Safdarjung Hospital Organises Man Mahotsav 2026 to Promote Mental Health Awareness (TIN)
New Delhi: Amidst the hustle and bustle of life, the challenges of stress, and emotions suppressed within, if someone holds your hand and says, "You are not alone," that very feeling marks the beginning of new hope. Bringing this sentiment to life, the 'Man Mahotsav – Mental Health Week 2026' was organized at Vardhman Mahavir Medical College (VMMC) and Safdarjung Hospital. Spanning six days—from October 5 to October 10—this campaign conveyed the message of open dialogue regarding mental health through awareness initiatives, art, conversation, and sensitivity.
Held under the guidance of Hospital Director Dr. Kavita Sharma and with the support of Medical Superintendent Dr. Charu Bamba, the event was led by Dr. Pankaj Verma, Head of the Department of Psychiatry. Throughout the week, Dr. Nishant Goyal conducted daily public lectures at the Psychiatry Outpatient Department (OPD) at 11:30 AM, raising awareness about mental health among patients and visitors.
The festival kicked off on October 5 with a quiz competition for undergraduate students. On October 6, a mental health awareness march was held, featuring participation from senior hospital officials. That same day, a debate competition took place, addressing the medical, social, legal, and public health aspects of cannabis legalization.
October 7 featured a drawing competition for children and a canvas painting activity for MBBS students, offering an opportunity to express emotions through colors. During an 'Open Mic' event on October 8, students shared their talents, experiences, and inner thoughts. On October 9, nursing students spread awareness by creating posters centered on mental health.
On October 10—World Mental Health Day—an interactive health awareness session and a seminar for the general public were organized at the Rural Health Training Centre in Najafgarh. The Departments of Psychiatry and Community Medicine collaborated to conduct these events. The program was conducted by resident doctors and trainees from the Department of Community Medicine under the leadership of Dr. Anita Khokhar.
The seminar emphasized identifying early symptoms of depression and anxiety, seeking timely expert consultation, stress management, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and dispelling myths and social stigma associated with mental illness. The MBBS students' drama troupe presented a play highlighting the adverse effects of substance abuse. Senior resident doctors discussed mental health, and prizes were awarded to the winners of various competitions.
Dr. Kavita Sharma stated that mental health cannot be viewed in isolation from physical health. It is essential to foster an environment—whether in hospitals, educational institutions, or the community—where people can share their concerns without hesitation. Dr. Charu Bamba added that patients, doctors, nurses, and students should all have the opportunity to express themselves without fear or discrimination. Senior and postgraduate resident doctors from the Department of Psychiatry played a pivotal role in the program.
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