Deepika Padukone Adds Another Feather to Her Cap: Becomes the First Indian to Receive a Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame!
In a historic and proud moment for India and its vibrant film industry, global icon and acclaimed actress Deepika Padukone has been selected as one of the inductees for the Hollywood Walk of Fame Class of 2026. The prestigious honor places her among a distinguished list of international stars and marks a significant milestone, not just in her illustrious career, but for Indian representation in global cinema. With this announcement, Deepika becomes the first Indian national and contemporary Indian actress to receive a star on the iconic boulevard, cementing her status as a global cultural ambassador.
The Walk of Fame: A Symbol of Global Stardom
The Hollywood Walk of Fame, managed by the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce, is one of the most coveted recognitions in the entertainment world. Spanning across the sidewalks of Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street in Los Angeles, the Walk features more than 2,700 brass stars embedded in pink terrazzo, each honoring a luminary in film, television, music, theater, or radio. Every year, a select few are carefully chosen for their extraordinary contributions to the industry and their significant influence on global audiences.
In 2025, Deepika Padukone’s name was officially added to the Motion Pictures category, joining a legendary list that includes names such as Meryl Streep, Audrey Hepburn, and Denzel Washington. The selection committee reviewed hundreds of nominations before finalizing the list, with the results formally approved on June 25, 2025. Her induction ceremony is expected to take place sometime in 2026.
Breaking Barriers: A Historic First for India
While Indian-origin actor Sabu Dastagir, known for his work in the 1930s and ’40s, received a star posthumously in 1960, Deepika is the first Indian national and mainstream Bollywood actress to receive this global honor in modern times. Her induction not only showcases her achievements but also shines a spotlight on Indian cinema and the increasing recognition it is gaining worldwide.
In an industry long dominated by Western figures, Deepika’s inclusion is a symbolic step toward the increasing visibility of South Asian voices in Hollywood. Her journey from the silver screens of Mumbai to the global red carpets of Cannes, the MET Gala, and the Oscars has inspired millions across the world.
A Career Marked by Excellence
Deepika Padukone’s career has been nothing short of phenomenal. She made her Bollywood debut with Om Shanti Om (2007), opposite Shah Rukh Khan, and quickly rose to fame with her striking screen presence, charisma, and talent. Over the years, she has delivered critically acclaimed performances in films such as Piku, Padmaavat, Chhapaak, Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani, and Tamasha, earning numerous awards and accolades.
In 2017, she ventured into Hollywood with xXx: Return of Xander Cage, sharing screen space with Vin Diesel. The film introduced her to international audiences and opened new avenues for Indian talent in Western productions. Beyond acting, she is also a film producer under her banner Ka Productions, and her works aim to support meaningful, socially relevant cinema.
More Than Just an Actress: A Global Icon
Deepika Padukone is far more than a film star. She has become a symbol of elegance, resilience, and influence. She’s been featured on TIME magazine’s list of 100 most influential people (2018), received the TIME100 Impact Award, and is a prominent face for global luxury brands such as Louis Vuitton and Cartier—a feat achieved by very few South Asian celebrities.
Moreover, she is a strong mental health advocate. Having opened up about her struggles with depression, she founded The Live Love Laugh Foundation, which has helped thousands across India and beyond. Her courage to speak out on stigmatized issues has won her respect and admiration across continents.
The Meaning Behind the Star
The honor of receiving a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame is not just symbolic; it represents years of dedication, global influence, and artistic contribution. However, the selection process is rigorous. Celebrities cannot apply on their own behalf—nominations are submitted by publicists, fans, or studios, and honorees are only accepted based on merit. Moreover, selected individuals must agree to attend the installation ceremony and contribute approximately $85,000 (₹73 lakh) towards the star’s installation, maintenance, and ceremony logistics.
Deepika’s acceptance of this honor showcases her intent to continue engaging with international audiences and her growing role in shaping global cinema narratives. Her team has confirmed that she will personally attend the star unveiling ceremony in 2026.
Reactions from Around the World
Following the announcement, social media exploded with congratulatory messages for the actress. Fans, fellow actors, directors, and international personalities praised her for this achievement. Bollywood stars like Alia Bhatt, Ranveer Singh, Priyanka Chopra, and Karan Johar celebrated the moment, calling it “a proud day for Indian cinema.”
The official Hollywood Walk of Fame page described Deepika as a “global powerhouse whose talent, grace, and commitment to excellence have made her a beloved figure worldwide.” Industry insiders hailed her as a bridge between East and West, someone who has consistently maintained authenticity while adapting to diverse storytelling formats.
The Road Ahead
With this monumental recognition, Deepika is expected to further expand her presence in Hollywood. Several international projects are reportedly in the pipeline, and her recent appointment as a jury member at the Cannes Film Festival and as presenter at the 2023 Oscars has only reinforced her credibility as a cross-cultural icon.
In India, she continues to work on high-profile projects, including Kalki 2898 AD, a futuristic epic, and The Intern, a Hindi adaptation of the Hollywood hit, co-starring Amitabh Bachchan.
Conclusion: A Trailblazer’s Legacy
Deepika Padukone’s induction into the Hollywood Walk of Fame marks a milestone not only in her journey but also in the story of Indian entertainment’s evolving global narrative. As the first Indian actress to receive this honor, she stands as a testament to the power of talent, perseverance, and cultural bridge-building. Her legacy will now be etched permanently on the sidewalks of Hollywood—a place that has historically symbolized global stardom and now welcomes an Indian name with pride.
This achievement goes beyond accolades; it’s a moment of pride for 1.4 billion Indians and millions of fans around the world. Deepika’s star will shine not just on the boulevard, but in the hearts of those who dare to dream big.
