Deepika Padukone is undeniably one of the most celebrated stars in Bollywood today, but long before she made her silver screen debut in Om Shanti Om alongside Shah Rukh Khan, she first appeared in Himesh Reshammiya’s music video Naam Hai Tera. Her journey from a model to a top-tier actress has often been chronicled, yet a fresh debate has emerged over how much credit she gives to those early opportunities.
During a recent podcast appearance, singer Mika Singh expressed his opinion that Deepika has not acknowledged Himesh Reshammiya’s role in her career as much as she should. “Deepika doesn’t like to admit it, but she should. More newcomers will learn from her on how to grow in the industry,” Mika remarked, suggesting that her acknowledgment could serve as guidance for aspiring talents.
Contrary to Mika’s claim, Himesh Reshammiya himself had taken a gracious stance in a previous interview when asked about launching Deepika. He emphasized that while many newcomers were given a chance, it was her own talent and determination that set her apart. “We launched many other girls, but they didn’t become Deepika Padukone. So, the whole credit goes to her. She starred in the music video of ‘Naam Hai Tera’, and she was a star from day one. She was fantastic. Her dedication, hard work, and screen presence were good even back then,” Himesh said, giving full credit to Deepika’s own efforts.
In fact, Deepika has publicly acknowledged Himesh’s support in the past. During an appearance on Indian Idol, where Himesh was on the judging panel, she recalled her first-ever experience on a set while shooting for the music video. She expressed gratitude to Himesh for guiding her through the process. “I knew nothing about shooting when I was shortlisted for the music video. I never went to a film set or knew how music videos are shot. Whatever I am doing today, I have learned it while filming the music video. Thank you, sir, for giving me this opportunity. You had faith in me when nobody else did,” Deepika had said on the show.
While opinions may vary on how much recognition is enough, the record clearly shows that Deepika has acknowledged her early break and the role Himesh Reshammiya played in it—perhaps not as frequently as some expect, but with sincere gratitude when it mattered.
