Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI) and Royal Rajasthan Foundation (RRF) have collaborated to introduce the #KhulKeBolo campaign, focusing on promoting mental health awareness among Indian women.

The campaign features actress Sonali Kulkarni, highlighting the diverse mental health challenges faced by women and the importance of awareness. The launch event included a panel discussion with prominent individuals, shedding light on the significance of open dialogue.

Gender inequality is a significant factor impacting the mental health of women in India. Unique social, cultural, and economic factors contribute to this issue.

The campaign acknowledges the lack of resources allocated to mental health within India’s healthcare system. Experts point out that the shortage of mental health professionals is stark, with minimal funding dedicated to mental health wellness. This inadequacy creates a substantial treatment gap and perpetuates the stigma surrounding mental health discussions.

According to a press release, the campaign’s launch event witnessed a diverse group of attendees from various walks of life, including actors, psychiatrists, architects, and representatives from SPNI and RRF.

The campaign’s foundation is based on a study conducted by RRF, which highlighted that a significant percentage of adolescent girls and women find it challenging to seek help when faced with mental health difficulties. The #KhulKeBolo initiative aims to establish a safe space for women to voice their struggles and seek assistance without hesitation.

To provide support, the campaign has partnered with Sangath, an NGO that offers a toll-free helpline for women to connect with mental health experts for guidance and support. Additionally, offline workshops will be organized in collaboration with RRF across villages in Rajasthan. Online communities and workshops will also be facilitated through the coto app, an exclusive social platform for women.

Commenting on the campaign, N.P. Singh, MD and CEO of SPNI, said, “Women are integral to our organisation, and we have always supported and encouraged women’s empowerment. The #KhulKeBolo campaign is a poignant reminder of the mental health challenges that many women fight daily. Our partnership with RRF is driven by a shared vision to break the taboo of silence around mental health issues.”

Manu Wadhwa, Chief Human Resource Officer, SPNI said that the company is dedicated to the cause of “inclusion and women in our workforce who form an integral part of our D&I strategy”.

Campaign ambassador of #KhulKebolo Kulkarni opined, “While mental health issues have existed in our society across gendered differences, it is important to recognise how it affects women in more ways than one. Talking about mental health is still taboo and pushes many struggling people behind the curtain. Everyone needs to get the help they need without being shamed. I feel proud to be a part of something as meaningful as #KhulKeBolo, which helps bring the much-needed change in this space.”

Ranjit Barthakur, Chairperson, Royal Rajasthan Foundation, added, “Here at the Royal Rajasthan Foundation – the philanthropic arm of IPL team Rajasthan Royals – our journey towards raising awareness around mental health started in 2020 with our series ‘Mind, Body and Soul’ which was led by our first-ever Royal – the late Shane Warne.

“As we launch the #KhulKeBolo campaign in collaboration with Sony Pictures Networks India, we continue that journey to break the shackles of silence surrounding women’s mental health.”