Vijay Mallya Says Deepika Padukone, Katrina Kaif Were Right Girls for Kingfisher Calendar

In a recent interview, businessman Vijay Mallya reflected on the iconic Kingfisher Calendar and its influence in launching the careers of several successful models and actresses. Speaking during a conversation with entrepreneur Raj Shamani, Mallya proudly stated that Bollywood stars Deepika Padukone and Katrina Kaif were among the best talents to be featured in the calendar, calling them “the right girls” for the brand.

The Kingfisher Calendar, launched in 2003, quickly became one of the most sought-after modeling platforms in India. With its glamorous beach shoots and high-profile visibility, it was not just a showcase of beauty but also a stepping stone into the world of entertainment. Mallya explained that the calendar was not merely about glitz and glamour—it was about recognizing potential and launching new faces into stardom.

According to Mallya, the calendar’s success lay in its ability to identify future stars. “We picked well. We picked the right talent,” he said, referring to Deepika Padukone and Katrina Kaif. Both actresses featured in the Kingfisher Calendar before achieving massive fame in Bollywood. Deepika, now considered one of the most talented and versatile actresses in Indian cinema, began her career as a model and featured in the 2006 edition of the calendar. Katrina Kaif also modeled for the Kingfisher brand in her early days and quickly gained attention for her striking looks and presence.

Mallya expressed pride in having given these women a platform early in their careers. He stated that being featured in the calendar gave them significant visibility and helped them land opportunities in the film and fashion industries. “It’s a matter of pride that the calendar gave birth to so many successful careers,” he said. The businessman emphasized that the selection process was rigorous and aimed at finding individuals who had the potential to go far beyond modeling.

The Kingfisher Calendar was not just about visual appeal; it became a cultural phenomenon in the early 2000s, blending luxury, style, and aspirational content. Shot by ace photographer Atul Kasbekar, it was known for its world-class production quality and exotic shoot locations. Over the years, it became synonymous with sophistication and high fashion, and being a Kingfisher Calendar girl became a dream for many aspiring models.

Mallya also noted that the calendar’s influence extended beyond India’s borders, drawing international attention and adding prestige to the Indian modeling industry. Despite the controversies surrounding him in recent years, Mallya took a moment during the interview to reflect on his contribution to the fashion and entertainment industries through this initiative.

Today, Deepika Padukone and Katrina Kaif are not only established actresses but also global icons with multiple endorsements, awards, and critical acclaim. Their association with the Kingfisher Calendar remains a notable chapter in their journey to stardom. Vijay Mallya’s remarks serve as a reminder of how impactful the calendar was in shaping the trajectories of two of Bollywood’s most successful actresses.