January B'day-Girl from Padmaavat to Pathaan to Fighter: Deepika Padukone-- what is her Republic Day filmy connection ? By Sr. Journalist Chaitanya Padukone

Screen-Queen Deepika Padukone’s ( birthday January 5th) seems to share a special sentimental box-office connection with Republic Day week and specifically, January 25! The R-Day has witnessed three of her blockbuster releases over the years. Each film released on this date turned out to be a memorable one, where her characters only added to the stature of her filmography. From historical dramas to contemporary tales, this Republic Day, the January 25 releases have dominated the box office!

Padmaavat (2018):  Power of royal grace, courage, and aura

Released on January 25, 2018, Padmaavat, directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, saw Deepika Padukone step into the role of Rani Padmavati — a character defined not by spectacle, but by dignity, courage, and moral conviction. Anchoring a visually opulent and emotionally intense narrative, Deepika’s performance became the soul of the film. Her portrayal reflected restraint, composure, and an unwavering sense of self, elevating the character beyond period-drama tropes. 

Pathaan (2023): Re-defining modern-age hi-tech  super-spy

Five years later, on January 25, 2023, Deepika returned to the Republic Day weekend with YRF's Pathaan — directed by Siddharth Anand and once again, rewrote the rules. As Rubina Mohsin, she delivered a fierce, unapologetic, and layered portrayal of a super-spy who was as emotionally complex as she was physically formidable. Deepika brought sharp intelligence, raw intensity, and magnetic screen presence to the role, becoming one of the film’s biggest highlights. Her dynamic chemistry with Shah Rukh Khan added gravitas to the action-packed narrative, while the film itself shattered box-office records globally, cementing its place as a defining moment in contemporary Indian cinema.

Fighter (2024): Patriotism blending power and emotional resilence :

Continuing her Republic Day streak, Fighter, directed by Siddharth Anand released on January 25, 2024, presenting Deepika Padukone in yet another transformative avataar — that of Air Force officer Squadron Leader Minal Rathore. Inspired by real-life bravery, Deepika infused the character with quiet resilience, emotional strength, and unwavering patriotism. Holding her own in a film driven by scale and action, she brought authenticity and heart to the narrative. Paired opposite Hrithik Roshan, their commanding screen presence and palpable chemistry elevated the film’s emotional core along with her ability to blend nationalism, nuance, and star power seamlessly.

Across Padmaavat, Pathaan, and Fighter, Deepika Padukone hasn’t just delivered three Republic Day blockbusters — she’s created three iconic characters, each vastly different yet equally memorable. As the years pass, January 25 doesn’t just mark a release date; it stands as a testament to Deepika Padukone’s enduring reign, where scale meets substance and legacy is built one unforgettable role at a time.