MUMBAI: Twelve years ago, Deepika Padukone gave us a gem in her trajectory of versatile characters - a surprise with as the rebellious Veronica in Homi Adajania-directed film Cocktail. This pivotal role marked a shift in the trajectory of the superstar, something that lives on as one of the most memorable portraitss. Despite being a character with shades of grey, Deepika's portrayal of Veronica, raw, flawed and endearingly imperfect, struck the biggest chord with viewers, making her one of the most memorable characters in Bollywood.
Veronica was a complex character, pushed to the margins by her parents and former partners, and judged by society as an 'easy girl.' Her journey to break free from these constraints while reconnecting with her softer, sensitive side, made her relatable and compelling. Deepika’s performance was widely praised for being a perfect blend of humour, vulnerability, and confidence, portraying a woman betrayed by society but determined to fight back in her own unique way. A character that continues to be relatable, beyond age, time and gender.
Interestingly, Deepika was initially offered the role of the docile Meera, but her gut instinct led her to choose Veronica instead. This decision proved to be a game-changer for her career. Reflecting on this role, Deepika once said in an interview, “I’ve always believed that while you put a little part of yourself in every character you play, you also carry a part of that character with you forever. And therefore, Veronica will always be one of the most special characters I’ve played on screen; one that changed a lot for me professionally and impacted me personally.”
While she today may reign as India’s biggest female star and a global icon, Cocktail not only redefined Deepika's career but also showcased her versatility as an actor, cementing her status as one of the industry’s most talented and dynamic stars.
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