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Indian Americans root for Mindy Kaling as she gets Walk of Fame star

Mindy Kaling has created history by being the first South Asian woman to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Here's how the Indian American community reacted to the news.

Mindy Kaling. / Facebook/Mindy Kaling

February 18 marked a momentous occasion for actress, writer and producer Mindy Kaling as she received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, a tribute to her remarkable career and influence. Adding to the significance of the honor, Kaling learned that she is the first South Asian woman to receive this recognition, a fact she acknowledged with both humility and pride. 

Kaling expressed her hope that this milestone will inspire future generations of South Asian artists. Taking to Instagram she wrote, “Yesterday was one of the most special days of my life! I was surrounded by my dearest friends and family for the surreal and humbling experience of receiving a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. I was told after receiving my star that I was the first South Asian woman to have a star on the Walk of Fame. I’m humbled by that. I am so proud to be South Asian and I want to make my community proud of everything I do but more importantly I want to help usher in the next generation of South Asian stars - who are already making a huge impact across the world.” 

From her early days as a writer and actress on The Office, where she portrayed the well-loved character of Kelly Kapoor, Kaling has been a trailblazer. Her behind-the-scenes work on the show was equally significant, as she became one of the few women, and even fewer women of color, working in a writers’ room at that time. This success paved the way for her to create and star in The Mindy Project, where she portrayed Dr. Mindy Lahiri, a stylish and funny OB-GYN navigating the complexities of her professional and personal life.   

Kaling's impact extends beyond her acting roles. As the creator and producer of hit shows such as Never Have I Ever and The Sex Lives of College Girls, she has always advocated for diverse and multifaceted female characters, transforming representation in Hollywood and providing audiences with authentic narratives centered on South Asian and female experiences. 

In addition to her professional achievements, Kaling is a dedicated mother of three, often sharing glimpses into her life as a parent.  Balancing motherhood with a career, she continues to break barriers and serve as an inspiration to many.   

Mindy Kaling's contributions were recognized and celebrated by the Indian American community, especially those in the film industry. Priyanka Chopra Jonas shared a video of Mindy receiving her star on her Instagram Stories. In the caption, she wrote: “First South Asian woman to get a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame! Queen. Congratulations Mindy Kaling so well deserved.”

“Over the years I’ve gotten to know her, I’ve gotten to see more and more how much she operates from a place of pure love and how she’s had to fight with both grit and grace to earn her seat at the table (and this star) in ways others never had to. She’s not just a star, she’s a warrior, and so many of us in this industry owe everything to her. Congratulations Mindy Kaling, yes this is for all brown women everywhere, but also- it’s for YOU,” added actress Richa Moorjani. 

“It’s hard to put into words what today felt like - her accomplishments are so long that I stopped videotaping half way through them because my arm actually hurt. But under the tent we were gathered in today, we witnessed and celebrated a woman whose actions, character and sheer essence is an inspiration to us all. Mindy is a powerhouse, but also one of the most authentic, funniest and kindest people you’ll ever meet,” concluded actress Poorna Jagannathan.

With her star now permanently set in the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Mindy Kaling solidifies her legacy as a pioneer in the entertainment industry. Her journey is far from over, and her future endeavors are eagerly anticipated.

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