Actress to pay `73 lakh annually for maintenance of her Hollywood Walk of Fame star 

Bollywood actress Deepika Padukone made history by becoming the first Indian actress to be honoured with a prestigious star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. 

The announcement was made on Wednesday at a press conference in Hollywood, with Deepika’s name included among global heavyweights such as Miley Cyrus, Timothée Chalamet, and Sherri Shepherd, who are all set to be inducted in the upcoming year.

The recognition marks a milestone in Deepika’s international journey, which includes her debut in xXx: Return of Xander Cage, appearances at global events like the Met Gala and Oscars.

While the announcement was met with immense joy from fans around the world, it also led to debates about whether stars can buy their way onto the Walk of Fame.

Contrary to popular belief, celebrities cannot buy a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The selection is made entirely by the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce’s selection panel, which reviews hundreds of nominations every year before finalising the honorees.

However, once a celebrity is selected, there is a sponsorship fee of $85,000 (approximately Rs 73 lakh) that must be paid. This cost is not a bribe or a purchase, but a fee used to cover: — The creation and installation of the star, — Long-term maintenance and upkeep of the star on Hollywood Boulevard, — Production of the official unveiling ceremony.

As stated on the Walk of Fame’s official website, “The fee is used to pay for the creation and installation of the star, as well as maintenance of the Walk of Fame.” Also, this amount is typically covered by the star’s management, studio, record label, or fan clubs — not necessarily the celebrity themselves.