Lara Dutta recalled how Deepika Padukone remained an “absolute professional” on the sets of Housefull (2010) despite being drained and shivering with malaria.
Bollywood films may look full of glitter and glamour on screen, but life behind the camera is very different. Shooting a big movie often means long hours, tough schedules, and moments when actors have to push through exhaustion or illness.
In the wake of Deepika Padukone’s exit from high-profile projects like Kalki 2 and Spirit, there has been chatter in the industry regarding her professional demands and work-life balance.
Amidst this, Lara Dutta recently shared a memory from the sets of the 2010 hit Housefull, recalling how the Cocktail actress displayed extraordinary professionalism by continuing to shoot even after being diagnosed with malaria.
“We went to Italy, and it was like a big family on holiday,” Lara told NDTV, describing the warm atmosphere created by producer Sajid Nadiadwala.
But behind the scenes, Deepika was struggling. “She had malaria and was absolutely wiped out. She was running a high fever, shivering all night, and had to be put on medication,” the actress revealed.
Even under those conditions, Deepika showed up on set the next morning to film emotional scenes alongside multiple actors. “You could see she was drained, but she was an absolute professional. There was no drop in her performance,” Lara emphasized.
The actress went on to explain that such commitment deserves recognition. “As an actor, you have to give another actor credit for that. Malaria wipes you out completely—it’s not just a cold or fever. Yet she delivered without compromise.”
Lara also praised Deepika’s clarity and focus, saying that when actors bring their craft with such discipline, “that’s when the magic happens.”
Helmed by Sajid Khan, Housefull revolves around Aarush (Akshay Kumar), a man considered extremely unlucky, whose search for love leads to a web of lies, misunderstandings, and comic chaos. The film also stars Deepika Padukone, Lara Dutta, Riteish Deshmukh, Arjun Rampal and Boman Irani.
