In a recent episode of ‘Pariksha Pe Charcha 2025’, Bollywood actress Deepika Padukone engaged with students to discuss the importance of mental health. Reflecting on her own school days, she shared, “I was a very naughty child. I used to jump on sofas, tables, and chairs.” She emphasized the significance of expressing oneself, especially during stressful times, and candidly admitted, “I was very weak in Maths and still am.” Deepika highlighted a lesson from Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s book, ‘Exam Warriors’, stating, “As Narendra Modi ji has written in his book ‘Exam Warriors’, ‘Express, never suppress.'” She encouraged students to communicate their feelings with friends, family, parents, and teachers, suggesting journaling as an effective method of self-expression.
Deepika also opened up about her personal battle with depression, underscoring the importance of mental well-being. She engaged students in an activity, asking them to identify and write down one of their strengths. Expressing gratitude, she thanked Prime Minister Modi for the opportunity to interact with students and wished them success in their examinations. The full episode is scheduled to air on February 12.
Deepika Padukone has been a prominent advocate for mental health awareness in India. In 2015, she founded the Live Love Laugh Foundation after her personal experience with anxiety and depression. The foundation aims to create awareness about mental health, reduce the stigma associated with mental illness, and provide credible mental health resources.
Recently, Deepika marked a decade of her commitment to mental health advocacy. Reflecting on her journey, she stated, “It was the most painful thing I’ve ever experienced, but it made me a better person.” Through her foundation, she has reached over 200,000 students and 20,000 teachers in 31 cities across India, promoting mental well-being and providing support.
The ‘Pariksha Pe Charcha’ initiative, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, provides a platform for students, parents, and teachers to discuss exam-related stress and share tips for success. The 2025 edition features prominent personalities, including Sadhguru, boxer Mary Kom, and Paralympian Avani Lekhara, who join the Prime Minister in engaging with the youth.
Deepika’s participation in this initiative underscores the critical importance of mental health in the academic sphere. By sharing her personal experiences and offering practical advice, she aims to inspire students to prioritize their mental well-being and approach exams with a positive mindset.
By addressing mental health openly, Deepika Padukone continues to break the stigma surrounding mental illness and encourages students to seek help when needed. Her involvement in ‘Pariksha Pe Charcha’ highlights the significance of mental well-being in education and the need for supportive conversations around this topic.
