On World Mental Health Day, October 10, 2025, Deepika Padukone was appointed as the first-ever Mental Health Ambassador by the Union Ministry of Health & Family Welfare (MoHFW). This appointment marks a significant step towards prioritizing mental health and strengthening the nation's mental health framework. The announcement was met with widespread praise, including a heartfelt reaction from her husband, Ranveer Singh, who expressed his pride with a simple yet powerful, "So proud of you ❤️".
Deepika Padukone shared her sentiments on Instagram, expressing deep honor in her new role. She acknowledged the meaningful steps taken by the nation, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, to place mental health at the heart of public health. She further added that through her own journey and the work of her foundation, The Live Love Laugh Foundation (TLLLF), she has witnessed the potential of collective efforts in building a mentally healthy India. Deepika conveyed her eagerness to collaborate with Shri J.P. Nadda and the MoHFW to enhance India's mental health framework.
Union Minister of Health & Family Welfare, J.P. Nadda, emphasized that Deepika's ambassadorship would significantly raise awareness about mental health issues, normalize discussions to reduce stigma, and highlight mental health as an integral aspect of public health. The ministry also stated that this partnership marks an important step towards promoting mental health across the country.
Deepika's role as Mental Health Ambassador will involve collaborating closely with the Ministry to promote awareness, support de-stigmatization efforts, encourage individuals to seek help and adopt preventive measures, and advocate for government-endorsed mental health resources like Tele MANAS (Tele-Mental Health Assistance and Networking Across States).
Deepika Padukone has been a vocal advocate for mental health awareness for many years. In 2015, after seeking professional help for her own struggles with depression, she founded The Live Love Laugh Foundation (TLLLF). The foundation aims to create awareness about mental health, reduce the stigma associated with mental illness, and provide access to credible mental health resources. TLLLF has several initiatives, including a rural community mental health program that has established care pathways for over 21,931 people and their caregivers in 15 districts across eight states over the past decade. The foundation has also spearheaded public awareness campaigns like "Dobara Poocho" and "#NotAshamed".
On the work front, Deepika was last seen in Singham Again, which featured her husband Ranveer Singh and other prominent actors. She will be seen next in King, with Shah Rukh Khan, and Allu Arjun's next film with Atlee.
