Deepika Padukone, one of India’s most celebrated actors, has never shied away from charting her own path, whether in Bollywood or on the global stage. When she made her Hollywood debut with XXX: Return of Xander Cage in 2017, starring alongside Vin Diesel, it marked a significant milestone in her career. At the time, Deepika was already an established star in India, known for her versatility, screen presence, and ability to seamlessly navigate both commercial and critically acclaimed films. But stepping into Hollywood was not merely a matter of crossing borders—it was an encounter with a world that held a very different, often clichéd, perception of India.

Speaking candidly at CNBC’s Global Leadership Summit, Deepika opened up about the challenges she faced in navigating Hollywood while remaining true to her identity. She revealed that her primary motivation was to present India authentically to the world. “I was very clear about taking India to the world, but the India that I know,” she said. “For example, moving to Hollywood and getting into that industry, or doing it in a way that has been expected of us or suits a global audience, was something I never wanted to do, even if it took longer.”

For Deepika, Hollywood was a space that demanded negotiation between perception and reality. She encountered a “sort of idea of India” that did not reflect her lived experience. According to her, Western perspectives often leaned on dated clichés that reduced the richness of India to superficial markers: accents, skin tones, and generalized cultural tropes. “I have experienced all those clichés firsthand, whether it has to do with casting, our accent or the colour of my skin,” she explained. The experience, she admitted, was frustrating at times, but it also strengthened her resolve. She was determined to approach her career on her own terms, doing it “my way,” without compromising her sense of identity or authenticity.

Despite these challenges, Deepika successfully carved out a space for herself in Hollywood, leveraging both her talent and her global visibility. She did not confine herself to films alone. Over the years, she has become a prominent figure at international events, expanding her influence well beyond acting. In 2022, she was a member of the competition jury at the 75th Cannes Film Festival, evaluating films from around the world alongside distinguished peers. The same year, she unveiled the trophies at the FIFA World Cup final in Qatar, showcasing her ability to represent India on some of the largest global stages. Her recognition continued with her appointment as the global ambassador for the luxury brand Louis Vuitton, further solidifying her status as a global icon. Earlier in 2025, she was named one of the honorees for the Hollywood Walk of Fame Class of 2026 in the Motion Pictures category, marking a historic achievement in her international career.

Reflecting on her Hollywood journey, Deepika emphasized that her approach was never about simply adapting to expectations but about redefining them. She consciously avoided roles or opportunities that would force her to conform to stereotypical portrayals of India. “I think what bothered me every time I went to the West was this sort of idea of India they have. It is so different from the country that I know,” she said. For Deepika, authenticity mattered more than expedience. While some might have chosen to fit into pre-existing notions of India, she remained committed to presenting a nuanced, realistic image, even if that meant slower progress or fewer immediate opportunities.

Her efforts reflect a broader vision: challenging the homogenized, commercialized image of India in global cinema while proving that Indian actors can hold their own on international platforms without sacrificing cultural integrity. Deepika’s Hollywood debut and subsequent engagements abroad were not just career moves—they were part of a deliberate effort to reshape narratives about India on the world stage. By maintaining her accent, choosing roles carefully, and engaging with international audiences authentically, she demonstrated that Indian actors can navigate global cinema without losing their essence.

Looking ahead, Deepika’s career continues to be vibrant both in India and abroad. She is set to star alongside Shah Rukh Khan in the much-anticipated film King, a collaboration that has generated considerable excitement among fans and the media alike. Simultaneously, she is working with South Indian superstar Allu Arjun on Atlee’s upcoming film, tentatively titled AA22xA6, further expanding her presence in Indian cinema across regional industries. These projects reflect her ongoing commitment to challenging herself as an actor, choosing roles that offer depth, and collaborating with filmmakers known for their ambitious storytelling.

Deepika’s journey highlights an important conversation about representation in global cinema. Her experiences underscore how cultural preconceptions can shape opportunities, expectations, and perceptions of talent. Yet, they also illustrate how perseverance, talent, and a commitment to authenticity can overcome these barriers. By insisting on doing things her way, Deepika has not only advanced her career but has also contributed to a broader dialogue about India’s evolving image in Hollywood—a conversation that goes beyond film to touch on issues of identity, representation, and cultural exchange.

Through her candid reflections, Deepika encourages a generation of actors and artists to embrace their heritage, challenge stereotypes, and assert their individuality in spaces that may not always understand or immediately appreciate their perspective. She serves as a reminder that global recognition need not come at the cost of authenticity, and that cultural pride can coexist with international ambition.

In sum, Deepika Padukone’s Hollywood journey is emblematic of her broader approach to life and career: fearless, deliberate, and deeply rooted in a sense of self. From XXX: Return of Xander Cage to Cannes, FIFA, and the Hollywood Walk of Fame, she has consistently demonstrated that success on the global stage is achievable without surrendering one’s identity. Her story is not only one of professional accomplishment but also of resilience, cultural advocacy, and the power of staying true to one’s principles, offering inspiration to countless artists aspiring to make their mark both in India and beyond.