Deepika Padukone’s groundbreaking decision to open up about her personal battle with clinical depression remains a watershed moment for mental health awareness in India. In a rare and reflective interview, her father and badminton legend, Prakash Padukone, shared insights into the family’s perspective when she first decided to go public, revealing how a deeply personal tragedy solidified her resolve to spark a national conversation.
Speaking on The Something Bigger Show with Rodrigo Canelas, Prakash Padukone detailed the moment Deepika approached her parents, and how her mission evolved into a lasting legacy.
Overcoming Stigma with Family Backing
When Deepika first decided to share her diagnosis on national television, public discussions around mental illness in India were heavily stigmatized. However, her parents, Prakash and Ujjala Padukone, did not hesitate to stand by her.
“We were fully supportive. She came to us and discussed it, and we had no objections at all. If sharing her experience could help others, we felt it was a positive thing to do.”
The Turning Point: A Friend’s Tragic Passing
While speaking out was her first step, her determination to create a structured, long-term support ecosystem was catalyzed by a heartbreaking loss. Mr. Padukone revealed that the death of a close friend became the definitive turning point for the actor.
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A Solidified Purpose: “Later, after one of her friends passed away, she became even more determined to create awareness about mental health,” Mr. Padukone explained.
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The Birth of LiveLoveLaugh: This profound loss shifted her perspective from simply sharing a personal story to building an institutional lifeline. In 2015, she formally founded the LiveLoveLaugh Foundation to destigmatize mental illness and provide credible, accessible resources for those struggling in silence.
Essential Lessons in Well-Being
Reflecting on his daughter’s advocacy, Prakash Padukone admitted that he, too, learned valuable lessons about holistic health through her experiences.
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Interconnected Health: “I learned that mental and physical health must always come first. You need proper rest, a healthy diet, exercise, and ways to manage stress. Everything is connected.”
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The Danger of Isolation: He emphasized that early intervention is key and urged individuals not to mask emotional pain. “The worst thing is to keep everything bottled up inside because that is when problems can grow. If you are struggling, talk to someone—a friend, a family member, or a professional.”
A Lasting Legacy Beyond Cinema
While Deepika Padukone remains one of Indian cinema’s most successful actors, her father believes her contribution to public health will outlast her box-office achievements.
“Besides being known for her acting career, I believe she will also be remembered for the work she has done in the field of mental health. Sometimes the impact of such initiatives is only fully appreciated years later, but I think she has made a meaningful difference.”
