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On World Mental Health Day (October 10, 2025), Bollywood star Deepika Padukone was named as India’s first-ever Mental Health Ambassador by the Union Ministry of Health & Family Welfare. This new role is a step toward pushing mental health into the spotlight and helping people across India take their emotional well-being seriously.
Deepika has long been a voice for mental health. She founded The Live Love Laugh Foundation (TLLLF) in 2015 after her own public journey with depression. Through her foundation, she has encouraged open conversations, helped create awareness programs, and worked to reduce the stigma around mental illness.
In her role as ambassador, Deepika will partner with the health ministry to promote mental health education, destigmatization efforts, and support national programs like Tele MANAS (Tele-Mental Health Assistance & Networking Across States). She spoke with humility and determination: she said she is “deeply honoured” by this appointment and is committed to strengthening India’s mental health framework.
Union Health Minister J. P. Nadda said Deepika’s involvement will help bring mental health into the mainstream making it as important as physical health. The government hopes that her personal story and strong public presence will help more people feel safe to talk about their feelings and seek help.
This move comes at a critical moment. India faces large gaps in mental health access and acceptance. Many people suffering silently may now find a more welcoming environment to seek help. With a respected public figure like Deepika stepping in, the hope is that mental wellness becomes part of everyday conversation not just in clinics, but in homes, schools, and workplaces.
Deepika’s appointment signals that India is ready to treat mental health as an essential pillar of public health. Her journey from personal struggle to national advocate makes her a powerful symbol of hope. As she steps into this role, many will watch how her influence changes not only policies but hearts and minds across the country.
