Indian actor Deepika Padukone has achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first woman from India to receive a star on the iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame. Her induction ceremony took place on Wednesday evening in Hollywood, honoring her international success, notably in XXX: The Return of Xander Cage. While the honour is a result of a rigorous selection process, inductees are responsible for covering maintenance costs associated with their star.
What Makes the Walk of Fame So Prestigious
The Hollywood Walk of Fame stretches along Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street, featuring more than 2,700 embedded stars honouring celebrities in film, television, music, radio, and live performance. Each year, the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce receives between 200 and 300 nominations. A dedicated selection panel vets candidates based on their sustained contributions to popular culture. The Walk of Fame’s Class of 2026 includes notable personalities such as Emily Blunt, Timothée Chalamet, Marion Cotillard, Stanley Tucci, Rami Malek, Rachel McAdams, Demi Moore, Chris Columbus, Tony Scott, Greg Daniels, and Sarah Michelle Gellar.
How Stars Are Chosen and Sponsored for the Walk of Fame
Contrary to popular belief, there’s no purchase involved in getting selected. Instead, inductees are chosen solely by the Chamber's selection committee. Once chosen, however, recipients must pay a sponsorship fee—currently $85,000 (approximately ₹73 lakh)—to cover production, installation, and long-term upkeep of their star. This cost is often supported by studios, brands, or fan clubs. According to the Walk of Fame’s official site: “The fee is used to pay for the creation and installation of the star, as well as maintenance of the Walk of Fame.”
Deepika Padukone’s star places her among global icons being celebrated in 2026. It is a symbolic achievement that recognises her growing global influence and success.