Deepika Padukone on Regret, Growth and Authentic Film Choices

Deepika Padukone, one of India’s most influential actors, has opened up about the lessons and clarity she has gained across her 18-year journey in cinema. Known for delivering some of the country’s biggest commercial and critical successes, she admitted that not every film choice from her past is one she stands by today.

In a recent conversation, Deepika said she sometimes revisits her earlier decisions with regret, acknowledging that her evolution as an artist has reshaped how she views her work. The introspection, she said, is part of her ongoing growth.

Speaking about how she now chooses her projects, Deepika emphasised that authenticity is the one standard she refuses to compromise on. “The only non-negotiable is authenticity. Anything that doesn’t feel true to me doesn’t cut it,” she said. She added that neither money nor commercial potential is enough to sway her unless she genuinely believes in the story, the people, or the message behind the project.

Deepika admitted this clarity came with experience. “Was I always this clear? Maybe not. Do I sometimes look back and think, ‘What was I thinking?’ Of course. That’s part of learning,” she said, adding that the same may happen a decade from now with choices she feels confident about today.

The actor is now preparing for two major upcoming projects. She will next appear in King, directed by Siddharth Anand and starring Shah Rukh Khan, Suhana Khan, Abhishek Bachchan and Rani Mukerji. The film is set for an April 2026 release.

She will also reunite with director Atlee for a high-profile film featuring Allu Arjun, currently titled AA22xA6, scheduled to hit theatres in 2027.

Deepika’s candid reflections highlight how purpose, honesty and creative conviction have become central to her artistic journey—shaping not just the films she chooses, but the legacy she continues to build.