Mumbai: Bollywood star Deepika Padukone, in a throwback interview with Lehren TV during the release of her debut film Om Shanti Om, credited filmmaker Farah Khan for recognising in her a charm reminiscent of actresses from classic Hindi cinema.
Recalling her experience, Deepika said Farah sensed that she carried the grace and style of old-era heroines. “I think Farah knew or felt that I have that olden actresses’ style. If you see the songs, my hand movements reflect those of heroines from earlier times. Somewhere, Farah felt that I have a bit of the old-day actresses in me,” she said.
She added that this instinctive understanding meant Farah did not need to focus excessively on detailing her body language or character portrayal, particularly as she was playing Shantipriya, a retro Bollywood star in the film.
Deepika also revealed that she had personally studied legendary actresses such as Hema Malini, Madhubala and Vyjayanthimala to grasp their elegance and screen presence. “I watched their films closely and tried to imbibe a little of their style,” she shared.
Clarifying her look in the film, the actress said it was not modelled on any one particular star. “There are no looks taken from specific actresses. It is purely inspired by the 70s. We have not copied any old Indian actress,” she explained.
She further recalled extensive discussions with designer Manish Malhotra, along with Bharat and Doris, ahead of the shoot. Several days were spent finalising costumes and hairstyles to ensure authenticity. “We were very prepared before the shooting,” Deepika said.
Om Shanti Om marked Deepika Padukone’s Bollywood debut. Directed by Farah Khan and produced by Gauri Khan under the Red Chillies Entertainment banner, the film was released on November 9, 2007.
The film starred Shah Rukh Khan in a double role, alongside Deepika, Arjun Rampal, Shreyas Talpade and Kirron Kher in key roles. It went on to become one of the highest-grossing Hindi films of 2007.
The music, composed by Vishal-Shekhar, played a significant role in the film’s popularity. Songs such as Main Agar Kahoon, Ajab Si, Dard-E-Disco, Deewangi Deewangi, Daastaan-E-Om Shanti Om and Aankhon Mein Teri continue to be chartbusters even today.
With inputs from IANS