Somy Ali on mental health crisis: Parveen Babi would still be alive today if...

Mental health awareness has been a growing conversation in the entertainment industry, yet it remains a stigmatized topic. Somy Ali, actress and activist, recently shared her insights on the mental health struggles faced by individuals in the industry, touching upon both personal and public battles.

Highlighting the case of Bollywood legend Parveen Babi, Somy Ali emphasized how systemic failures and societal ignorance contributed to her tragic demise.

Her words also reflected on the bravery of contemporary actors like Deepika Padukone, who have spoken openly about their mental health battles, advocating for change.

Parveen Babi: A Case of Ignored Struggles

Parveen Babi, an iconic figure of Bollywood in the 1970s and 80s, remains a haunting reminder of how mental health crises, if left unattended, can lead to devastating outcomes.

Babi suffered from paranoid schizophrenia; a condition poorly understood at the time. Speaking about this, Somy Ali remarked, “If someone had taken a stand decades ago, perhaps Parveen Babi would still be alive today, taking her medication for paranoid schizophrenia.”

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Deepika Padukone: A Catalyst for Change

In stark contrast to the past, Deepika Padukone has emerged as a trailblazer in addressing mental health openly. Somy Ali acknowledged the actress’s efforts to bring this issue to the forefront, stating, “When Deepika Padukone spoke about her struggles on a public forum, it was a groundbreaking moment—not just for the industry but for the world.”

However, this path has not been without its challenges. Ali noted the backlash Padukone faced, including being labeled as someone seeking publicity. Reflecting on this, she said, “Here is an actor of her stature publicly sharing that she was perpetually depressed and had suicidal thoughts, and yet, instead of empathy, she faced ridicule.”

Aamir Khan and Family Therapy: Setting an Example

In her discussion, Ali also brought attention to Aamir Khan’s decision to participate in joint therapy sessions with his daughter Ira Khan. She applauded this progressive approach, stating, “This is progress at its best. This is why I have always considered Aamir Khan to be one of the most intellectually talented celebrities in the industry.”

As someone with a background in psychology, Ali strongly advocated for therapy, saying, “Every individual should have a therapy session at least once a week—whether it’s solo, with their children, or as a family.” Her endorsement highlights the importance of regular mental health check-ins as part of a holistic approach to well-being.

Celebrating Courage Amidst Backlash

Despite the ridicule faced by trailblazers like Padukone, Ali believes their efforts deserve recognition and celebration. She said, “Deepika should be placed on a pedestal, given awards, and shown the utmost respect—not just for speaking out but for creating a mental health foundation.” Ali’s words resonate with the idea that acknowledging these contributions can encourage others to come forward and share their stories.

Ali’s personal connection to the issue further strengthens her advocacy. She shared how her mother’s struggles were compounded by societal ignorance, making her deeply empathetic toward individuals facing similar battles. “I bow my head in respect, particularly because my own mother suffered from mental health issues throughout her life,” Ali said, reiterating the need for compassion and systemic change.

Somy's statement, “If someone had taken a stand decades ago, perhaps Parveen Babi would still be alive today,” is a stark reminder of the cost of silence and ignorance.

By addressing these issues head-on, Ali hopes to inspire a broader cultural shift, one that prioritizes empathy, education, and action over judgment and neglect. In her own words, “We need to normalize therapy and conversations about mental health—not just in the industry, but in every household.”