Once ‘depressed’ Deepika becomes India’s national wellness icon!!
Deepika Padukone who apparently conquered her bouts of self acknowledged depression and public heartbreak, now finds herself elevated to India’s first mental health ambassador. Her appointment by the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare was announced with much fanfare on World Mental Health Day, as if India had been waiting for an actress’s Instagram post to usher in a mental health revolution.
Social media lit up with congratulations and confusion. Supporters hailed Deepika as one of the few stars willing to speak about her struggles, citing her decade-old foundation and willingness to open up about therapy. Meanwhile, some critics wondered whether the country had run out of doctors or psychologists for the role.
Comments ranged from “Great, now all India needs is a few more brand ambassadors and the mental health crisis will just meditate itself away,” to “The collab that nobody wanted.” Some questioned what makes Bollywood the default face for every social issue, as if star power alone could fix systemic challenges.
Nevertheless, Deepika’s new responsibilities include joining hands with the government to raise awareness, reduce stigma and encourage the use of helplines, all while her fans and sceptics alike look on in wonder. For now, India’s mental health seems to hope on a ride not on a prescription pad or a medical degree, but on a red carpet.
