Deepika Padukone’s stunning return to the spotlight

Deepika Padukone made a breathtaking entrance at the WAVES Summit in Mumbai, marking her much-anticipated return to the public eye. Dressed in an elegant ivory saree with intricate gold embroidery, she exuded timeless grace and confidence. The Bollywood icon, who had taken a brief hiatus from public appearances, was met with thunderous applause as she stepped onto the stage, her radiant smile lighting up the venue.

Her poised demeanour and effortless charm reminded fans and industry insiders alike why she remains one of the most beloved figures in Indian cinema. As she addressed the audience, Deepika spoke candidly about her journey over the past year, touching on personal growth, mental health advocacy, and her upcoming film projects. Her words resonated deeply, especially with younger attendees who look up to her as a role model.

Throughout the evening, Deepika was seen engaging warmly with fellow celebrities and fans, taking time to pose for photos and exchange kind words. Her presence brought a renewed energy to the event, and her fashion choice was widely praised by stylists and fashion enthusiasts across social media platforms. For many, her return wasn’t just a celebrity appearance—it was a powerful statement of resilience and grace under pressure.

Mira Rajput’s touching moment steals the show

While Deepika Padukone’s return drew the spotlight, it was Mira Rajput who delivered one of the most heartfelt moments of the evening. Accompanying her husband, actor Shahid Kapoor, Mira arrived in a soft pastel lehenga that reflected understated elegance. But it wasn’t her fashion that had everyone talking—it was a spontaneous gesture that left the audience visibly moved.

During a panel discussion on balancing personal life with public expectations, Mira was invited to share her perspective as someone who has gracefully navigated the limelight without being a traditional part of the film industry. As she spoke, her voice trembled slightly with emotion. She opened up about the challenges of raising children in the public eye and the importance of maintaining authenticity in a world that often demands perfection.

“I may not be an actor, but I’ve learned that being real is the most powerful thing you can be,” she said, her words met with a wave of applause.

What truly touched the audience was when Mira paused mid-sentence to acknowledge the support of her family, especially her children. She reached into her clutch and pulled out a small, hand-drawn card made by her daughter, which read, “Good luck, Mumma!” The crowd erupted in warm laughter and admiration, many visibly touched by the candid moment.

Several attendees later shared on social media how Mira’s vulnerability and sincerity stood out amidst the glitz of the evening. Her ability to connect with the audience on such a personal level added a layer of emotional depth to the summit, reminding everyone that behind the glamour, there are real stories and real people.

In a night filled with dazzling appearances and high-profile speeches, Mira Rajput’s quiet authenticity became the emotional heartbeat of the event—an unexpected yet powerful highlight that resonated deeply with both fans and fellow celebrities alike.

Highlights from the star-studded WAVES Summit

The WAVES Summit in Mumbai was nothing short of a spectacle, bringing together a constellation of Bollywood stars, industry leaders, and cultural influencers under one roof. The event, known for celebrating innovation and creativity across entertainment and lifestyle sectors, delivered a series of memorable moments that had attendees buzzing long after the final curtain call.

Among the standout highlights was a surprise musical performance by Armaan Malik, who took to the stage with an acoustic rendition of his latest chart-topper. The intimate setup and soulful delivery created a magical atmosphere, with the audience swaying along and capturing the moment on their phones. His performance was followed by a high-energy dance showcase led by choreographer Shiamak Davar’s troupe, blending traditional Indian moves with contemporary flair.

Fashion was another major talking point of the evening. The red carpet was a runway in itself, with celebrities donning ensembles from top Indian designers. Alia Bhatt turned heads in a structured emerald green gown, while Ranveer Singh, never one to shy away from bold choices, sported a metallic sherwani with neon accents. The fashion-forward crowd sparked a flurry of commentary across social media, with fans and fashion critics alike praising the daring and diverse styles on display.

