Be exam warriors, not worriers... Deepika Padukone on PPC

The second episode of Pariksha Pe Charcha 2025 aired on Wednesday, February 12, at 10 AM, featuring Bollywood actress, entrepreneur, and mental health advocate Deepika Padukone. The episode was streamed live across multiple platforms, including the Ministry of Education’s YouTube channel, MyGov India, PM Modi’s official YouTube channel, Doordarshan, and All India Radio.

Deepika, known for her candid discussions on mental health, engaged with students on crucial topics such as exam stress, emotional well-being, and the importance of seeking support when needed. Reflecting on her childhood, she described herself as a "naughty child" who loved climbing onto tables and jumping off them. She also shared her own struggles with academics, admitting, “I used to get extremely stressed during exams, particularly because I was weak in math – a subject I still struggle with.”

Addressing student concerns about exam-related pressure and anxiety, Deepika offered insightful advice on overcoming stress and self-doubt. She shared her experience with being depressed and feeling on edge. She talked to the students “Being competitive is not a bad thing, but constantly underestimating yourself and feeling overwhelmed by pressure isn’t healthy. Talk about your worries, identify the root cause of your stress, and share your feelings with someone you trust. You’ll realise that opening up helps you find ways to overcome challenges.”

During the discussion, Deepika explored practical strategies and small activities to help students manage stress, build resilience, and maintain a balanced approach to academics and life. PPC 2025, now in its eighth edition, has introduced a refreshed format, featuring personalities from diverse fields to mentor students as they prepare for their board exams. Upcoming episodes will cover topics such as nutrition, sports discipline, technology and finance, creativity, mindfulness, and success stories.