Sanjay Leela Bhansali on meeting Deepika Padukone for the first time: 'Was froze by her beauty'

Filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali and actress Deepika Padukone share a strong professional bond, having collaborated on several acclaimed films, including 'Goliyon Ki Raasleela', 'Ram-Leela', 'Bajirao Mastani', and 'Padmaavat'.
In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter India, Sanjay Leela Bhansali recalled his first visit to Deepika Padukone's residence, sharing that when she opened the door, he was froze by her beauty, particularly her eyes.He explained that he saw a sense of subtlety, fragility, and immense beauty in her. As they began talking, he also found her voice to be captivating.
The filmmaker expressed that in that moment, he knew he was in the right place at the right time, recognizing that Deepika Padukone had the potential to be shaped and guided to great heights. He explained that it's all about instinct and how one’s soul connects with another, which he strongly felt with her.
Filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali and actress Deepika Padukone have collaborated on several acclaimed films, including 'Goliyon Ki Raasleela', 'Ram-Leela', 'Bajirao Mastani', and 'Padmaavat'.
Meanwhile, Deepika will be next seen in 'Singham Again', which will release in ththeatresn November 1. The Rohit Shetty film also stars Ranveer, Tiger Shroff, Kareena Kapoor, Ajay Devgn, Jackie Shroff, Akshay Kumar, and Arjun Kapoor.
On the other hand, Sanjay will helm Love and War which features Alia Bhatt, Ranbir Kapoor, and Vicky Kaushal. The film will be out in theatres on March 20, 2026.