Mental health is a topic that has often been overlooked in mainstream cinema, but in recent years, Bollywood has made commendable efforts to portray mental illness with more sensitivity and depth. While some films have managed to create a more accurate depiction, others have faced criticism for their portrayal. Here are ten Bollywood films that have attempted to shine a light on mental health issues, showing the varied approaches the industry has taken to this delicate subject.
1. Barfi
Barfi, directed by Anurag Basu, features characters who deal with disabilities and mental health challenges. The character Jhilmil, played by Priyanka Chopra, has autism. While the film is primarily a romantic drama, it portrays the struggles and societal challenges faced by people with neurodevelopmental disorders in a heartwarming manner.
2. My Name is Khan
In My Name is Khan, Shah Rukh Khan plays Rizwan Khan, a man with Asperger’s Syndrome, a form of autism. The film highlights how a person with a mental health condition navigates life in a world filled with prejudice and stereotypes, especially in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks. The story focuses on empathy, perseverance, and acceptance of neurodivergent individuals.
3. Taare Zameen Par
Directed by Aamir Khan, Taare Zameen Par centers around Ishaan, a young boy with dyslexia. The film beautifully illustrates the emotional struggles of children with learning disabilities and the lack of understanding from parents and teachers. Through a compassionate narrative, the film highlights the importance of recognizing and nurturing the talents of differently-abled children.
4. A Death in the Gunj
In A Death in the Gunj, Konkona Sen Sharma presents a chilling portrayal of mental illness through the character Shutu, a quiet and introverted young man dealing with depression and suicidal tendencies. The film touches on how societal pressures and toxic masculinity can affect an individual’s mental health, leading to devastating consequences.
5. Bhool Bhulaiya
Bhool Bhulaiya is a psychological thriller, starring Vidya Balan, brings dissociative identity disorder (DID) into the limelight. Balan’s character, Avni, struggles with multiple personalities as she embodies the spirit of a vengeful ghost. While the film blends humor and horror, it presents a sensationalized depiction of DID, raising awareness but also criticism for its exaggerated portrayal.
6. Dear Zindagi
In Dear Zindagi, Alia Bhatt plays Kaira, a young woman dealing with unresolved trauma, anxiety, and emotional issues. Through her therapy sessions with Dr. Jehangir Khan (played by Shah Rukh Khan), the film breaks the stigma surrounding mental health therapy in India, portraying it as a healthy way to cope with life’s challenges.Cr
7. Tamasha
Directed by Imtiaz Ali, Tamasha explores the pressures of societal conformity through the character of Ved, played by Ranbir Kapoor, who suffers from an identity crisis and emotional turmoil. The film portrays how suppressing one’s true self can lead to psychological distress and highlights the importance of self-discovery in mental well-being.
8. Chhichhore
Chhichhore, directed by Nitesh Tiwari, addresses the issue of suicide and depression among students facing academic pressure. The film tells the story of a group of friends trying to prevent a tragic event by reflecting on their past struggles with failure and societal expectations. The film sheds light on how failure should not define one’s worth and the importance of mental health among youth.
9. Black
Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Black features Rani Mukerji as Michelle, a deaf-blind woman struggling to communicate with the world. The film also touches on the mental health struggles of her mentor, played by Amitabh Bachchan, as he deals with Alzheimer’s disease. Black is a poignant portrayal of physical disabilities intertwined with mental challenges.
10. Heroine
In Heroine, Kareena Kapoor plays Mahi Arora, a Bollywood star struggling with fame, insecurity, and depression. The film offers a glimpse into the dark side of the entertainment industry, where mental health issues are often brushed under the carpet. Mahi’s erratic behavior, breakdowns, and substance abuse shed light on the mental health struggles faced by those in the limelight.
