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India

CJP uses Taylor Swift’s song ‘Anti Hero’ to mock Union education minister Dharmendra Pradhan NEW DELHI: The Cockroach Janata Party has turned to Taylor Swift’s hit song ‘Anti-Hero’ to criticise Union education minister Dharmendra Pradhan, using a video montage that syncs clips of the minister with the opening lyric: “It’s me, hi, I’m the problem, it’s me.”The video, shared by CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke, featured a montage of Pradhan portraying him as the face of repeated failures in India’s education system. As the song moves to the line “At tea time,” the clip shifts to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a reference to his tea-seller past and his ‘Chai Pe Charcha’ outreach programmes. The lyric “everybody agrees” accompanies visuals of the ongoing CJP protests at Jantar Mantar.The CJP has been staging protests at Jantar Mantar since June 20, demanding Pradhan’s resignation over a series of alleged examination irregularities, including the NEET paper leak, irregularities in the CBSE’s OMS system and the Maharashtra Teacher Eligibility Test paper leak. Activist Sonam Wangchuk has been on an indefinite hunger strike at the site since June 28.’B-team of terrorists’ remark draws backlashThe video comes days after Pradhan described sections of protesting youth and the CJP as the “B-team of terrorists,” a remark that drew sharp criticism from Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, who demanded the minister apologise and resign.”Dharmendra Pradhan, immediately apologise to the millions of youth in this country and resign for your failures,” Gandhi said, accusing the government of turning the education system into an “extortion racket.”Dipke hit back, alleging Pradhan had “the blood of more than 17 students on his hands” and shared a video of the father of an 18-year-old NEET aspirant who allegedly died by suicide, questioning how his son could be labelled a “terrorist.”Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Do I Have To Ask Trump?’: Omar Abdullah Launches Attack At Modi Govt Over Jammu-Kashmir StatehoodBJP Rejects Omar Abdullah’s ‘Operation Lotus’ Allegation, Demands Proof Or Public ApologyHapur Woman Critical After Allegedly Drinking Acid From Sealed Water Bottle; Police Launch ProbeElection Commission Updates Form 6 With New SIR DeclarationIndian Army Plans To Induct 450 Carl Gustaf M4 Rocket LaunchersDelhi To Get Its First Solar Tree At Secretariat; Pilot Project May Expand Across The CityBig Setback To Mamata Banerjee As Loyalist Anubrata Mandal Joins Ritabrata-Led Rebel CampOperation Lotus In Kashmir? CM Omar Abdullah Claims BJP Offered NC MLAs Rs 20-30 Crore In JammuSIA Kashmir Secures Interpol Red Corner Notice Against Hizbul Terrorist KandooWhat India Gained From PM Modi’s New Zealand Visit: Defence, Trade, Indo-Pacific & More123PhotostoriesForget crash diets and health hacks: Cardiologist reveals 5 simple daily habits that can transform your health, one day at a timeTop 3 eggs in the world and the right way to consume themnside Sudesh Lehri’s luxurious 4-BHK Mumbai home: A private studio, home theatre and moreWhy seemingly healthy young Indians are collapsing without warning: Doctors explain how AEDS can mean the difference between life and deathKate Middleton ditched soft neutrals for a show-stopping red look at Wimbledon 20265 late-night drinks that help support healthy blood sugar, according to dietitians9 traditional steamed breakfast dishes of India and their caloriesWhy India is facing a diabetes explosion: Stanford’s top 2% scientist reveals the hidden reasons Indians develop it younger than the rest of the worldHow hand-painted Kalamkari is created: The story behind India’s legendary textile artFrom Priyanka Chopra to Ananya Panday: 5 best Wimbledon looks ever worn by Indian celebrities123Hot PicksAgniveer result 2026DU UG Admissions 2026Vietnam boat accidentSonam Wangchuk Hunger strikeSwiggy Instamart noticesKarnataka Bus newsBengaluru delivery boyKolkata Mosque prayersKarnataka SIRTop TrendingUFC 329 HighlightsNHL Player InjuryErling Haaland FatherFIFA World Cup 2026Chhattisgarh Student MurderTS EAMCET Phase 1 seat allotmentRamesh MhatreDelhi NCR rainGurgaon EncounterIran war

