Ranbir Kapoor and Deepika Padukone were once Bollywood’s most beloved couple, captivating fans and the media alike with their electric on- and off-screen chemistry. Their romance blossomed during the making of Bachna Ae Haseeno in 2008, quickly becoming one of the industry’s most discussed love stories.
The couple’s love affair lasted for nearly two years, from 2008 to 2010, during which they were often seen together at award shows, movie premieres, and on romantic dates. Their bond appeared unbreakable, and Deepika even took the bold step of getting Ranbir’s initials, ‘RK’, tattooed on the nape of her neck as a symbol of her love.
This public display of affection further solidified their status as Bollywood’s golden couple.
However, their relationship took an unexpected turn when rumors surfaced in 2009 about Ranbir’s involvement with other women. These reports caused a storm in the media, and despite Deepika and Ranbir’s attempts to work through their issues, the relationship came to an end.
The breakup left their immense fanbase shattered, as the duo had been seen as the epitome of love and chemistry. It seemed like the love story that everyone had hoped would end in marriage was now over.
Despite the emotional toll of their breakup, Deepika and Ranbir chose to work together again on their 2013 film Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani, and their decision paid off. The film went on to become a massive hit, adored by audiences across the globe, and is still considered one of Bollywood’s best films, the film was re-released in the theatres today, January 3 and eyes an opening of Rs 3 crores.
However, during the promotional events for the movie, their past was inevitably brought up, especially in interviews where reporters couldn’t resist asking about their relationship and breakup. One of the most notable incidents occurred during the trailer launch of Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani, when a reporter questioned Deepika about the ‘RK’ tattoo. The question left the actress visibly uncomfortable, and she was unsure how to respond.
The reporter asked, "People say that one does anything for love but people also do anything for promotions. Keeping this in mind, for promotions, will you show off your tattoo? Like the one on your neck?"
Before Deepika could respond, Ranbir, ever the protector, quickly intervened. He stepped in to defend Deepika and reprimanded the reporter for asking such a personal question at a professional event. Ranbir didn’t hold back, teaching the reporter a lesson about ethics and decorum in journalism.
He said, “I think yeh bahut hi kamaal ka behuda sawaal hai. Deepika ne tattoo promotion ke liye nahi lagaya hai. It’s really, really silly and I really pray for you ke aap jab jayenge waapas office mein toh they welcome you with open arms as a hero that you asked this question at this press conference. We also have a life, we have a personal life. When you ask a question like this and when Deepika will reply, that will become a news article. So I think it’s best that you could also have a little bit of dignity at a press conference and not bring up questions like these. I am sorry if I’ve stepped the line like this."
Ranbir’s words were a clear indication of how the actors had moved on from their past and now prioritized mutual respect, both personally and professionally. While the public may have been curious about their past, both Ranbir and Deepika had learned to navigate their relationship with grace, understanding, and maturity.
In a 2010 appearance on Koffee With Karan, Deepika was asked about her ‘RK’ tattoo, and she opened up about her feelings regarding the permanent reminder of her past relationship.
Deepika shared that she never regretted getting the tattoo, stating that it was a decision she made at the time, during a period when she was deeply in love. She also emphasized that she had no intention of removing the tattoo, even after the relationship ended. Deepika explained that, in her eyes, the tattoo was a part of her past, and she never felt the need to erase it.
“It was a correct decision back in the time when I was dating, but even after we parted ways, I never thought about taking it off,” she said.
However, in a twist that puzzled many fans, Deepika was spotted at the Mumbai airport with her then-husband, Ranveer Singh, soon after their wedding, and her ‘RK’ tattoo was mysteriously missing. While some speculated that Deepika had removed or modified the tattoo, the truth remains unclear. Whether she had the tattoo altered or simply chose to get rid of it altogether remains a mystery, and Deepika has never publicly commented on it again.
Their journey, transitioning from a high-profile romance to mature professionals who support each other despite their history, reflects growth and mutual respect. Deepika and Ranbir’s story highlights that while personal relationships may change, the admiration and camaraderie they share can persist, both on and off the screen. Fans treasure their candid interactions and interviews, appreciating a partnership that, though brief, was rich with lessons in love, resilience, and professional grace.
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