MUMBAI – Actor-producer Deepika Padukone celebrated her 40th birthday by launching The OnSet Program, a new initiative to mentor and support emerging talent in India’s entertainment industry.
Announced on January 5 through social media, The OnSet Program aims to provide hands-on experience to young professionals across film, television, and advertising. Deepika shared a video alongside her post, explaining her motivation to nurture fresh creative voices.
“This past year, I’ve been feeling very strongly about identifying incredible creative talent and giving them a platform to be seen, heard and experienced,” she said. She added that she was “beyond thrilled” to introduce audiences to the next generation of industry professionals.
The OnSet Program focuses on experiential learning, giving participants an opportunity to work alongside established technicians and creative teams. The initiative invites aspirants from multiple departments to submit their work and personal stories to be considered for mentorship and project collaborations.
Padukone described the program as a passion project, highlighting her commitment to supporting creative talent. The program also aims to bridge the gap between aspiring professionals and industry exposure, offering practical experience that is often hard to obtain.
The launch comes amid a busy phase in Padukone’s career. She is set to star in director Atlee’s upcoming sci-fi film with Allu Arjun, tentatively titled AA22 x A6. She will also appear in King, directed by Siddharth Anand and starring Shah Rukh Khan. Padukone was last seen in the pan-India release Kalki 2898 AD.
Industry experts praised The OnSet Program, noting that it could significantly impact the growth of creative talent in India. By providing real-world experience, participants are expected to gain skills, exposure, and mentorship that can accelerate their careers.
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With this initiative, Deepika Padukone is not only marking her milestone birthday but also leaving a lasting contribution to India’s entertainment industry. The OnSet Program is now open for applications from aspiring creatives nationwide.
