Deepika Padukone has made history by becoming the first Indian actress to be honoured with a star on the iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame. The announcement was made during a live press conference at Ovation Hollywood on Wednesday, where Deepika’s name was revealed as part of the prestigious Class of 2026.

The celebrated Bollywood star joins an elite group of international talents including Emily Blunt, Timothée Chalamet, Rami Malek, and Stanley Tucci, who are also set to receive stars. Other notable names being honoured in the coming year include Miley Cyrus, Gordon Ramsay, and Rachel McAdams.

Expressing her gratitude, Deepika took to Instagram and simply wrote, “Gratitude…”, marking the moment with characteristic grace. Her achievement represents a significant milestone for Indian cinema and highlights her global influence, particularly following her Hollywood debut in xXx: Return of Xander Cage in 2017.

hollywood walk of fame star
Image: hwdwalkoffame on Instagram

The Hollywood Walk of Fame selection panel, which reviewed hundreds of nominations, finalised the Class of 2026 honourees at a meeting held on 20 June 2025. The selections were officially approved by the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce on 25 June 2025.

Peter Roth, former CEO of Warner Bros. Television and chairman of the Walk of Fame selection committee, said in a statement: “We are excited to announce the newest selections of 35 esteemed individuals who will be enshrined on the Walk of Fame as part of the prestigious Class of 2026. These talented individuals have made significant contributions to the world of entertainment, and we are thrilled to honour them with this well-deserved recognition.”

Deepika’s name carries special significance, not only for her own career but also for the Indian film industry as a whole. Prior to this, the only Indian to be recognised on the Hollywood Walk of Fame was Sabu Dastagir, the legendary actor of Indian origin who received his star in 1960.

In addition to her iconic Bollywood roles, Deepika has steadily built an international profile, gracing the red carpet at prestigious events such as the Cannes Film Festival and the Met Gala. Earlier this year, she was also featured in TIME magazine’s 100 Most Influential People list and Variety’s International Women’s Impact Report.

Deepika Padukone’s star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame not only celebrates her immense talent but also marks a proud moment for Indian cinema on the global stage.