Farah Khan Opens Up on Deepika Padukone: Om Shanti Om, 8-Hour Workday, and Rumored Fallout
Farah Khan, the celebrated filmmaker who launched Deepika Padukone in Bollywood with Om Shanti Om, recently opened up about her bond with the actress, addressing past casting decisions, 8-hour workday jokes, and social media rumors about a fallout between them.
Spotting Deepika for Om Shanti Om
Farah Khan recalled that when casting for Om Shanti Om, she wanted someone who could embody the grace and charm of Hema Malini’s era. “I saw Deepika in the Amrapali outfit from the song ‘Dhoom Tana’ and knew she had that aura,” Farah said. Despite Deepika’s diction needing improvement, Farah ensured she received rigorous training in diction, dance, and acting, including classes with Anupam Kher. This meticulous preparation paved the way for Deepika’s iconic Bollywood debut alongside Shah Rukh Khan, Shreyas Talpade, and Arjun Rampal.
The Social Media Rumors
Recently, rumors surfaced that Farah and Deepika had unfollowed each other on Instagram, fueling speculation of a rift. Screenshots circulated online, and some even suggested Ranveer Singh had unfollowed Farah. However, Farah clarified the matter on social media, stating sharply, “What rubbish ul write!! Pls find other things to do.”
In a detailed conversation with Pinkvilla, Farah explained, “To begin with, we were not following each other earlier, too!! We had made a pact during the Happy New Year shoot that we wouldn’t communicate on Instagram, instead, direct message and call. We don’t even wish birthday wishes on Insta because Deepika doesn’t like it.”
8-Hour Workday Jokes Explained
The rumors also linked Farah’s remarks about an 8-hour work shift to a dig at Deepika, following the actress’ exit from projects like Spirit and Kalki 2. Farah clarified that her comment was playful and aimed at her cook Dilip, not Deepika: “Also, my 8-hour comment wasn’t a dig; it was to make Dilip say that he will now also work 8 hours when he actually works just for 2 hours!”
Farah’s jokes, like those in her vlogs with Radhikka Madan and Rohit Saraf, were often misinterpreted by fans. She humorously mentioned, “Deepika Padukone ab sirf 8 ghanta shoot karti hai, usko show pe aane ka time nahi hai,” clarifying that these remarks were not personal.
Deepika’s Professional Choices
Deepika Padukone has recently stepped away from big projects citing factors such as limited shooting hours, fees, and profit sharing. Her departure from Spirit and Kalki 2 fueled speculation, but Farah emphasized that their personal bond remains strong, having been one of the first visitors when Deepika’s daughter, Dua, was born.
Maintaining a Special Bond
Farah Khan and Deepika Padukone share a unique bond built over years of collaboration, from Om Shanti Om to Happy New Year. Farah emphasized that not every moment is meant for Instagram or public consumption: “It can genuinely cause problems between people. Thankfully, I pick up the phone and call them before it gets worse! But people need to stop doing this,” she said.
Looking Ahead
Despite rumors and social media misinterpretations, Farah and Deepika continue to maintain their friendship. The story of Deepika’s rise, her work ethic, and their bond reflects not just Bollywood glamour but the intricacies of relationships behind the camera.
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