Bollywood actress Deepika Padukone is the brand new chairperson of MAMI (The Mumbai Academy of the Moving Image). The 'Padmaavat' actress has replaced film producer Kiran Rao as the chairperson. Speaking of her association with the academy, Deepika spoke to a leading daily, "It's an absolute honour and a huge responsibility. I believe in MAMI's vision and we are committed towards creating a community that cinema lovers and creators of a film passionate nation like ours truly deserve."

Sources suggest that Kiran stepped down as the chairperson of MAMI to stay focused for her film project. "I am delighted to welcome one of India's most loved film stars, Deepika Padukone as the new Chairperson," said the 'Dhobhi Ghat' director.

The Jio MAMI festival director Anupama Chopra shared the news on her Twitter account on Wednesday afternoon. In her post, Mrs. Chopra also congratulated Kiran Rao and wrote: "To new beginnings! Thank you Kiran for your faith and generosity and hard work. Excited to learn from and work with our new chairperson, the amazing Deepika Padukone."

Smriti Kiran, the creative director for the Jio MAMI Mumbai Film Festival also welcomed the "Padmaavat" actress on board and wrote: "The baton passes from one incredible woman to the next. Thank you Kiran Rao for everything. Thrilled to welcome MAMI's passionate and committed new Chairperson Deepika Padukone. Very excited to work with you to keep building the Academy!"