Deepika Padukone Becomes India’s First Mental Health Ambassador

In a landmark move, Bollywood actor Deepika Padukone has been appointed as India’s first-ever Mental Health Ambassador by the Union Ministry of Health & Family Welfare (MoHFW). This appointment highlights a growing focus on mental health in India and signals a stronger push toward creating a supportive environment for well-being.

Padukone, who founded The Live Love Laugh (LLL) Foundation in 2015, has long been a vocal advocate for mental health awareness. Her journey, both personal and professional, has inspired millions to confront mental health challenges without shame.

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Promoting Awareness and Reducing Stigma

As the Mental Health Ambassador, Deepika will collaborate with the ministry to promote mental health education, support de-stigmatisation initiatives, and encourage more Indians to seek help. She will also advocate for government-led programmes like Tele MANAS, aimed at providing accessible mental health support across the country.

Reflecting on her journey, Deepika shared, “Ten years ago, it was about helping people realise that what they’re feeling has a name and that it’s okay to seek help. When people tell me, ‘You’ve saved a life,’ it’s a feeling that cannot be compared.”

Blending Tradition with Modern Care

Deepika emphasised that the future of mental health in India lies in combining scientific approaches with traditional practices such as yoga and meditation. She envisions a society where mental health awareness is as commonplace as daily routines, much like popular pastimes such as gully cricket.

Her appointment represents a crucial step toward normalising conversations around mental health, making it a part of public dialogue, and ensuring that people across India feel supported and understood.