Vamsikrishna2 days ago02 mins mins

CJP uses Taylor Swift’s song ‘Anti Hero’ to mock Union education minister Dharmendra Pradhan NEW DELHI: The Cockroach Janata Party has turned to Taylor Swift’s hit song ‘Anti-Hero’ to criticise Union education minister Dharmendra Pradhan, using a video montage that syncs clips of the minister with the opening lyric: “It’s me, hi, I’m the problem,…

Cricket

‘Never seen more confused team management’: Former India cricketer blasts Gautam Gambhir’s coaching staff after 0-4 rout

Vamsikrishna2 days ago02 mins mins

Gautam Gambhir questioned after 0-4 defeat to England (Image: AP) Following India’s forgettable 0-4 T20I series defeat to England, former India batter Mohammed Kaif has launched a scathing attack on the team’s management, questioning the handling of young sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and senior wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson.England completely outplayed India in the T20I leg of the…

Entertainment

‘I did not short sell integrity for work EVER so…. I quit and moved on’: Kalpana Iyer opens up on not trading ‘principles’ for disrespect and mediocre roles

Vamsikrishna2 days ago03 mins mins

‘I did not short sell integrity for work EVER so…. I quit and moved on’: Kalpana Iyer opens up on not trading ‘principles’ for disrespect and mediocre roles Veteran actress and former beauty queen Kalpana Iyer has opened up about one of the toughest phases of her career. She shared how changing times in the…

Life Style

Mr. Beast: Who is Thea Booysen? All about Mr. Beast’s soon-to-be wife, following his cryptic hint about wedding |

Vamsikrishna2 days ago03 mins mins

Mr. Beast, the over-the-top YouTuber, stunned his massive fanbase with an X post announcing an update to his marital status. The 28-year-old has intrigued the crowd regarding whether he and his fiancée, Thea Booysen, will finally walk down the aisle. The couple previously made headlines with their unprecedented announcement during Christmas 2024 – and now,…

Top Stories

Michael Dell is “incredible”, go out and buy a Dell computer was Trump’s message when he rang the opening bell of the stock market; but analysts say: There are no institutional investors that have ever …

Vamsikrishna2 days ago03 mins mins

When US President Donald Trump rang the opening bell of the stock market from the Oval Office, he signed out Micheal and Susan Dell for their contributions to his investment initiative for children, calling them ‘incredible people’ and urging Americans to ‘go out any buy a Dell computer’, according to a report by Fortune. The…

India

NEW DELHI: Punjab BJP leader Fatehjung Singh Bajwa on Sunday targeted the Congress over reports of infighting in its Punjab unit, claiming the party is “no longer even in the race” for the 2027 assembly elections and would do well to retain its existing seats.”I have been in the Congress. The Congress is a party that faces no threat from external enemies. Its own members tear each other apart. Given the current situation in Punjab, I believe the Congress is no longer even in the race…I feel it would be a significant achievement if they could simply retain the 18 seats they previously held,” Bajwa told ANI.He also referred to allegations made by Congress leaders against the party’s state leadership.”It is not the opposition saying this; it is Congress leaders themselves who claim that Raja Warring has compromised with Bhagwant Mann,” he added.Bajwa’s remarks come amid reports of differences within the Punjab Congress after the party decided to retain Amarinder Singh Raja Warring as the state unit chief. Supporters of former chief minister Charanjit Singh Channi have reportedly been seeking the post for him.Rejecting reports of factionalism, AICC general secretary in charge of Punjab Bhupesh Baghel said there was “no resentment” within the party and asserted that Congress leaders were united ahead of the 2027 assembly polls.”In these six days, I held meetings with many committees and held meetings regarding election preparations. I also visited the residences of various senior leaders and met them. The 2027 elections are drawing closer. I have taken all the leaders’ experiences and suggestions regarding its preparation… There is no factionalism. All the workers and leaders want to have some responsibility in the 2027 elections,” Baghel told ANI in Raipur.Meanwhile, Congress leader Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa said unity was crucial for the party ahead of the elections but stressed that there should be no “compromised leaders” within its ranks.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Do I Have To Ask Trump?’: Omar Abdullah Launches Attack At Modi Govt Over Jammu-Kashmir StatehoodBJP Rejects Omar Abdullah’s ‘Operation Lotus’ Allegation, Demands Proof Or Public ApologyHapur Woman Critical After Allegedly Drinking Acid From Sealed Water Bottle; Police Launch ProbeElection Commission Updates Form 6 With New SIR DeclarationIndian Army Plans To Induct 450 Carl Gustaf M4 Rocket LaunchersDelhi To Get Its First Solar Tree At Secretariat; Pilot Project May Expand Across The CityBig Setback To Mamata Banerjee As Loyalist Anubrata Mandal Joins Ritabrata-Led Rebel CampOperation Lotus In Kashmir? CM Omar Abdullah Claims BJP Offered NC MLAs Rs 20-30 Crore In JammuSIA Kashmir Secures Interpol Red Corner Notice Against Hizbul Terrorist KandooWhat India Gained From PM Modi’s New Zealand Visit: Defence, Trade, Indo-Pacific & More123PhotostoriesTop 3 eggs in the world and the right way to consume themnside Sudesh Lehri’s luxurious 4-BHK Mumbai home: A private studio, home theatre and moreWhy seemingly healthy young Indians are collapsing without warning: Doctors explain how AEDS can mean the difference between life and deathKate Middleton ditched soft neutrals for a show-stopping red look at Wimbledon 20265 late-night drinks that help support healthy blood sugar, according to dietitians9 traditional steamed breakfast dishes of India and their caloriesWhy India is facing a diabetes explosion: Stanford’s top 2% scientist reveals the hidden reasons Indians develop it younger than the rest of the worldHow hand-painted Kalamkari is created: The story behind India’s legendary textile artFrom Priyanka Chopra to Ananya Panday: 5 best Wimbledon looks ever worn by Indian celebritiesChristopher Nolan’s best films to watch, ahead of ‘The Odyssey’: From ‘Oppenheimer’ to ‘Memento’123Hot PicksAgniveer result 2026DU UG Admissions 2026Vietnam boat accidentSonam Wangchuk Hunger strikeSwiggy Instamart noticesKarnataka Bus newsBengaluru delivery boyKolkata Mosque prayersKarnataka SIRTop TrendingUFC 329 HighlightsNHL Player InjuryErling Haaland FatherFIFA World Cup 2026Chhattisgarh Student MurderTS EAMCET Phase 1 seat allotmentRamesh MhatreDelhi NCR rainGurgaon EncounterIran war

