Actor Deepika Padukone says authenticity is the driving force behind every choice she makes today—both professionally and personally. In a new conversation with Harper’s Bazaar India, the star explained that she now weighs every project against a simple question: Does this feel true to me? If the answer is no, she walks away, no matter how lucrative the offer.

Padukone revealed that she has turned down films offering massive paychecks because they didn’t resonate with her. “Authenticity is the only thing I never compromise on,” she shared, adding that money alone has never been enough to convince her. On the other hand, she’s more than willing to support smaller projects if she connects with the message or the people behind them.

She admitted, however, that this clarity came with time and experience. Earlier in her career, she didn’t always follow her instincts as firmly as she does now. “Of course I look back sometimes and wonder what I was thinking—but that’s part of evolving,” she said. “Maybe years from now, I’ll rethink today’s decisions too. But for the moment, they feel honest.”

A major part of that honesty, Padukone noted, is refusing to imitate others. As someone who frequently represents India on global platforms, she believes embracing one’s cultural identity is crucial. When asked what being a “global Indian” means to her, she replied that it’s about proudly carrying one’s heritage rather than adjusting it to fit external expectations. “Why should we dilute ourselves when talent from other regions is accepted as they are?” she said.

Padukone also addressed India’s ongoing discussion about fixed eight-hour workdays, especially for women and new mothers. She argued that the culture of overworking has become dangerously normal. “Burnout isn’t dedication,” she said. She added that her own office follows an eight-hour schedule with clear maternity and paternity policies, and she hopes workplaces will make space for children as well.

As she champions balance and authenticity, the actor is preparing for the release of King, her upcoming film with Shah Rukh Khan. Directed by Siddharth Anand, the project marks her sixth major collaboration with SRK since her debut in Om Shanti Om.