New Delhi, Sept 19 : Actor Deepika Padukone on Friday demanded that respect be accorded to women and slammed news organisations for constructing what she called "cheap headlines".

In an open letter posted on Facebook in response to the potentially damaging article posted about her in a national daily, Padukone said, "When an actress's inner wear decides to do a "peek-a-boo", she most definitely did not step out with the intention to do so. So, instead of zooming in, circling it and pointing arrows at it, why don't we give her some 'respect' and let it go instead of making it 'headlines'".

She also said that she was pained that such an article was published in a day and age where the fight for women's rights was so prevalent, adding, "I am not naive about my own profession; it is one that requires lots of demanding things of me. A character may demand that I be clothed from head to toe or be completely naked, and it will be my choice as an actor whether or not I take either. Understand that this is a ROLE and not REAL, and it is my job to portray whatever character I choose to play convincingly."

Padukone also professed a pride in her body but also said that her real life and the life of the characters she portrays should not be confused. "I have no issue celebrating my body and I have never shied away from anything on- screen to portray a character. In fact, my next character portrayed is a bar dancer who titillates men as a means to support her livelihood. My issue is you propagating the objectification of a real person, and not a character being played. Sure, dissect my characters if you wish, if it is of so much interest then discuss the character's cup size and leg length if it is relevant to making the role convincing. All I am asking for is respect as a woman off-screen."

Earlier this week, a national daily had posted a video on its website, pointing at the Bollywood star's plunging neckline with the caption: 'OMG! Deepika's Cleavage Show' to which the superstar took offence.

Posting her reply on a social networking website, Padukone said "YES! I am a Woman. I have breasts AND a cleavage! You got a problem!!??" adding, "Don't talk about Woman's Empowerment when YOU don't know how to RESPECT Women!"

The issue kept trending on Twitter with hundreds using the hashtag #istandbydeepikapadukone to support the Bollywood diva. (ANI)