Sanjay Leela Bhansali was overwhelmed when he saw Deepika performing the climax speech before Jauhar in the film with utmost control, restraint and emotive power.

Sanjay Leela Bhansali had gifted her a 500 rs note as a token of appreciation to his leading lady Deepika Padukone.

The ace filmmaker shares,"There is a lot more to her. Lots! Deepika is one of the finest artistes I've worked with. Such thehrao and such grace! She never surrenders to melodrama even when there is ample temptation to do so. Look at her speech in front of the women before they commit jauhar. Such control, restraint and so much emotive power without tripping over. I was so overwhelmed by how she handled that scene; I gave her a 500-rupee note after she finished the scene. I am sure that token of my appreciation is more valuable and precious to her than the entire remuneration she got for the film"


Sanjay Leela Bhansali further added,"From some angles, she reminds me of Vyjanthimalaji. Sometimes she reminds me of Hemaji. And the grace with which she has performed the Ghoomar dance reminds me of Waheedaji. I strongly believe Deepika has the potential to join the ranks of our legendary actresses"

Deepika Padukone is currently riding high on success for her film Padmaavat.

The actress has been hailed universally for her power-packed performance in the film.

Deepika Padukone has been showered with praises from not only the audience and critics but also the entire film fraternity.

Veteran actors like Rekha, Asha Parekh, Hema Malini, Waheeda Rehman, Neetu Kapoor and Rishi Kapoor were full of praises for Deepika's performance in the film.