Stars Serve for a Cause: Bhumi Pednekar and Parul Gulati Back PadelPark x YODA Animal Fundraiser

Mumbai, May 13, 2026: Actor Bhumi Pednekar and entrepreneur-actor Parul Gulati, came together to support animal welfare at a first-of-its-kind charity padel event hosted by PadelPark India in association with YODA (Youth Organisation In Defence Of Animals).

Held at Phoenix HSBC Racquet Club, the event marked one of India’s largest fundraisers for animal welfare, powered by the country’s fastest-growing sport. The high-visibility charity sports evening brought together celebrities, athletes, creators, and the city’s social community to drive awareness, community participation, and donations, raising over ₹12 lakh in funds. The event witnessed a footfall of over 500 attendees, with participation from 150 players

The evening’s prime-time showcase saw the spotlight shift to celebrity exhibition matches, pro knockouts, and brand exhibition games, drawing peak engagement from the crowd as familiar faces took to the court in support of the cause. The blend of competitive sport and star power created a charged atmosphere that captured the spirit of the initiative. From giving a warm welcome to guests to a curated soft opening, the event created an ambience of relaxation as they enjoyed live music with good food, along with immersive experiential zones designed to set the tone for an evening of community and purpose.

Speaking on the occasion, Nikhil Sachdev, Co-Founder, PadelPark India, said, “Padel for Paws was more than just a sporting event. It was a celebration of community, compassion, and collective impact. Partnering with YODA allowed us to channel the energy of our sport into a cause that truly matters. We are grateful to every player, partner, and supporter who showed up for the animals.”

As one of the country’s most respected animal welfare NGOs, YODA’s goal is to rescue stray and abandoned animals and ensure their rehabilitation and rehoming, alongside community awareness and advocacy initiatives.

Akarsh Hebbar, Co-Founder, YODA, added, “Initiatives like Padel for Paws shine a much-needed light on animal welfare and create platforms where awareness translates into action. We thank PadelPark for their commitment to the cause.”

Through Padel for Paws, PadelPark India, and YODA aim to build a long-standing alliance between sport and social impact, one that turns courts into catalysts for change. Together, the partnership seeks to raise sustained awareness around animal welfare, mobilize critical resources for the rescue and rehabilitation of stray and abandoned animals, and inspire India’s growing padel community to play an active role in causes that extend beyond the game.