Actor and producer Deepika Padukone marked her 40th birthday with a meaningful professional milestone. She announced the launch of The OnSet Program, a new initiative designed to mentor emerging creative talent across India’s entertainment industry. The announcement highlighted her growing commitment to nurturing the next generation of filmmakers and technicians.
The program was officially unveiled on January 5 through a social media post accompanied by a short video. In the message, Padukone shared her personal motivation behind the initiative. She explained that her experiences over the past year pushed her toward supporting untapped creative voices. As a result, the platform focuses on learning through real industry exposure.
According to Padukone, The OnSet Program aims to provide hands-on experience rather than theoretical guidance alone. She emphasised the importance of being seen, heard, and understood within professional environments. Moreover, she expressed excitement about introducing fresh talent to established industry workflows.
In her message, she described the initiative as a passion project built around experiential learning. The program targets aspiring technicians and creatives from multiple departments. These include film, television, and advertising sectors. Participants are encouraged to submit their work along with personal stories. Selected candidates will gain the opportunity to work alongside experienced professionals on active sets.
The initiative reflects a broader shift in Padukone’s role within the industry. Over the years, she has moved beyond acting into production and mentorship. Consequently, The OnSet Program aligns with her long-term vision of industry development. It also addresses the lack of structured entry points for newcomers.
The announcement comes during a particularly active phase of her career. She is set to appear in a science-fiction film directed by Atlee alongside Allu Arjun. The project is currently titled AA22 x A6. Additionally, she will star in King, directed by Siddharth Anand and featuring Shah Rukh Khan.
Padukone was last seen in the pan-India release Kalki 2898 AD. Despite a packed schedule, she continues to invest time in initiatives beyond acting. Her latest move signals a deeper engagement with shaping the future of Indian entertainment.
With The OnSet Program, Deepika Padukone positions herself as both a creator and mentor. The initiative could redefine how young talent enters the industry. As interest grows, the program may become a significant platform for creative discovery in India.
