Deepika Padukone urges students to prioritise mental health in Pariksha Pe Charcha

Deepika Padukone in PPC 2025

The second episode of Pariksha Pe Charcha premiered today, February 12, at 10 am, featuring Indian actress, entrepreneur, and mental health advocate Deepika Padukone. The session, centered on the significance of mental health and student well-being, was streamed across multiple government platforms, including the Ministry of Education's YouTube channel, MyGov India, PM Modi's YouTube channel, Doordarshan channels, and live on All India Radio's Medium Wave and FM channels.

Deepika Padukone greeted the students with a warm smile. She started the conversation by sharing a humorous childhood memory: "I was a very naughty child. I would always climb onto tables, chairs, and sofas and jump off them." Transitioning to her academic experiences, she spoke openly about her struggles with exam stress, particularly in mathematics. "I used to get extremely stressed during exams, particularly because I was weak in math – a subject I still struggle with," she admitted.

The actress also discussed her personal journey with mental health, stressing the importance of seeking help and expressing emotions. She recounted a pivotal moment in her life when her relentless work schedule led to a breakdown. "I kept working continuously. But one day, I fell unconscious. After a couple of days, I realized I was suffering from depression," she revealed.

Padukone's advice to students was both straightforward and powerful. She emphasised the need to prioritise mental health and avoid bottling up emotions. "Always express, never suppress. Be it with anybody," she urged, encouraging students to communicate openly with family, friends, or teachers. She also referenced Prime Minister Narendra Modi's book, Exam Warriors, highlighting its key message: "Express, never suppress." She added, "Always express yourselves, whether it is with your friends, parents, teachers, or by journaling."

The episode struck a chord with students, offering practical guidance and a relatable perspective on managing exam stress and mental health. Deepika Padukone's participation in Pariksha Pe Charcha underscores the growing emphasis on addressing mental health challenges among students, marking a significant step toward creating a healthier and more supportive academic environment.