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Think about the ‘90s and early 2000s — Kajol, Rani Mukerji, Preity Zinta, and Madhuri Dixit were on speed dial for Shah Rukh Khan’s blockbusters. They delivered hit after hit, becoming the quintessential Bollywood dream teams. But as time went on, a new wave of leading ladies like Anushka Sharma, Katrina Kaif, and Deepika Padukone entered the scene, sharing the spotlight with Shah Rukh.
Among this new wave, Deepika emerged as SRK’s most recurring—and wildly successful—on-screen partner. It all started with her dream debut opposite the superstar in Farah Khan’s Om Shanti Om back in 2007. Anushka, of course, also had her big Bollywood break with Shah Rukh in Aditya Chopra’s Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi (2008). But while that film was a smashing success, their later pairings — Jab Harry Met Sejal in 2017 and Zero in 2018 — didn’t exactly set the box office on fire.
And when Shah Rukh decided to make a roaring comeback after the debacle that was Zero, it’s no surprise that he turned to Deepika. The result? Two of 2023’s biggest blockbusters—Pathaan and Jawan. These movies didn’t just break records; they smashed them, marking a career-defining year for SRK and cementing their status as Bollywood’s ultimate power duo of the moment.
But it’s not just Shah Rukh Khan who has benefited from this powerful collaboration. Deepika Padukone’s career had hit a bit of a slump post-Padmaavat (2018). Don’t get us wrong — she delivered some stellar performances in films like Chhapaak and 83, but none of them got the ticket counters buzzing. And then came Gehraiyaan, which sank faster than a stone in the ocean and faded from memory just as quickly.
Enter Pathaan. Deepika went all out with her action-packed avatar, bringing glam and that undeniable spark with SRK. And just when we thought it couldn’t get better, Jawan arrived, sealing the deal on Deepika’s grand career revival. It’s safe to say that Deepika and SRK’s partnership is a gift that keeps on giving—whether it’s for fans, filmmakers, or the box office. As we celebrate Deepika’s birthday, let’s take a moment to dive into their iconic collaborations:
Om Shanti Om (2007)
The film that catapulted Deepika Padukone straight into stardom! As Shantipriya, the golden girl of the 70s, Deepika exuded old-school charm and grace, capturing everyone’s attention even while sharing screen space with the ever-charismatic Shah Rukh Khan. Hailing from Bangalore, Deepika faced some criticism for her diction in the film, but she took it in her stride, using the feedback to work on her craft and overcome this shortcoming.
Chennai Express (2013)
For many, Chennai Express was just a feel-good, no-brainer comedy, but for others, it became their ultimate comfort film, like dal chawal. Deepika absolutely nailed her role as Meenamma, the feisty South Indian girl, bringing her hilarious accent, perfect comedic timing, and electric chemistry with SRK’s Rahul (not rahul naam toh suna hi hoga, but close!). She showed off her comic brilliance in Rohit Shetty’s film, delivering laugh-out-loud moments with ease. While Chennai Express did face some criticism for its portrayal of South Indians, it eventually found a loyal fanbase who loved the quirky movie more with each watch.
Happy New Year (2014)
The glitch in the Shah Rukh Khan and Deepika Padukone matrix was Happy New Year. This Farah Khan directorial aimed to recreate the Om Shanti Om magic but fell flat. However, the one thing that kept the audience engaged through this drab affair was Deepika’s dazzling presence as Mohini. Whether it was her killer dance numbers or her hilarious attempts to speak English, Deepika brought both humour and sensitivity to the role. In fact, at times, she even stole the limelight from SRK himself with her effortless charm and charisma.
Pathaan (2023)
“I think there is a very pure equation that we share. More than anything, I think we miss each other. I miss being a part of some of the films he has done off late and I miss being around him on set,” Deepika said, just before she got her wish to star opposite Shah Rukh in the blockbuster Pathaan. From high-octane fight sequences to steamy dance numbers like “Besharam Rang,” Deepika’s chemistry with SRK was absolutely a chef’s kiss. But Pathaan wasn’t just a hit; it set the stage for something even bigger and better. Ready?
Jawan (2023)
Though it was dubbed an extended cameo, Deepika’s appearance as Aishwarya became the heart and soul of Shah Rukh Khan’s all-time blockbuster Jawan. Her emotional depth added layers of heart to the otherwise adrenaline-fueled narrative. Whether it was her romantic moments with SRK or her tragic exit that drove his rage and redemption arc, Deepika proved that even a brief role in her hands could make a lasting impact.
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