Bollywood’s reigning queen, Deepika Padukone, continues her international ascent, gracing the prestigious BAFTA Film Awards red carpet just weeks after presenting at the Oscars. Not only did she add another prestigious award show to her resume but also presented the award for Best Film Not in the English Language at the 77th BAFTA ceremony held on February 18th, 2024.
Dressed in a breathtaking golden saree designed by Sabyasachi, Padukone exuded elegance and cultural pride on the red carpet. Her presence at the BAFTAs wasn’t just a glamorous moment; it marked a significant milestone for Indian cinema, further solidifying her position as a global ambassador for the industry.
This international recognition comes hot on the heels of her appearance at the 96th Academy Awards, where she introduced the song “Naatu Naatu” from the Indian film RRR, which went on to win the award for Best Original Song. Padukone’s graceful introduction and the song’s infectious energy captivated the global audience, showcasing the vibrancy and power of Indian cinema.
Padukone’s journey at the BAFTAs was equally captivating. As she presented the award for Best Film Not in the English Language, she spoke about the importance of storytelling that transcends borders and languages. Her heartfelt words resonated with the audience, highlighting the universal power of cinema to connect us all.
The internet is buzzing with praise for Padukone’s red carpet look and her role as a presenter. Fans are celebrating her achievements and her contribution to putting Indian cinema on the global map. This achievement isn’t just hers alone. It follows in the footsteps of other notable Indian celebrities who have graced the BAFTAs in the past, including Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, and Priyanka Chopra Jonas. This tradition underscores the growing recognition and appreciation for Indian talent on the international stage.
The film that won the Best Film Not in the English Language award at the 77th BAFTAs was “The Zone of Interest” by Jonathan Glazer. While not an Indian film, Padukone’s presence and message of universal storytelling add another layer of significance to the award.
Speaking about her experience, Padukone said, “It’s an honor to be here and present this award. Cinema has the power to break down barriers and connect us all through shared stories. I’m proud to be a part of this global conversation and celebrate the power of storytelling.”
