Deepika Padukone Launches Badminton School in Honour of Her Father Prakash Padukone’s 70th Birthday

Actor Deepika Padukone announced the launch of the Padukone School of Badminton (PSB) dedicating to her father, legendary badminton player Prakash Padukone’s 70th birthday. Taking to Instagram, Deepika shared the news with a heartfelt message dedicated to her father, celebrating both his legacy and their shared love for the sport.

“As someone who grew up playing badminton, I’ve seen how deeply this sport can impact a person — physically, mentally, and emotionally,” she wrote. “With the Padukone School of Badminton, our goal is to bring the joy and discipline of the game to people from all walks of life. We want to help shape a generation that’s healthier, more focused, and inspired by sport.”

She continued her message with a warm tribute: “Pappa, everyone who knows you knows how much badminton means to you. Even at 70, you still live and breathe the sport. We’re committed to turning your lifelong passion into a reality: Badminton for All. Happy 70th Birthday, Pappa!”

According to an official press release, PSB has already set up more than 75 grassroots coaching centres across 18 cities in India—including Bengaluru, NCR, Mumbai, Chennai, Jaipur, Pune, Nashik, Mysuru, Panipat, Dehradun, Udaipur, Coimbatore, Sangli, and Surat—in its first year. The school plans to grow rapidly, aiming to expand to 250 centres by 2027.

Deepika described this initiative as her way of contributing to a healthier, fitter, and more sports-oriented India. “Badminton has played a huge role in shaping who I am. Through PSB, I hope we can pass on that same joy and sense of discipline to many more people.”

Her father, former World No. 1 and All-England Champion Prakash Padukone, has joined PSB as a mentor and advisor. Reflecting on the importance of sport, he said: “Sport teaches discipline, resilience, and a winning mindset that goes far beyond the court. With PSB, we want to make high-quality coaching affordable and accessible, starting from the grassroots, and build a strong foundation for the future of Indian badminton.”

The goal is simple at Padukone School of Badminton (PSB)- to make badminton a sport that anyone can enjoy — no matter your age, background, or skill level.

A team with over 100 certified coaches and world-class facilities, PSB is about more than just improving your game.