Mumbai: Bollywood actor Deepika Padukone has responded to online criticism over her perceived silence on husband Ranveer Singh’s film Dhurandhar 2, shutting down claims that she was being “unsupportive”.

The controversy began after social media users questioned why Deepika had not publicly praised the film, despite its reported success. Some even labelled her as indifferent, sparking widespread debate online.

Public appearances fuel speculation

Amid the chatter, the couple was spotted spending time together at popular eateries in Mumbai, including Benne, known for its South Indian cuisine, and Maaslli, a seafood restaurant.

The duo appeared relaxed and cheerful, even posing with staff and fans. Videos circulating online showed Deepika smiling as fans chanted “Babbar Sher”—a reference to a character nickname associated with Ranveer’s role in the film.

Despite these public outings, speculation persisted, particularly after Deepika attended a concert by Rishab Rikhiram Sharma with her in-laws instead of making a public appearance linked to the film.

Viral post triggers backlash

A viral social media post questioning her absence from promotional activities further intensified the debate. The post suggested that Deepika had deliberately avoided acknowledging the film’s success, fuelling narratives of a possible rift or disapproval.

The criticism gained traction, with users debating whether her silence was intentional or simply a personal choice.

Deepika’s sharp response

Breaking her silence, Deepika responded directly in the comments section of one such post. She dismissed the speculation, clarifying that she had watched the film much earlier than others.

Her response, brief but pointed, effectively countered the narrative and drew support from fans who viewed the criticism as unwarranted.

Past support resurfaces

Amid the controversy, many users recalled that Deepika had publicly praised the first instalment of the franchise upon its release in December 2025.

In her earlier post, she had described the film as “worth every minute” and congratulated Ranveer Singh and the entire team, expressing pride in their work.

This resurfaced post has been cited by fans as evidence of her consistent support, countering claims of indifference.

Social media scrutiny and celebrity narratives

The episode highlights the intense scrutiny faced by celebrities in the age of social media, where even the absence of a public statement can trigger widespread speculation.

Public figures often find their personal choices interpreted through the lens of online narratives, which can quickly spiral into controversy.

Conclusion

Deepika Padukone’s response has largely put the controversy to rest, reaffirming that her silence was not indicative of any discord. The incident underscores how quickly assumptions can gain momentum online, and how celebrities continue to navigate the pressures of constant public attention.