Happy Birthday Deepika Padukone: 8 reasons that make her 30th birthday 'extra special'

Bollywood's gorgeous diva, Deepika Padukone can easily be termed as the actor who outshone all her counterparts in 2015. Touted as one of Bollywood's most beautiful actresses, Deepika showcased great acting skills last year, outperforming her and critics’ expectations. She continued her heart-winning streak started after 'Cocktail' and garnered accolades for many more things.

As the 'Mastani' of Bollywood turns 30, IBNLive brings to you 8 reasons that make her 30th birthday very special:

Piku

Amitabh Bachchan looked adorable playing a 'motion-obsessed' father, who doesn’t want her daughter to get married, but it was Deepika’s brilliant performance as Piku that audience applauded the most. Deepika played a simple, independent and dedicated daughter who wanted to sacrifice her own happiness to take care of her father. The ease with which Deepika played a strong Bengali character was worth appreciating. Deepika's charm and acting made 'Piku' a success, proving Deepika's versatility.

Tamasha

While Piku was all about Deepika, 'Tamasha' had her in not so major but crucial role as Tara. In Ved's story, Tara became the anchor to his dreams. Deepika's conviction made Tara relatable to every urban girl. The sadness in Deepika's eyes in 'Agar Tum Saath Ho' still haunts many. Delivering another role-driven success through 'Tamasha', Deepika established herself as an actor of 'story' more than 'banners'.

Bajirao Mastani

The success of 'Bajirao Mastani' completed Deepika's hat trick of brilliant films in 2015. Padukone looked nothing less than an enchantress, donning that royal glow, throughout the film. Playing a historic character is always as challenge and Deepika took it up with such grace and finesse. Mastani's turmoil and intense love was portrayed well by her, garnering accolades from the audience and critics alike. With 'Bajirao Mastani', Deepika official proved 2015 as her shining year.

Live, Love, Laugh Foundation

Apart from films, Deepika opened up about her depression and made people realise to take it more seriously. "Having experienced depression in the recent past, I realise how difficult it is to recognise the problem, find information and get the right kind of professional help (sic)" Deepika said while launching her foundation. The actress had a tremendous 2014, but still felt 'directionless' and 'lost'. After coping from it, the 'Chennai Express' star decided to launch 'Live Love Laugh' foundation, a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to addressing the issue of mental health in India. While many argued it to be a promotional stunt, the fans fell in love with the courage and dignity Deepika opened up about her problem.

Dignified silence

Deepika Padukone is known to be poised and a silent observer. Last year, her unsaid feud with 'Queen' Kangana Ranaut was the talk of the town. Kangana, very openly, admitted her 'dislike' for Deepika and threw shade at her in many occasions. While many expected a befitting reply from Deepika, the 'Finding Fanny' star kept mum. She handled the entire 'controversy' in a matured way and her dignified silence spoke. Plus, who cares about the shade, when all you films are bringing bright light in your career!

Friendship with Ranbir Kapoor

When Imtiaz Ali decided to bring back Ranbir and Deepika, onscreen, the rumour-mills were set ablaze. Every gossip monger, turned his ear to hear something good, bad or ugly from the 'ex-flames'. Well, shutting everything down, both the stars showed how not to mix your personal feelings in professional matters. The chemistry shared by Ranbir and Deepika proved the ease with which they worked. The easy-go, forgive and forget attitude of Deepika showed that the actress has kept everything in her past and has moved to greater heights, both professionally and personally.

'XXX' with Vin Diesel

Another news that gives Deepika all the more reason to celebrate her 30th birthday, is her future collaboration with Hollywood star Vin Diesel. Who can forget that picture of Deepika and Diesel hug that broke the internet? Well, after ruling the grounds of Bollywood we expect our southern diva to mesmerise the Hollywood with her talent and beauty alike.

'My Choice' video

While many celebrities took a stand on various subjects, actresses came in front and spoke about gender-disparity. Deepika starred in a campaign designed for 'Women Empowerment', tilted 'My Choice'. Although the video was criticised by many, one cannot deny the fact that the intentions were right. Some content might be inappropriate and anarchist to a fault, but the way Deepika took a stand was commendable. While few things were blown out of proportions, we all loved Deepika's idea of 'My Choice'.

Wishing the gorgeous lady of Bollywood, a very happy birthday!