Vamsikrishna2 days ago02 mins mins

NEW DELHI: Punjab BJP leader Fatehjung Singh Bajwa on Sunday targeted the Congress over reports of infighting in its Punjab unit, claiming the party is “no longer even in the race” for the 2027 assembly elections and would do well to retain its existing seats.“I have been in the Congress. The Congress is a party…

Entertainment

Kangana Ranaut hails women as ‘Devi, Shakti and Mata’ amid defending UP Governor Anandiben Patel’s controversial ‘expert mother’ remark: ‘God has bestowed upon us the duty of nurturing humanity’

Vamsikrishna2 days ago03 mins mins

Kangana Ranaut backed UP Governor Anandiben Patel’s “expert mother” remark, calling nurturing women’s “true nature.” She recalled childhood memories of playing with dolls, calling caregiving instinctive and divine. Patel had earlier said women should become “expert mothers” before pursuing careers like IAS or teaching, sparking a gender debate. Kangana Ranaut has responded to the controversy…

Astrology

Chinese Horoscope Today, July 13, 2026: Sudden Luck for These Zodiac Signs, Pressure for Others

Vamsikrishna2 days ago03 mins mins

Today is a day of smart but restless energy, small choices leading to bigger outcomes. July 13, 2026, is a Wu Zi day, or Yang Earth Rat Day in Chinese astrology. It helps in practical thinking and rapid judgement, but may also induce quiet worry. According to this daily Chinese horoscope, patience is the name…

Top Stories

‘Violations of law’: Vietnam arrests boat captain after capsize killed 15 Indians

Vamsikrishna2 days ago02 mins mins

Vietnam arrests boat captain after capsize killed 15 Indians Vietnamese police on Sunday arrested the captain of a speedboat that capsized near southern Phu Quoc Island, killing 15 Indian tourists, authorities said. Police in An Giang province said the 57-year-old was taken into custody for “violations of law” of maritime safety regulations that ultimately resulted…

World

Quote of the day by Ralph Waldo Emerson: ‘What you do speaks so loudly that I cannot hear what you say’

Vamsikrishna2 days ago03 mins mins

American essayist, philosopher and poet Ralph Waldo Emerson is remembered for his timeless reflections on character, self-reliance and human values. One of his most enduring quotes, “What you do speaks so loudly that I cannot hear what you say,” reminds us that actions are often a more accurate reflection of a person’s character than their…

