Deepika Padukone has become the first Indian to be selected for a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The actress, along with other talented celebrities from various fields, was named for the honour earlier this week. After the announcement, rumours began circulating that celebs buy their way into receiving this recognition. However, that is not true—but the process of getting a star does involve applying for nomination and paying a fee to maintain the star.
Who qualifies for a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame?
Talents from the fields of Motion Pictures, Television, Radio, Recording, and Live Theatre/Performance are honoured with stars along the stretch that runs across 15 blocks of Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street.
To qualify, the person needs to have a minimum of five years of experience. They must be widely known not just in their own country but globally. They are also required to provide proof of contributions to charity and philanthropic work, and must agree to attend the unveiling ceremony.
How to get nominated?
According to the official website, anyone associated with the star—including fans, managers, or sponsors—can apply for the nomination with an application fee of $275. However, the nominee has to sign off on the application and give their consent. Every year, the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce selects 20–30 names from the nominations submitted.
Once selected, a sponsor—usually a studio, fan group, or brand—must foot the bill for the star and its maintenance. The cost is currently between $75,000 and $85,000 (approximately Rs 64–72 lakh). The money goes to the Hollywood Historic Trust, which manages repairs and maintains the Walk to keep it in good shape.
So no, Deepika Padukone did not pay to get her name on the Hollywood Walk of Fame but was selected for her list of achievements and for meeting all the criteria required to earn a place among the stars.
Deepika Padukone`s work front
The actress who was last seen in Singham Again and Kalki 2898 AD has an exciting line-up of films. She has been roped in for Allu Arjun`s next with Atlee and Shah Rukh Khan-starrer King. Both are big-budget anticipated films. Apart from that, Deepika also plans on making the Hindi remake of The Intern along with Amitabh Bachchan. She also has other projects which are yet to be announced.