LET’S TALK ABOUT MENTAL HEALTH
Music enthusiasts can check out the Mpower Fest, which aims to use the power of music to break down the stigma and normalise conversations around mental health in India. The concert features a line-up of the country’s top artistes including Vishal Dadlani, Shekhar Ravjiani, Amaal Mallik, Armaan Malik, and Shalmali Kholgade.
“Music can be an incredible source of inspiration and support for people, it has always lifted me in difficult times,” says Ananya Birla, cofounder and vice chairperson, Mpower.
Mpower was launched in 2016 by Neerja Birla and her daughter Ananya Birla to proactively champion mental health causes by raising awareness and providing world-class care services.
“The Mpower Fest is launched to be a music concert for young people and to provide a platform to engage in meaningful dialogue on mental health, in a fun and relatable way. We strongly believe in advocating a stigmafree society and encourage people in need to speak up, because it is okay, not to be okay, but it is not okay, not to seek help,” says Neerja Birla, founder and chairperson, Mpower.
Last month, on World Mental Health Day, Mpower launched the #SunoDekhoKaho campaign, which raises awareness and encourages people to speak up if they see someone in need of help. The fest will also see popular Indian cricketer Yuvraj Singh take the #SunoDekhoKaho pledge along with Neerja Birla.
“In a country rife with stigma when it comes to matters of the mind, it is very essential that we learn to be more mindful – of how we watch out, listen, and speak to someone with a mental health concern,” says Vishal.
Expressing his delight at being associated with the fest, Shekhar says, “We look forward to coming together for a musical evening with the sole purpose of stamping out the stigma and to encourage a conversation about mental health.”
Shalmali says, “We’re the change-makers. Let’s together make a difference with the power of music by pledging to help create a happier, mental health-friendly society.” — HTC