Actor-producer Deepika Padukone marked her 40th birthday with a meaningful announcement, unveiling a new initiative aimed at mentoring and supporting emerging creative talent across India’s entertainment industry.

On January 5, Deepika Padukone announced the launch of The OnSet Program, a new platform designed to help young creatives gain hands-on industry experience.

The announcement was shared through a social media post accompanied by a video, in which the actor spoke about her growing desire to mentor newcomers.

‘The OnSet program’

In the video, Padukone explained the motivation behind the initiative and her focus on nurturing fresh voices.

“This past year, I’ve been feeling very strongly about identifying incredible creative talent from across the country and beyond 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 creative professionals.

In the caption of her post, Padukone described The OnSet Program as a passion project focused on experiential learning.

The initiative targets technicians and aspirants across multiple departments who want to build careers in Indian film, television, and advertising. Participants are encouraged to submit their work and personal stories for a chance to work alongside established industry professionals.

Announcement comes amid busy career

The launch coincides with an active period 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.