Giving us the insights into how Deepika Padukone grew up, Deepika's school teacher Dr. Ashley William Joseph pens a heartfelt note for the actress.

Dr. Ashley shares, "A hard worker, simple soul and who knew what she always wanted to do was Deepu.

Firstly, I am so proud of the way Deepu has grown up in life and on-screen too. It feels good that one of my students is now India's superstar.

Deepika or Deepu, as I call her, was my student for over 7 years in Bangalore. She was not only a good sportsperson but brilliant on stage too, be it dancing, singing or acting. She was also part of the Sophia Brass Ensemble and Choir which was the best in the country. I can still remember her beautiful Soprano Voice singing in the Choir. I do hope one day I would get to work on her voice again and she brings out her own album.

For those who don't know, Deepu has a lovely elegant voice and I do wish to see her using that singing voice again. As for musical productions, the last one Deepu did with me Directing was 'Fiddler on the Roof'- one of the most famous Broadway productions, that was a big hit in Bangalore.
Coming from a famous family, Deepika was humble and simple which was such a beautiful trait in her.
Rewind to the year 2002, some of my old students were putting up a dance drama and wanted me to help them clean it up. None other than Deepu was a part of the Dance team.
A hard worker, simple soul who knew what she always wanted to do was Deepika. I am still trying to remember the day when she did not have a smile on her face.
Deepu, you have reached the stars, you have achieved it all, remember you do not need to prove anything to anyone, just live your dream and continue reaching for the stars. You are already that beautiful star in the sky.
It is your hard work and dedication that has made you what you are today. As you start this new chapter in your life being married, just remember that the roads are always not smooth, negotiate each curve and the steep climb with love and the utmost care, there is always that happiness in your destination.
As your beloved teacher, I will always be there for you, to lend support in whatever way you require.
For the little child in you, I would say- Happy Children's day to you Deepu and God bless you for all that you do.
Much love
Dr. Ashley William Joseph
President & Resident Conductor - Indian National Symphony Orchestra
Chairman, William Joseph Music Foundation
Director 100-year old Bangalore Musical Association".


Earlier also, Deepika had received heartwarming notes from her loved ones but this indeed is even more special as the words come from the teacher of Bollywood's leading lady much closer to the day marks as Teacher's day, soon.

Recently, Deepika featured back to back on the International covers and the actress has slayed and how. Both the magazines have given us back to back cover looks of Deepika where she continues her rule, taking the nation on the world map as always.

Deepika is known for her versatile choice of films and her role for Chhapaak of 'Lakshmi' is proof that the actress is a perfect blend of a critically and commercially proven actor who has essayed a variety of strong and powerful roles. She has actively been involved in prepping for both the characters and is grasping the nuances so as to get into the skin of both which also happen to be in stark contrast with each other.

The year 2020 will be special as both her upcoming films are releasing in the same year and interestingly, both the characters Laxmi Agarwal and Romi Dev are real-life characters with the heavy background behind them, making it a year of promising portrayals by the actress.