India

Many confuse mental illnesses and do not understand its magnitude Conversations around mental health have grown louder over the past decade. Understanding and care, however, have struggled to keep pace.For decades, popular culture has turned complex psychiatric conditions into dramatic plot devices. Today, social media and AI-generated content are adding to the noise, making it easier than ever for misinformation to spread alongside genuine medical information.Thus, awareness without accurate understanding can create a different problem in itself. When psychiatric conditions become internet buzzwords or fictional tropes, myths often travel faster than facts.To understand how these misconceptions take shape, three serious but among the most misunderstood mental illnesses have been analysed – schizophrenia, dissociative identity disorder (DID) and bipolar disorder. Each is medically distinct, yet all three have many attached stereotypes that continue to influence how society views mental illnesses.According to the WHO, one in every eight people globally lives with a mental disorder. Around 24 million people have schizophrenia, while nearly 40 million live with bipolar disorder.DID is considerably rarer, but its frequent portrayal in books, films and television has made it disproportionately familiar to the public. Watch DID isn’t a movie plot: Understanding a misunderstood disorderDifferent diagnoses, different realitiesOne of the biggest misconceptions surrounding mental illness is the tendency to treat different psychiatric conditions as interchangeable. Terms such as schizophrenia, DID and bipolar disorder are often used loosely.Psychiatrists say that misunderstanding not only creates confusion but can also delay diagnosis, reinforce stereotypes and shape unrealistic expectations about treatment and recovery.Schizophrenia is a psychotic disorder that affects how a person perceives reality. It is characterised by symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions and disorganised thinking. Many people also experience what clinicians describe as “negative symptoms”, including reduced motivation, diminished emotional expression and difficulty initiating conversations or completing everyday tasks. Together, these symptoms can make studying, working and maintaining relationships challenging.Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) belongs to an entirely different category of psychiatric conditions. Classified as a dissociative disorder, it is characterised by two or more distinct identity states and is usually associated with severe and prolonged trauma, especially in childhood. People may even experience memory gaps and disruptions in their sense of identity.Bipolar disorder, meanwhile, is a mood disorder marked by episodes of depression alternating with periods of mania or hypomania. During manic episodes, a person may experience unusually elevated energy, racing thoughts, impulsive behaviour, increased confidence and a significantly reduced need for sleep.Three disorders, three different realitiesDespite these differences, public understanding often blurs the boundaries between them.”The most common one I come across, even today, is people assuming schizophrenia means multiple personalities. It doesn’t. These are two separate conditions, and we treat them very differently,” says Dr Divya Nallur, Clinical Director at Amaha, a mental healthcare provider offering psychiatric services.According to her, much of the confusion stems from history as much as medicine. The word “schizophrenia” itself led many people to associate the illness with split personalities, a misunderstanding that popular culture amplified over decades.Dr Asha, psychiatrist at Bengaluru’s SPARSH Hospital, said the same misunderstanding continues to surface in clinical practice. “They are usually confused since popular media inaccurately portrays schizophrenia (Heavily influenced by a combination of genetics, brain chemistry, and environmental factors) as split kind of personalities. In order to improve understanding and reduce stigma surrounding both of the disorders good public education is very much essential,” she said.Additionally, despite being different diagnoses, schizophrenia, DID and bipolar disorder share one common challenge. They are all burdened by stereotypes that often overshadow medical reality. “Lock them up, stay away, dangerous, evil,” are some of the casual ways people describe someone struggling with a mental illness.For psychiatrists, that misconception has real consequences. “A diagnosis of schizophrenia or DID does not mean the person is dangerous. With the right treatment, psychological support and importantly, a supportive environment, many of these patients study, work, marry, raise children and live full lives,” said Amaha’s Dr Nallur.The fictional narrativeFor many people, the first introduction to serious mental illness did not come from a doctor or a classroom. It came from a film, a TV series or social media.For decades, cinema has relied on psychiatric conditions to build suspense, explain criminal behaviour or create dramatic plot twists. The villain hears voices. The killer has multiple personalities. The unpredictable character is casually described as bipolar or having “split personality”.Additionally, on one hand, psychologists, hospitals and advocacy groups are trying normalise discussions around mental health. On the other, short videos and simplified explainers can encourage self-diagnosis or blur the line between everyday emotions and clinical disorders.