MUMBAI: Bollywood star Deepika Padukone has once again proved her star power, this time on the internet. She has been ranked as the most-searched Indian actor of the past decade, leaving behind big names like Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, Prabhas, and Rajinikanth.
According to Indian media reports on 25 years of Indian cinema, Deepika is the only female actor to top the list.
She is followed by Shah Rukh Khan in second place, while Aishwarya Rai, Alia Bhatt, and the late Irrfan Khan complete the top five.
Other names in the top 10 include Aamir Khan, Salman Khan, Hrithik Roshan, and Akshay Kumar. Among regional cinema stars, only Prabhas and Dhanush made it to the list.
Deepika Reflects on Her Journey:
Reacting to the recognition, Deepika said that when she started her career, people often told her how a woman should move forward in the industry. “From the beginning, I was never afraid to ask questions, ruffle feathers, walk a difficult path and challenge the status quo,” she shared.
She added that the trust of her family, fans, and colleagues gave her the courage to make bold choices. “Hopefully, these decisions will help change the path for those who come after me. IMDb’s report on 25 years of Indian cinema validates my belief that honesty, authenticity and resilience matter,” she said.
ALSO READ
Sanwal Yaar Piya Geo TV drama cast, timings, & schedule released
Deepika Upcoming Projects:
On the work front, Deepika will be seen opposite Allu Arjun in his upcoming project with director Atlee, tentatively titled AA22XA6. She will also reunite with Shah Rukh Khan in Siddharth Anand’s King. Both films are expected to release in 2026.
Reports About Her Future Roles:
According to Indian media reports, even after Deepika’s exit from Spirit and Kalki 2, she still has two major films in hand – Atlee’s collaboration with Allu Arjun and King with Shah Rukh Khan.
While she has already started shooting for King, there were rumours that her role in Atlee’s movie had been cut short due to demands for shorter work hours.
However, insiders have dismissed such claims. A report by Mid-Day said Deepika will begin shooting with Allu Arjun later this month and that her role remains unchanged. Sources said she has a “fierce part” that is important to both the first and second halves of the movie.
ALSO READ
Case No. 9 drama cast, timings, and schedule details here
Reportedly, Deepika has given dates from late October to December for the project. The first schedule will establish her character, followed by large-scale action scenes in November. In December, the team will move to the UAE for crucial action and emotional sequences with Allu Arjun.
Her exit from Kalki 2 reportedly came after a dispute over fees and work hours, while earlier this year she was also dropped from Spirit for similar reasons. Media reports suggest that since becoming a mother, Deepika has asked for shorter working hours.
Atlee’s project with Allu Arjun (AA22XA6) is described as a high-energy action film. Allu Arjun will reportedly play dual roles in the movie, adding another twist to the story.
