Bollywood superstar Deepika Padukone marked her 40th birthday on January 5, 2026, with a special initiative aimed at supporting the next generation of creative talent in India’s entertainment industry. Instead of a personal celebration, Padukone chose to launch The OnSet Program, a platform designed to identify, train, and provide opportunities for aspiring professionals working behind the camera in film, television, and advertising.
The program builds on her earlier platform, Create With Me, and reflects Padukone’s commitment to nurturing talent across multiple creative and technical disciplines. These include writing, directing, camera work, lighting, editing, sound design, art direction, costume design, makeup, hair styling, and production management. The initiative seeks to provide participants with structured learning experiences and practical exposure, bridging the gap between talent and professional opportunities.
Sharing the announcement via Instagram, Padukone said, “I’ve been reflecting on how to support incredible creative talent and give them a platform to be seen, heard, and experienced.” She described The OnSet Program as an experiential learning initiative where participants will not only receive guidance but also work on real projects, gaining hands-on experience and industry exposure.
The program aims to emphasize merit and skill, offering a pathway for talented individuals regardless of their background or industry connections. By creating an industry-facing platform, Padukone hopes to provide aspiring professionals with mentorship, networking opportunities, and practical knowledge that can help them launch sustainable careers in the entertainment sector.
Industry insiders and fans alike welcomed the initiative, noting that structured support like this can significantly lower entry barriers in a competitive field. With The OnSet Program, Padukone seeks to foster a culture of talent development that goes beyond traditional celebrity influence, focusing on skill-building and real-world experience.
Through her new initiative, she is extending her impact on the industry, nurturing future storytellers and creators who will shape the entertainment world in the years to come. In addition to this behind-the-scenes effort, Deepika Padukone continues to remain active in front of the camera, with several upcoming projects in both Indian and international markets.