In addition to the glamour, the summit also featured a series of thought-provoking panels and keynote speeches. One of the most talked-about sessions was a conversation between filmmaker Zoya Akhtar and actor Ayushmann Khurrana on the evolving landscape of Indian cinema. They discussed the rise of OTT platforms, the importance of inclusive storytelling, and the globalisation of Bollywood content. Their candid exchange offered valuable insights into the future of the industry and was met with enthusiastic applause from the audience.

Another crowd favourite was the “Voices of Change” segment, which spotlighted young entrepreneurs and activists making waves in their respective fields. From sustainable fashion innovators to mental health advocates, the segment underscored the summit’s commitment to celebrating not just celebrity, but substance. The stories shared during this portion of the evening struck a chord with many, particularly the younger attendees who found inspiration in the journeys of these emerging changemakers.

As the night progressed, the energy remained electric, with spontaneous moments of joy and camaraderie lighting up the venue. Whether it was a candid backstage selfie between two rival actors or a heartfelt thank-you speech from a first-time award recipient, the WAVES Summit proved to be more than just a glamorous gathering—it was a celebration of creativity, connection, and community.

Deepika Padukone’s stunning return to the spotlight

Deepika Padukone made a breathtaking return to the spotlight at Mumbai’s WAVES Summit, commanding attention with a look that was equal parts elegance and power. The Bollywood icon stepped onto the red carpet in a sculptural black velvet gown that hugged her silhouette with precision, featuring a dramatic off-shoulder neckline and a thigh-high slit that added just the right amount of edge.

Styled by her long-time collaborator Shaleena Nathani, Deepika paired the ensemble with statement diamond drop earrings and a sleek, centre-parted low bun — a nod to classic Hollywood glamour with a distinctly modern twist. Her makeup was kept minimal yet impactful: dewy skin, a soft smoky eye, and a nude lip that let the outfit do all the talking.

What truly elevated the look was her confident presence — a reminder of why she remains a fashion force on and off the screen. The gown, reportedly custom-designed by a leading Indian couturier, was tailored to perfection, showcasing the craftsmanship and luxury detailing that’s increasingly defining South Asian fashion on the global stage.

For Australian fashionistas, Deepika’s look is a masterclass in balancing drama with sophistication. It’s a silhouette that translates beautifully for eveningwear, especially for those looking to make a statement at gala events or red carpet-style functions. The velvet texture, in particular, is a trend to watch this season — rich, tactile, and undeniably luxe.

Mira Rajput’s touching moment steals the show

While Deepika Padukone’s sartorial return turned heads, it was Mira Rajput who delivered the evening’s most emotionally resonant moment — and did so with effortless style. Arriving in a soft blush-toned chiffon saree with delicate hand-embroidered floral motifs, Mira exuded understated grace. The pastel palette, paired with a sleeveless pearl-encrusted blouse, was a refreshing contrast to the evening’s more dramatic ensembles, offering a lesson in quiet luxury that’s gaining traction among Australian fashion circles.

Her look was styled with minimal jewellery — just a pair of vintage-inspired jhumkas and a slim diamond bangle — allowing the craftsmanship of the saree to take centre stage. Her hair was swept into a low, textured bun, with a few loose strands framing her face, giving the entire look a romantic, almost ethereal quality. The makeup was soft-focus: flushed cheeks, a hint of shimmer on the lids, and a rose-tinted lip that tied the whole look together.

But it wasn’t just her fashion that left an impression. During the summit’s tribute segment, Mira took to the stage to honour a late designer who had mentored many in the industry, including herself. Her voice trembled slightly as she spoke, but her words were heartfelt and poised — a moment that brought the audience to a hush. It was a rare blend of vulnerability and strength, mirrored perfectly in her ensemble.

“Fashion is not just about what we wear, but how we carry our stories,” Mira said, her eyes glistening under the stage lights.

For Australian women navigating the balance between elegance and authenticity, Mira’s appearance is a reminder that fashion can be both expressive and deeply personal. The saree, often seen as traditional, was reimagined here as a contemporary statement — ideal for weddings, formal receptions, or even high-end resort soirées. Expect to see more of this fusion of heritage and modernity on our shores as the South Asian fashion influence continues to grow.