Deepika Padukone, one of Bollywood’s most celebrated actresses, is known not just for her acting prowess but also for her strong stance on various social issues, especially those concerning women. As she prepares for motherhood, with the internet buzzing over her recent maternity photoshoot, an old yet powerful story from her teenage years has resurfaced, reminding everyone of her fearless spirit.
A Courageous Stand at 14
Long before Deepika became the star we know today, she was a 14-year-old girl who displayed immense courage in the face of harassment. During an interview with India Today, Deepika recounted a harrowing experience from her teenage years that has left a lasting impression on her and her fans.
Deepika shared that one evening, while walking with her family after dining out, a man deliberately bumped into her. The incident occurred when her father and sister were ahead, and her mother was walking beside her. At first, she was shocked by the man’s actions but quickly realized the gravity of the situation. Instead of brushing it off, as many might have done, Deepika decided to confront her harasser head-on.
Taking Matters Into Her Own Hands
Recalling the incident, Deepika said, “I was only 14 or 15 years old at the time. When that man collided with me, I felt a surge of anger. I could have let it go, but I knew that if I didn’t take a stand, he might do the same thing to someone else.”
With determination, the young Deepika followed the man, grabbed him by the collar, and slapped him in front of everyone on the road. Her brave action left the man stunned, and she walked away, knowing she had done the right thing. Deepika’s parents were proud of their daughter for standing up for herself, and this moment became a defining one in her life, shaping her into the strong woman she is today.
A Strong Voice Against Injustice
Deepika has always been vocal about women’s rights and mental health, using her platform to address these issues. Her bravery as a teenager is a testament to the strength she has shown throughout her career, whether in her personal life or in facing public controversies.
One such controversy arose when Deepika was trolled for her appearance in the “Besharam Rang” song from the movie Pathaan. Despite the backlash, including criticism for wearing an orange bikini, Deepika stood her ground and continued to promote the film with confidence.
Facing Threats for “Padmaavat”
Deepika’s determination was also evident during the release of Padmaavat, where she received threats from extremist groups who were opposed to the film’s portrayal of historical events. The actress remained unshaken, even jokingly suggesting that those threatening her should cut her leg instead of her nose, showing her fearless attitude in the face of danger.
