# Bollywood

Tamasha anniversary: Celebrating Deepika Padukone’s iconic role as Tara

‘Tamasha’ (2015), directed by Imtiaz Ali, is a psychological coming-of-age drama that explores the complexities of self-identity through the lives of Ved and Tara.

Statesman Web | November 27, 2024 5:40 pm

Tamasha anniversary: Celebrating Deepika Padukone’s iconic role as Tara

Nine years ago, ‘Tamasha’ graced the big screen, introducing us to one of Deepika Padukone’s most memorable and layered performances.

Directed by Imtiaz Ali, the film, which released on November 27, 2015, saw Deepika step into the shoes of Tara— a character that resonated deeply with many, particularly women, as a reflection of their own complexities and dreams.

Tara, with her blend of vulnerability and strength, was not just another romantic lead. Deepika’s portrayal was a revelation, capturing the multifaceted nature of her character—a woman brimming with courage, a free spirit with a love for adventure, yet deeply introspective.

Through Tara, Deepika showed us a character struggling with self-discovery, balancing societal expectations with the pursuit of her own happiness. This authenticity made Tara’s journey both relatable and empowering.

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What makes Tara unforgettable is the sheer depth Deepika brought to her. There was a certain warmth to Tara, a compassion that drew people in, yet a raw honesty that made her unapologetically herself. These qualities, combined with her innate fearlessness, made her not just a love interest for the audience but a person they could connect with emotionally.

The film’s chemistry between Deepika and Ranbir Kapoor, who played Ved, was also a highlight, bringing an emotional richness to the story. Their on-screen dynamics—ranging from playful banter to moments of vulnerability—added an extra layer to the film, making it both poignant and deeply moving.

‘Tamasha’ didn’t set the box office on fire initially, but it has since cultivated a strong cult following. It received recognition at the 61st Filmfare Awards, including a win for Best Lyricist for “Agar Tum Saath Ho” by Irshad Kamil. Deepika herself won Best Actress at the 2016 Stardust Awards.