“In reality, the vast majority of these patients are not violent. If anything, they’re more likely to be on the receiving end of violence,” said Dr Nallur.”A thirty-second reel cannot explain a psychiatric condition,” she added. “People watch these and start labelling themselves, or their friends or family members. No assessment, nothing.”A thirty-second reel cannot explain a psychiatric condition.Dr. Divya Nallur, clinical director, AmahaDr Asha also said, “Both film and television have historically portrayed DID and schizophrenia in some sensational ways, often linking them with violence or unpredictable behaviour.”According to her, authentic storytelling backed by evidence can help correct these misconceptions.Public awareness, she says, must extend beyond recognising the names of disorders. It should help people understand symptoms, encourage timely treatment and replace judgement with empathy.When diagnosis becomes characteristicA diagnosis is meant to explain what a person is experiencing. Too often, it ends up becoming the only thing people see.Stereotypes follow people into classrooms, workplaces, neighbourhoods and even their own homes. They shape who gets hired, who is trusted, who is included and, in many cases, who feels safe enough to ask for help.Mental health professionals say this fear of being judged is one of the biggest reasons people delay seeking treatment.”I’ve had patients who suffered for years before walking into a clinic, purely because of what people would say,” says Dr Divya Nallur. “Stigma often does as much damage as the illness.”That delay can have lasting consequences. Symptoms become more difficult to manage, relationships begin to strain and recovery often takes longer than it otherwise might have.Seema Rekha, founder and director at a workplace mental health and organisational wellness consultancy Antarmanh consulting said stigma also discourages honest conversations within families.”Delayed help-seeking can be considered one of the main consequences of stigma. The delay in treatment can result in further deterioration of mental disorders and make rehabilitation more difficult.”Further talking about the portrayal in films and TV she added, “Previously, Hollywood used mental illnesses like schizophrenia or dissociative identity disorder to make their films or TV shows more interesting and exciting. Although it was entertaining to watch those films, the problem is that they gave a completely wrong perspective on those diseases, making it difficult for people to get an accurate picture of the issue.”Media that tell the story with respect and science-based accuracy can change the existing misconceptions into understanding and eliminate stigma.Seema Rekha, founder and director Antarmanh ConsultingMeanwhile, Sparsh hospital’s Dr Asha reiterating sensitivity towards the people, said people living with these conditions are “not simply their condition” and should be treated with empathy and dignity rather than suspicion or fear, adding, “with timely treatment, psychological care, social support and understanding from families, they can lead productive and fulfilling lives”.Individuals suffering from DID or schizophrenia are not simply their condition.Dr. Asha, psychiatrist, SPARSH Hospital, RR Nagar, BangaloreFor many families, however, the challenge still does not end once treatment begins.Myths vs realityA systematic issueMedicines can reduce symptoms. Therapy can help people cope. But recovery depends on much more than treatment alone. It requires families who understand, communities that include rather than isolate, and systems that help people.WHO highlighted that that stigma and discrimination often lead to social exclusion, limiting access to education, employment, housing and healthcare for people living with schizophrenia and other severe mental illnesses.Additionally, according to the US Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, more than one in four adults living with serious mental health conditions also has a substance use disorder.Yet the mental healthcare system continues to focus largely on diagnosis and treatment, while rehabilitation and long-term community support remain limited.Most specialised rehabilitation services are concentrated in a handful of tertiary care centres, leaving many families in smaller towns and villages with few options beyond hospital admissions and medication.For Bhawesh Jha, whose brother lives with schizophrenia, the shortcomings of the system are deeply personal.Growing up in a small town in Bihar, his family struggled to find an experienced psychiatrist. Years of heavy medication, severe side effects and repeated relapses followed before his brother finally received a proper assessment in Mumbai.”But not everyone can afford to go to Mumbai for care,” said Jha, who is also project & policy officer with University of Edinburgh and a member of the Bihar State Mental Health Authority.He believes India’s mental healthcare conversation remains centred on diagnosis and psychiatrists, while rehabilitation and community support receive far less attention. Services such as supported employment, day-care centres, skill development programmes and trained social workers remain scarce outside a handful of specialised institutions in cities like Bengaluru and Delhi.”The question is, how are the 60 per cent of Indians living in villages and small towns supposed to access these?” he asked.Jha also highlighted an interesting point that India’s continued reliance on institutional care is rooted partly in history. Colonial-era laws treated people with mental illnesses as individuals who needed to be confined in asylums, a mindset that, he says, still influences public attitudes and is often reinforced by films portraying people with schizophrenia as violent or dangerous.”Mental hospitals remain necessary during acute phases of illness, but they should not become the default simply because community support doesn’t exist,” he said.According toJha, the illness itself is often only part of the challenge. “Often, I’ve felt that the illness itself is only 40 per cent of the problem. The rest of