Deepika Padukone, one of India’s most successful and globally recognised actors, has opened up about how her unique voice — once mocked at the start of her career — has now become a defining part of her identity. The Jawan actor, who has recently lent her voice to Meta AI across several countries, shared that the very feature people once ridiculed is now being celebrated.
Speaking at CNBC’s Global Leadership Summit, she reflected on the irony of becoming the official voice of an artificial intelligence platform after facing criticism for her tone and accent in her early days in Bollywood.
From being mocked to becoming the voice of AI
Recalling those early experiences, Deepika said, “I am someone whose voice was sort of mocked when I came into the industry and now suddenly I am the voice of Meta AI – strange! And my accent, but I continue to own it. I think that’s probably how and why it happened.” The actor recently shared a behind-the-scenes glimpse of her recording session on Instagram, announcing that her voice can now be used for Meta AI across India, the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand.
The achievement marks a full-circle moment for the actor, who once faced remarks about her diction and accent. Director Farah Khan, who launched her in Om Shanti Om, had previously noted that Deepika’s expressions were strong, but her diction needed improvement at the time. Over the years, the actor took it in stride, refining her speech while staying true to her natural tone.
Confronting stereotypes in Hollywood
Deepika further discussed her international experiences, revealing that she encountered stereotypes related to accent, skin colour, and cultural perception when she began working in Hollywood. She said her approach was to represent India authentically rather than conforming to Western ideals, even if that meant taking a slower route to success. “I was very clear about taking India to the world, but the India that I know,” she explained.
From her Bollywood debut in Om Shanti Om opposite Shah Rukh Khan in 2007 to her Hollywood venture XXX: Return of Xander Cage with Vin Diesel, Deepika has built an illustrious career spanning continents. She has served as a Cannes Film Festival jury member, unveiled trophies at the FIFA World Cup final, and represented luxury brands such as Louis Vuitton and Cartier.
Up next, she will reunite with Shah Rukh Khan in King and star in Atlee’s upcoming film alongside Allu Arjun.
Speaking at CNBC’s Global Leadership Summit, she reflected on the irony of becoming the official voice of an artificial intelligence platform after facing criticism for her tone and accent in her early days in Bollywood.
From being mocked to becoming the voice of AI
Recalling those early experiences, Deepika said, “I am someone whose voice was sort of mocked when I came into the industry and now suddenly I am the voice of Meta AI – strange! And my accent, but I continue to own it. I think that’s probably how and why it happened.” The actor recently shared a behind-the-scenes glimpse of her recording session on Instagram, announcing that her voice can now be used for Meta AI across India, the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand.The achievement marks a full-circle moment for the actor, who once faced remarks about her diction and accent. Director Farah Khan, who launched her in Om Shanti Om, had previously noted that Deepika’s expressions were strong, but her diction needed improvement at the time. Over the years, the actor took it in stride, refining her speech while staying true to her natural tone.
Confronting stereotypes in Hollywood
Deepika further discussed her international experiences, revealing that she encountered stereotypes related to accent, skin colour, and cultural perception when she began working in Hollywood. She said her approach was to represent India authentically rather than conforming to Western ideals, even if that meant taking a slower route to success. “I was very clear about taking India to the world, but the India that I know,” she explained.From her Bollywood debut in Om Shanti Om opposite Shah Rukh Khan in 2007 to her Hollywood venture XXX: Return of Xander Cage with Vin Diesel, Deepika has built an illustrious career spanning continents. She has served as a Cannes Film Festival jury member, unveiled trophies at the FIFA World Cup final, and represented luxury brands such as Louis Vuitton and Cartier.
Up next, she will reunite with Shah Rukh Khan in King and star in Atlee’s upcoming film alongside Allu Arjun.
