Actor Deepika Padukone has been named an honoree for the Hollywood Walk of Fame Class of 2026 in the Motion Pictures category, becoming the first Indian actress to receive this prestigious recognition. The announcement places her alongside global stars such as Demi Moore, Rachel McAdams, Emily Blunt, Timothée Chalamet, Rami Malek, and Stanley Tucci.
Freida Pinto Backs Deepika Amid Debates
Following the announcement, actor Freida Pinto, best known for Slumdog Millionaire, took to Instagram to show her support and urge unity among South Asians. She wrote:
“To my fellow South Asians — let’s celebrate our own and not bring them down please. News like this should make us feel proud to see a hardworking, talented Indian woman of substance being celebrated on a global platform. This topic doesn’t need to lend itself to endless debate. Congratulations Deepika, you deserve the recognition!”
Deepika Reacts with Gratitude
Deepika acknowledged the honour on Instagram Stories with a simple but heartfelt word: “Gratitude…”
A Historic First for Indian Actresses
While Indian-origin figures like Mindy Kaling have received stars in the past — with Kaling being the first South Asian woman to be honoured — Deepika is the first Indian actress from India to receive this recognition in the Motion Pictures category.
Before her, the only other Indian on the Walk of Fame was Sabu Dastagir, who featured in the inaugural Walk of Fame class in 1960. Sabu was a former elephant mahout’s son discovered by filmmaker Robert Flaherty for the 1937 film Elephant Boy, based on Rudyard Kipling’s work.
What’s Next for Deepika
Deepika was last seen in the sci-fi epic Kalki 2898 AD. She will next appear in a film directed by Atlee, co-starring Allu Arjun.
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