the suffering is caused by society and community.”He says the discrimination often continues long after people leave the hospital, affecting employment, relationships and even basic legal rights. “There are people, including close relatives, who use the diagnosis itself to deny someone the right to property or marriage.”The first thing to understand is that it is the illness that is the problem, not the person suffering from it.Bhawesh Jha, caregiver, member of the Bihar State Mental Health Authority, project & policy officer with the University of EdinburghYet his own family tells a different story. After their mother suffered a paralytic stroke, it was his brother who became one of her primary caregivers, helping with her daily needs and supporting the family.For people like Jha, it is a reminder that a diagnosis says little about a person’s ability to care, contribute or live with dignity.Forgotten people in the conversationMental illness rarely affects one person alone.Behind every diagnosis is often a parent trying to understand, a sibling managing hospital visits or a spouse balancing work, finances and caregiving responsibilities. Yet while patients are increasingly part of conversations around mental health, caregivers often remain invisible.Many experience exhaustion, financial strain and social isolation while supporting a loved one through years of treatment. Formal support systems for caregivers remain scarce, especially in smaller towns and rural areas.Peer support groups have emerged as an important source of guidance for many families, allowing caregivers to exchange practical advice and emotional support with people facing similar challenges.Jha said these communities reminded him that caregivers also need care. “If your loved one is living with schizophrenia or any mental illness, I want you to know that you are not alone. Do not forget to take care of yourself. Self-care is as important as caring for your loved ones.”Experts believe that strengthening caregiver networks, expanding community-based rehabilitation and improving mental health literacy could significantly improve long-term outcomes for patients and families alike.What helps peopleLooking beyond labelsMental health has come a long way from being a subject people avoided discussing altogether.Today, schools are beginning to introduce conversations around emotional well-being. Workplaces are investing in mental health programmes. Public figures are speaking openly about their experiences. Governments, too, have taken steps to strengthen mental healthcare and recognise the rights of people living with mental illnesses.But awareness alone cannot dismantle decades of misinformation.Schizophrenia is not synonymous with violence. DID is not the fictional battle between “good” and “evil” personalities. Bipolar disorder is far more than changing moods. These are complex medical conditions that require accurate diagnosis, evidence-based treatment and, above all, compassion.Perhaps that is the conversation mental health now needs. To encourage people to talk about mental illness and help them accept it. Because, at the end it is a person whose life is far bigger than the illness they happen to live with.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.About the AuthorTrisha MahajanTrisha Mahajan is a journalist with The Times of India digital, with keen interest in covering business and corporate affairs. She also reports on key national and world developments and global news trends. A keen reader with a strong interest in storytelling that adds context, clarity, and depth to complex issues.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Do I Have To Ask Trump?’: Omar Abdullah Launches Attack At Modi Govt Over Jammu-Kashmir StatehoodBJP Rejects Omar Abdullah’s ‘Operation Lotus’ Allegation, Demands Proof Or Public ApologyHapur Woman Critical After Allegedly Drinking Acid From Sealed Water Bottle; Police Launch ProbeElection Commission Updates Form 6 With New SIR DeclarationIndian Army Plans To Induct 450 Carl Gustaf M4 Rocket LaunchersDelhi To Get Its First Solar Tree At Secretariat; Pilot Project May Expand Across The CityBig Setback To Mamata Banerjee As Loyalist Anubrata Mandal Joins Ritabrata-Led Rebel CampOperation Lotus In Kashmir? CM Omar Abdullah Claims BJP Offered NC MLAs Rs 20-30 Crore In JammuSIA Kashmir Secures Interpol Red Corner Notice Against Hizbul Terrorist KandooWhat India Gained From PM Modi’s New Zealand Visit: Defence, Trade, Indo-Pacific & More123PhotostoriesTop 3 eggs in the world and the right way to consume themnside Sudesh Lehri’s luxurious 4-BHK Mumbai home: A private studio, home theatre and moreWhy seemingly healthy young Indians are collapsing without warning: Doctors explain how AEDS can mean the difference between life and deathKate Middleton ditched soft neutrals for a show-stopping red look at Wimbledon 20265 late-night drinks that help support healthy blood sugar, according to dietitians9 traditional steamed breakfast dishes of India and their caloriesWhy India is facing a diabetes explosion: Stanford’s top 2% scientist reveals the hidden reasons Indians develop it younger than the rest of the worldHow hand-painted Kalamkari is created: The story behind India’s legendary textile artFrom Priyanka Chopra to Ananya Panday: 5 best Wimbledon looks ever worn by Indian celebritiesChristopher Nolan’s best films to watch, ahead of ‘The Odyssey’: From ‘Oppenheimer’ to ‘Memento’123Hot PicksAgniveer result 2026DU UG Admissions 2026Vietnam boat accidentSonam Wangchuk Hunger strikeSwiggy Instamart noticesKarnataka Bus newsBengaluru delivery boyKolkata Mosque prayersKarnataka SIRTop TrendingUFC 329 HighlightsNHL Player InjuryErling Haaland FatherFIFA World Cup 2026Chhattisgarh Student MurderTS EAMCET Phase 1 seat allotmentRamesh MhatreDelhi NCR rainGurgaon EncounterIran war

