Deepika Padukone took center stage at the Forbes 30/50 Summit in Abu Dhabi, where she spoke candidly about success, self-worth, and breaking barriers for women in the film industry. In a conversation with American broadcaster Mika Brzezinski, she shared her thoughts on how women in entertainment are often categorized by their earnings rather than their impact. She expressed hope for a future where such distinctions are no longer necessary, emphasizing that success should not be defined by paychecks alone.
Padukone, known for her powerful performances and advocacy for mental health awareness, reflected on her journey in Bollywood and beyond. She acknowledged the privilege of being among the highest-paid actresses but pointed out that financial success should not be the only marker of achievement. She emphasized that her work, influence, and ability to inspire young women matter far more than a title based on earnings. She also dismissed the idea that social media following determines an artist’s worth, stating that numbers do not define her identity.
During the discussion, Padukone highlighted how women in the film industry often face additional scrutiny regarding their professional achievements. She noted that while male actors are rarely questioned about their earnings or personal milestones in the same way, women constantly have to prove their credibility. She shared that her approach to work is rooted in passion rather than financial ambition, and she hopes to see a time when female success is measured by the impact they create rather than comparisons to their male counterparts.
The actor also used the opportunity to speak about her commitment to mental health advocacy, a cause she has championed through her foundation, LiveLoveLaugh. She reiterated that true success comes from being able to bring about change in people’s lives, whether through cinema or social initiatives. She discussed the importance of normalizing conversations around mental health and emphasized the need for workplaces, including the film industry, to prioritize emotional well-being.
Padukone’s speech resonated with the audience, many of whom praised her for using her platform to address larger social issues. She urged young women to redefine success on their own terms and to focus on building a legacy that goes beyond material achievements. She reflected on her own evolution, from a young model entering Bollywood to becoming a global icon who advocates for gender equality and mental health.
When asked about her upcoming projects, she spoke about her excitement for Singham 3 and other ventures, promising audiences performances that are both entertaining and meaningful. She acknowledged that fame and financial success have given her opportunities, but she remains committed to choosing projects that align with her values.
The conversation at the summit underscored Padukone’s growing influence beyond the film industry. Her presence at a prestigious global event highlighted her status as a role model for women in business, entertainment, and activism. She emphasized that representation matters and that she hopes to pave the way for more women to take on leadership roles in all fields.
As the discussion wrapped up, she reiterated her belief that genuine success is about how one impacts others rather than accolades or financial milestones. She encouraged aspiring professionals to follow their passions without being weighed down by societal expectations. Her words reflected her journey—a path defined by resilience, self-awareness, and a deep commitment to making a difference.
Deepika Padukone left the stage not just as Bollywood’s highest-paid actress but as a global icon advocating for change. Her words at the Forbes 30/50 Summit reinforced her stance as an artist who refuses to be defined by numbers and instead focuses on the power of influence, representation, and social responsibility.
Deepika Padukone also touched upon the challenges women face in industries dominated by men, not just in entertainment but across various sectors. She pointed out that while progress has been made, there is still a long way to go before true gender equality is achieved. She recalled instances from her career where she had to fight for fair pay and recognition despite proving her talent repeatedly. She emphasized that while she is proud to have reached a position where she can demand equal treatment, she hopes future generations of women won’t have to struggle as much.
The actor also shared her thoughts on the responsibility that comes with being a public figure. She acknowledged that fame provides a platform, but it also brings scrutiny. She mentioned how she has had to learn to navigate criticism and expectations while staying true to herself. She expressed gratitude for the love and support she receives from fans but also highlighted the importance of self-preservation in an era of relentless social media pressure.
Padukone reflected on how mental health conversations have evolved over the years. She recalled the initial hesitation in speaking openly about her struggles with depression and how she feared it might affect her career. However, she now sees a significant shift in awareness, with more people seeking help and discussing mental well-being without shame. She credited this change to persistent advocacy and the willingness of individuals to share their stories.
As the discussion moved towards her future aspirations, Padukone revealed that she hopes to expand her work beyond acting and philanthropy. She expressed interest in mentoring young talent, supporting women entrepreneurs, and continuing to use her platform for meaningful causes. She shared that while she has achieved many professional milestones, she believes her greatest impact lies in helping others realize their potential.
She ended the conversation with a powerful message about self-worth. She encouraged young women to believe in themselves and not allow societal norms to dictate their value. She reiterated that success is a deeply personal journey, and the most fulfilling achievements come from staying authentic and making a difference in the lives of others. As the audience applauded her insights, it was clear that Deepika Padukone had once again left an indelible mark, not just as an actress but as a voice of change.