Bollywood's reigning superstar, Deepika Padukone, rings in a milestone birthday today, January 5, 2026, as she turns 40. The celebrated actress is marking this special occasion in New York with her husband, actor Ranveer Singh, continuing their New Year celebrations far from the Indian shores. Known for her powerful screen presence and global influence, Deepika's journey from a sports-centric family in Bengaluru to the pinnacle of Hindi cinema is filled with fascinating chapters. On her birthday, let's delve into some of the lesser-known facets of her life and career.
Global Origins: A Copenhagen-Born Indian Star
While many assume Deepika Padukone was born in India, her origins trace back to Europe. She was born in Copenhagen, Denmark, in 1986. Her family relocated to Bengaluru when she was merely 11 months old. It was in the garden city of Karnataka that she was raised and spent most of her formative years, growing up in a close-knit household. This unique beginning adds an international layer to the profile of one of India's most beloved actresses.
The Path to Stardom: Kannada Films and Music Videos
Contrary to popular belief, Deepika's cinematic journey did not begin in Bollywood. Before she charmed the nation as the lead in Om Shanti Om, she had already made her acting debut. Her first film was the Kannada movie 'Aishwarya' in 2006. Prior to that, she gained significant attention by featuring in Himesh Reshammiya's popular music video Naam Hai Tera. These early steps paved the way for her grand Bollywood entry. At the age of 21, she debuted opposite Shah Rukh Khan in the 2007 blockbuster Om Shanti Om, which catapulted her to overnight fame and established her as a leading lady to watch.
A Legacy of Sports and Discipline
Deepika Padukone hails from a family with an extraordinary sporting pedigree. She is the daughter of badminton legend Prakash Padukone, and the athletic spirit runs deep in her veins. During her school days, she was an accomplished badminton player at the national level and even participated in state-level baseball tournaments. Her younger sister, Anisha Padukone, is a professional golfer, carrying forward the family's sporting legacy. This rigorous athletic background instilled in Deepika a sense of discipline, resilience, and physical fitness, qualities that are evident in her commanding work ethic and dynamic screen presence.
Championing Mental Health Awareness
Beyond the glitz and glamour, Deepika has emerged as a powerful advocate for mental health in India. Drawing from her personal battles with depression and anxiety during the initial phase of her career, she took a bold step to address the stigma. In 2018, she founded The Live Love Laugh Foundation. This major initiative is dedicated to raising awareness about mental health, offering support through helplines, and running educational campaigns. The foundation focuses on improving access to therapy and community support, impacting millions across the country and encouraging open conversations about psychological well-being.
As Deepika Padukone celebrates four decades, her story remains a compelling narrative of talent, hard work, and the courage to use her platform for meaningful change. From her unexpected birthplace in Denmark to becoming a Bollywood icon and a mental health champion, her journey continues to inspire.