Vamsikrishna2 days ago011 mins mins

Many confuse mental illnesses and do not understand its magnitude Conversations around mental health have grown louder over the past decade. Understanding and care, however, have struggled to keep pace.For decades, popular culture has turned complex psychiatric conditions into dramatic plot devices. Today, social media and AI-generated content are adding to the noise, making it…

Education

UGC NET June 2026 provisional answer key expected to be released soon: Check steps to download here

Vamsikrishna2 days ago03 mins mins

The NTA is likely to release the UGC NET June 2026 provisional answer key soon at ugcnet.nta.nic.in. Candidates can download their response sheets, question papers, challenge answers by paying ₹200 per question, and estimate their scores before the final results are declared. UGC NET June 2026 provisional answer key: The National Testing Agency (NTA) is…

Entertainment

Nagarjuna reveals how Akhil Akkineni ‘lost sensation’ due to a severe hand injury to bounce back with ‘Lenin’: ‘He became calmer and started thinking differently’

Vamsikrishna2 days ago03 mins mins

Akhil Akkineni’s latest release ‘Lenin’ remains a special film as it is receiving positive response from the audience after his disappointing outing in theatres with the 2023 film ‘Agent’. Recently his father and Tollywood veteran Nagarjuna Akkineni recently talked about a difficult phase in his son’s life. Nagarjuna shares an emotional family story As per…

Top Stories

3 feared drowned as truck plunges into Ganga after breaking bridge railing in UP’s Kannauj | Kanpur News

Vamsikrishna2 days ago01 mins mins

KANNAUJ: At least three people are feared to have drowned, while one person sustained injuries after a truck plunged into the Ganga river after breaking through the railing of a bridge in Uttar Pradesh’s Kannauj district on Sunday, officials said.The accident occurred while the truck was crossing the bridge.Police, along with local administration officials and…

India

Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk during his indefinite hunger strike, amid an ongoing protest by Cockroach Janata Party NEW DELHI: Educator and climate activist Sonam Wangchuk’s health deteriorated further on Sunday as his indefinite hunger strike at the Cockroach Janta Party’s (CJP) protest site at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar entered its 15th day.Doctors reported a further drop in his blood pressure to 104/66 mm Hg and said he has lost 7.8 kg since beginning the fast. A video shared by CJP founder Abhishek Dipke with the caption, “Day 15 of Sonam Wangchuk’s hunger strike. When will the government wake up????” showed Wangchuk lying visibly weak, highlighting the toll the prolonged hunger strike has taken on his health.The protest at Jantar Mantar entered its 23rd day on Sunday, with Wangchuk completing the 15th day of his indefinite fast after joining the agitation on June 28.The organisation said several political leaders and public intellectuals were scheduled to visit the protest site during the day to express solidarity with the agitation. Former Kerala ministers K K Shylaja, K N Balagopal and P Rajeev were expected to interact with protesters, while Samajwadi Party MP Pushpendra Saroj was scheduled to address the gathering.The day’s programme was also set to conclude with a public lecture by economist Jayati Ghosh on “The Economics of Unemployment”, focusing on the employment crisis and its impact on young people.Members of the CPI(ML) Liberation-affiliated All India Students’ Association (AISA), Neha, Manish, Deepak Kumar Verma and Aameen, continued their own indefinite hunger strike on a separate stage at the protest venue.On Saturday, Wangchuk appealed to people not to place him on a pedestal and instead take responsibility as citizens.”Please don’t look for a hero in someone else. Be the hero of your own life. Fulfil your responsibilities as a citizen,” he had said in a video posted on X.He also urged people to participate in the proposed march to Parliament on July 20, calling on citizens to come together and press Members of Parliament to address issues related to the alleged examination irregularities.The CJP has been demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and Rs 1 crore in compensation for the families of students who allegedly died by suicide over examination irregularities. The organisation has also announced a peaceful march to Parliament on July 20, the opening day of the Monsoon Session.The CJP’s protest began on June 20, while Wangchuk joined the agitation eight days later and has remained on an indefinite hunger strike ever since.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos’Do I Have To Ask Trump?’: Omar Abdullah Launches Attack At Modi Govt Over Jammu-Kashmir StatehoodBJP Rejects Omar Abdullah’s ‘Operation Lotus’ Allegation, Demands Proof Or Public ApologyHapur Woman Critical After Allegedly Drinking Acid From Sealed Water Bottle; Police Launch ProbeElection Commission Updates Form 6 With New SIR DeclarationIndian Army Plans To Induct 450 Carl Gustaf M4 Rocket LaunchersDelhi To Get Its First Solar Tree At Secretariat; Pilot Project May Expand Across The CityBig Setback To Mamata Banerjee As Loyalist Anubrata Mandal Joins Ritabrata-Led Rebel CampOperation Lotus In Kashmir? 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Vamsikrishna2 days ago03 mins mins

Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk during his indefinite hunger strike, amid an ongoing protest by Cockroach Janata Party NEW DELHI: Educator and climate activist Sonam Wangchuk’s health deteriorated further on Sunday as his indefinite hunger strike at the Cockroach Janta Party’s (CJP) protest site at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar entered its 15th day.Doctors reported a further drop…

Entertainment

Who is Sharan Sharma? Meet the ‘Gunjan Saxena’ director who just married Akansha Ranjan Kapoor

Vamsikrishna2 days ago03 mins mins

Who is Sharan Sharma? Meet the ‘Gunjan Saxena’ director who just married Akansha Ranjan Kapoor Actor Akansha Ranjan Kapoor and filmmaker Sharan Sharma have begun a new chapter in their lives after getting married in an intimate ceremony attended by family members and close friends. The wedding took place on Saturday in Mumbai and received…

Astrology

These zodiac signs may surprise you with their gentle nature

Vamsikrishna2 days ago02 mins mins

According to astrology, there are certain signs of the zodiac that are extremely generous and gently from inside but they usually keep their emotional side hidden from the people who are not known to them. They exhibit a harsh exterior are secretly harboring a softer, more sensitive side. These people can anytime surprise you with…

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E20 controversy explained: Why an old roadmap is back in spotlight

Vamsikrishna2 days ago06 mins mins

E20 sparks concerns among riders The Centre’s push for mandatory 20% ethanol-blended petrol, or E20, has triggered a political row, with Opposition leaders citing a 2021 NITI Aayog report to question the nationwide rollout. They argue that the Centre departed from the phased transition and safeguards proposed in the report before making E20 the standard…

India

Watch: Thick plumes of smoke fill the sky as major fire guts three buses in Tamil Nadu’s Karur | India News

Vamsikrishna2 days ago02 mins mins

Three buses parked inside the facility were gutted in the fire, while various equipment and materials used for bus body construction were extensively damaged. NEW DELHI: A major fire broke out at Bhima Coach, a private bus body-building unit in Govindampalayam on the Karur-Coimbatore Road in Tamil Nadu’s Karur district on Sunday, engulfing three buses…

Sports

Updated: Jul 12, 2026, 15:59 IST

Vamsikrishna2 days ago06 mins mins

Tejas Nandakumar barred from 2026 Commonwealth Games NEW DELHI: For Tejas Nandakumar, India’s national record holder in the Men’s S7 100m backstroke, the past 24 hours have been a whirlwind of disbelief.The 20-year-old from Bengaluru was supposed to compete at the upcoming Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, starting July 23, and everything had been building towards…

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Who is Sharan Sharma? Meet the ‘Gunjan Saxena’ director who just married Akansha Ranjan Kapoor

These zodiac signs may surprise you with their gentle nature

E20 controversy explained: Why an old roadmap is back in spotlight

Watch: Thick plumes of smoke fill the sky as major fire guts three buses in Tamil Nadu’s Karur | India News

Updated: Jul 12, 2026, 15:59 IST