukone’s impact goes far beyond her Hollywood stint. She continues to be one of India’s most celebrated and highest-earning actresses, with acclaimed performances in films such as Padmaavat , Chennai Express , and Piku . She’s the recipient of three Filmfare Awards, included in Time magazine’s list of the 100 most influential people in the world, and is an outspoken advocate for mental health. She will next be seen in the much-anticipated Shah Rukh Khan-starrer "King" and an untitled project directed by Atlee, featuring Allu Arjun.

A pioneer for Indian identity

Reflecting on her career, Deepika Padukone stands as a global trailblazer not just for her talent and glamour, but for her commitment to meaningful representation. Her journey challenges the narrative for Indian performers abroad and sets a new benchmark for authenticity in international entertainment and branding.