Mumbai, June 10, 2025 — In a major step towards promoting grassroots sports development in India, Bollywood actor and former national-level badminton player Deepika Padukone has announced the launch of the Padukone School of Badminton. The initiative, named after her father and legendary Indian badminton player Prakash Padukone, aims to nurture young sporting talent and encourage a culture of health and fitness among the youth.
Addressing the media at the launch event, Padukone stated, “This initiative is close to my heart. With the Padukone School of Badminton, I hope to build a healthier and more active generation by making sports accessible to all, especially children.”
The school will initially open in cities like Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Delhi, with future plans to expand across the country. According to an official statement, the centres will provide world-class badminton facilities, certified coaching staff, and comprehensive training programs. The curriculum will also include nutritional guidance, mental conditioning, and character-building activities, aiming for the holistic development of each student.
The initiative is being launched in collaboration with the Prakash Padukone Badminton Academy and will receive support from private partners and sponsors. Special focus will be placed on inclusivity, with scholarships and outreach programs designed to identify and support underprivileged but talented young athletes.
Deepika Padukone, who trained in badminton before entering the film industry, emphasized the role of sports in shaping discipline, resilience, and mental strength. She noted that the project is not only about producing elite athletes but also about fostering lifelong healthy habits and values.
Industry experts and sports authorities have welcomed the initiative, highlighting its potential to strengthen India’s grassroots sports ecosystem.
The Padukone School of Badminton is expected to align with national efforts to increase youth participation in sports and improve overall fitness levels. With Deepika Padukone personally leading the project, the initiative carries both credibility and emotional appeal, signaling a new era of sports-focused social engagement led by public figures.
The school is scheduled to commence operations later this year, beginning with enrollment drives and talent scouting across urban and semi-urban regions.
