Prakash Padukone bonds with Saina Nehwal

As the world’s number three badminton player, Saina Nehwal returned to a rousing welcome in Chennai, Deepika’s dad — the badminton legend Prakash Padukone personally invited her over to his place in Bengaluru. His daughter Deepika and Anisha (who is about to turn to professional golf) might be there too.

“Prakash Padukone had always maintained that Saina is the best woman badminton player that India has ever produced. Prakash has asked her to come to a dinner at his house. In all probability, Saina will accept the invitation,” says a source.

Deepika, meanwhile, has already tweeted about wanting to play a game with Saina. “Saina Nehwal! congratulations!! way to go girl... let’s play a game when ur in mumbai next. been a while since I played..”, she tweeted.

Sources add, “Saina couldn’t call Prakash because she had to attend a media briefing. She will soon call. She is looking forward to meet him.”

Saina said at a press conference, “I have been training very hard and with more hard work I am sure to reach the top. I want to stay focused at my game to become number one. It is important for me to make my country proud.”