Deepika Padukone opens up on motherhood, mental health and legacy

Mumbai: Actress Deepika Padukone recently spoke at the Forbes 30/50 Global Summit in Abu Dhabi, offering a rare glimpse into her life as a new mother while also discussing mental health and career aspirations. The Bollywood star, known for her advocacy on mental well-being, reflected on her personal journey and the changes motherhood has brought.

Mumbai: Actress Deepika Padukone recently spoke at the Forbes 30/50 Global Summit in Abu Dhabi, offering a rare glimpse into her life as a new mother while also discussing mental health and career aspirations. The Bollywood star, known for her advocacy on mental well-being, reflected on her personal journey and the changes motherhood has brought into her life.

Finding Inner Peace

Deepika, who has openly spoken about her struggles with depression in the past, emphasised the significance of mental well-being. “As someone who has battled mental illness, my ultimate goal is inner peace. It’s the most important thing, but it doesn’t come easy—it requires constant effort,” she said, reinforcing her commitment to mental health awareness.

Balancing Stardom with Motherhood

Since welcoming her daughter Dua with husband Ranveer Singh last year, Deepika’s priorities have shifted. She revealed that her recent Google search revolved around parenting concerns. “It was definitely a ‘mummy question’—something like ‘when will my baby stop spitting up?’” she shared, showcasing the universal worries of new mothers.

Despite her star status, Deepika remains protective of her daughter’s privacy. The couple has maintained a strict no-media policy regarding Dua, ensuring she stays away from the public eye.

Using Influence for Good

On the professional front, Deepika expressed her ambition to use her platform to drive meaningful change. “I always consider how I can use my influence through the films I choose and the messages I put out to create a positive impact,” she said.

She also recalled a lesson from her father, badminton legend Prakash Padukone, about the legacy she hopes to leave behind. “My father always told me that people remember you for the person you were, not just your achievements. That is what truly matters to me.”

Looking Ahead

While Deepika was last seen in Singham Again and Kalki 2898 AD, her focus now extends beyond the silver screen. Balancing motherhood with a thriving career, she spends her rare days off unwinding with massages, catching up on sleep, and cherishing moments with her daughter.

As she continues to make waves in Bollywood and beyond, Deepika Padukone remains a powerful voice for mental health, a doting mother, and a star determined to leave a lasting impact.