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“The Representation of Mental Health in South Asian Dramas: Moving Beyond Stigma and Towards Healing”
South Asian cultures have long been rooted in traditions that discourage open discussions about mental health. This cultural silence, particularly around women’s mental health, has led to a deep stigma that prevents many individuals from seeking help or even acknowledging their struggles. However, in recent years, OTT (Over-the-Top) platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and regional platforms such as ZEE5 and Hum TV have begun to reflect a shift in the portrayal of mental health in South Asian dramas. While some series still portray mental health issues as a joke or as a trivial subplot, others are tackling these topics more seriously, moving beyond the stereotypical depictions and shedding light on…