From Top Model to Forgotten Star: The Deepak Malhotra Story

A Missed Opportunity?

Imagine being chosen by the legendary Yash Chopra to launch your film career opposite a superstar like Sridevi. That was the reality for Deepak Malhotra, a successful model who seemed destined for stardom. But as his debut film, Lamhe, hit the screens, things took a dramatic turn.

The Rise of a Model

Deepak’s journey began in the mid-80s as a print and ramp model in Bangalore. His charm and charisma quickly made him the most sought-after male model in the city, and soon his fame spread across India. He became the face of popular brands, commanding a then-impressive ₹1.5 lakh per endorsement. With success in modeling, Deepak naturally transitioned to acting, carefully selecting Lamhe, a romantic drama directed by the acclaimed Yash Chopra, as his first foray into Bollywood.

A Debut to Forget

Lamhe, starring Sridevi, Anil Kapoor, Waheeda Rehman, and Anupam Kher, was highly anticipated. Deepak played Sridevi’s love interest and eventual husband, but unfortunately, the film failed to capture the hearts of audiences. Critics panned Deepak’s acting, highlighting his wooden screen presence. One scene in particular, where Deepak’s accent in the line ‘Pallo’ became a source of ridicule, cemented his image as a struggling actor.

The Backlash and its Consequences

The negative reception to Lamhe had a devastating impact on Deepak’s career. He was supposed to star in Yash Chopra’s next film, Darr, but the role went to Sunny Deol. He also lost out on other promising projects like Bekhudi, Suryavanshi, and Junoon to other actors. By 1993, offers dried up, and Deepak decided to leave India, moving to the US where he pursued modeling contracts and a new life.

A New Beginning

In New York City, Deepak reinvented himself, changing his name to Dino Martelli. He continued modeling and explored new horizons by studying industrial engineering and designing. In 2018, he established his own apparel brand, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit. Today, Dino lives a fulfilling life with his wife, model-turned-fashion choreographer Lubna Adam, and their two sons, Kian and Kyle, both of whom have followed in their father’s footsteps as models.

From Bollywood to Fashion

Deepak Malhotra’s story is a reminder that even those who start with great promise can face unexpected setbacks. His journey from a top model to a forgotten actor, followed by a successful reinvention in the fashion world, is a testament to his resilience and adaptability.