Bollywood actress Deepika Padukone has once again proven her mettle by winning the Best Actress award at the 21st International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) Awards for her stellar performance in the film “Chhapaak”. Directed by Meghna Gulzar, “Chhapaak” is a hard-hitting drama based on the real-life story of acid attack survivor Laxmi Agarwal. The film, which received widespread critical acclaim, is a poignant portrayal of the physical and emotional trauma faced by acid attack survivors, as well as their resilience and determination to rebuild their lives. In “Chhapaak”, Deepika Padukone delivers a powerful performance as Malti, a character inspired by Laxmi Agarwal. Her portrayal of Malti is both sensitive and intense, capturing the pain, anger, and eventual triumph of a woman who refuses to be defined by her circumstances. Padukone’s performance is marked by a deep understanding of the character’s emotional journey, as well as her commitment to raising awareness about the issue of acid attacks. The IIFA Awards, often referred to as the “Oscars of Bollywood”, are one of the most prestigious platforms for recognizing excellence in Indian cinema. Winning the Best Actress award at this international event is a significant achievement for Padukone, who has consistently delivered outstanding performances throughout her career. In her acceptance speech, Padukone dedicated the award to all acid attack survivors, saying, “This award is for all the brave women who have faced unimaginable pain and still found the strength to fight back. Your courage inspires me every day.” She also thanked the film’s director, Meghna Gulzar, for entrusting her with such a challenging role, and her co-stars and crew for their support. Padukone’s win at the IIFA Awards has been widely celebrated by her fans and peers in the film industry. Many have praised her for taking on such a challenging role and using her platform to highlight a critical social issue. Her performance in “Chhapaak” is seen as a career-defining moment, further cementing her status as one of Bollywood’s most talented and versatile actresses. In addition to her acting skills, Padukone is also known for her commitment to social causes. She has been an outspoken advocate for mental health awareness and has launched her own foundation, The Live Love Laugh Foundation, to support individuals struggling with mental health issues. Her involvement in “Chhapaak” is seen as an extension of her commitment to using her influence to bring attention to important social issues. The success of “Chhapaak” and Padukone’s award-winning performance have also sparked conversations about the need for stricter laws and better support systems for acid attack survivors in India. The film has raised awareness about the challenges faced by survivors, including the difficulties in accessing medical treatment, legal recourse, and opportunities for rehabilitation. As Deepika Padukone continues to push the boundaries of her craft, her win at the IIFA Awards is a reminder of the impact that cinema can have in shaping societal attitudes and promoting positive change. Her performance in “Chhapaak” is not just a testament to her acting talent, but also to her dedication to making a difference through her work.