Deepika Padukone launches badminton school on father’s birthday, 100 centres planned by year-end

Actor Deepika Padukone announced the launch of the Padukone School of Badminton (PSB) on her father Prakash Padukone’s 70th birthday. She shared the news via her official Instagram account, dedicating an emotional note to her father, a celebrated badminton legend. Deepika will serve as the founder of the initiative, while Prakash Padukone will mentor and advise the programme.

PSB will begin with 75 coaching centres across 18 cities including Bengaluru, NCR, Mumbai, Chennai, Pune, Jaipur, Nashik, Mysuru, Panipat, and Surat. The initiative plans to reach 100 centres by the end of 2025, and expand to 250 in three years, with the aim of building strong grassroots-level infrastructure in Indian badminton.

In her post, Deepika wrote, “As someone who grew up playing badminton, I’ve experienced firsthand how much this sport can shape one’s life – physically, mentally, and emotionally. Through Padukone School of Badminton (PSB), we hope to bring the joy and discipline of badminton to people from all walks of life, and build a generation that is healthier, more focused, and inspired by sport.”

Wishing her father, she added, “Pappa, those who know you well, know your passion for this sport. That even at 70, all you do is eat, sleep and breathe badminton. And we are committed to making your passion a reality: Badminton for All! Happy 70th Birthday Pappa.”

PSB will collaborate with schools, institutions, and community venues to open training centres, supported by three High-Performance Centres in Bengaluru. Over 100 certified coaches have already been trained to ensure uniform and quality coaching across all locations.