The NaariSpeaks: Real Stories on Mental Health by Indian Women
According to the latest survey by National Institute for Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS), close to 150 million Indians are in need of mental health services, out of which only 30 million are seeking help. This alarming statistic underscores the deep-rooted stigma surrounding therapy and the significant gaps in mental health infrastructure. At Boss Naari, we are committed to addressing a small but crucial part of this issue by offering a platform for Indian women to share their mental health experiences.
6/10/25
Living with an extra chromosome
Madhumati Indalkar, with down syndrome has her own unique talents and passions that make her shine in her own way. Her determination, focus, and love for sports led her to the Special Olympics Asia Pacific Games 2013 held in Newcastle, Australia. Madhumati competed in the bocce event, where she earned a silver medal for India.
23/09/25
Living a nomad life
Priyanka Gupta, an IIT Delhi graduate who previously worked in the corporate world, chose a life far from routine and stability. She wanted to find fulfillment and happiness beyond the constraints of a steady job. Priyanka travels across India and around the world, living a nomadic lifestyle while capturing her experiences through writing.
23/09/25
Running cooking classes for men
Medha Gokhale in 2005 started a cooking class for men in Pune with a very unique approach that continues to catch everyone’s attention even today. At a time when kitchens were still considered a woman’s domain, her initiative stood out as bold and refreshing. She not only taught men the art of daily cooking but also planted the idea that food, health, and responsibility belong to everyone, not just women.
15/09/25
Growing up with Alopecia
Ankita Suri, 38, was diagnosed with androgenic alopecia at a very young age. She started losing her hair in grade nine, around 1999, when awareness about such conditions was low and society was not very accepting. As a 15-year-old, she faced criticism, hurtful comments, and even went through periods of isolation. But Ankita found hope in the people around her who supported her and showed acceptance.
31/08/25
Managing life with PCOS
Nidhi Vyas, diagnosed with PCOS ten years ago, has learned to manage the condition and now shares her journey to raise awareness. With the support of her family and friends, she navigates the ups and downs of her health. Though she has faced setbacks and emotional struggles, she continues to live confidently, embracing her body and loving herself as she is.
31/08/25
Alopecia took her hair, not beauty
Ketaki Jani a bold woman living with alopecia areata for 15 years, is breaking beauty barriers for women. At the age of 40, when she suddenly started losing her hair, she lost all hope of living life the way it once was. But with time, her motivation and love for herself grew.
25/08/25
Climbing to the top of Mount Everest
Suvidha Kadlag, a mother of two, turned her dream into reality by summiting Mount Everest while proudly representing Maharashtra’s culture. Carrying the image of a woman in a saree to the peak, she showed that with determination and family support, any woman can overcome challenges and inspire others to dream big.
12/08/25
Surviving breast cancer as an expat
Preethi Pranathi discovered she had breast cancer during a routine checkup while visiting India. Choosing strength over fear, she bravely decided to undergo treatment in the Netherlands. Her journey of navigating cancer care abroad as an expat, is both inspiring and empowering. To know how she fought cancer with grace and determination, read more.
25/07/25
Back in the 90s, women weren’t ‘supposed’ to start businesses. Vrinda did anyway
Vrinda Datye started her entrepreneurial journey in 1991 with no financial backing and today, at 81, she still leads with purpose. With her children’s support and an unbreakable spirit, she founded Seva Nursing Bureau to bring dignity to nursing work and challenge broken systems. Her story is one of grit, compassion, and lasting impact.
07/06/25
The unseen side of intra-uterine insemination
Suchandra, an Indian woman, conceived her baby in the Netherlands through IUI. While the treatment worked on the first try, a rare, unpredicted complication during pregnancy led to an arduous journey. What was her story, and what critical advice does she have for others navigating fertility treatments? Read more to find out.
04/06/25
Letting go of a career path
Discover the story of Alina, who left India to chase her medical dreams in Russia, battled depression, survived a COVID-19 pandemic and a war, and found healing through faith, creativity, and self-discovery.
13/05/25
The Journey of being Child-Free
Read the story of Shovna, an Indian woman choosing the childfree DINK life. A must-read for anyone on the fence about parenthood.
05/03/25
The girl who lived through war
Hear the harrowing account of Dr. Namira, an Indian MBBS student, whose life was upended by the Russia-Ukraine war. Her story, direct from the heart of the conflict, is truly chilling.
02/03/25
Navigating motherhood abroad
Malti gave birth to her baby in the Netherlands. As an Indian woman far from her family, she faced challenges but also embraced the unique “Dutch-Indian” parenting style. What is her story? Read more to find out.
16/02/25
Navigating life in an unchosen marriage
Join Anu, a 50-something reflecting on being “married off” – a decision that cost her dreams, her identity, and her sense of self. Hear her story of sacrifice, strength, and reclaiming her voice.
16/04/25
Raising a Child with Haemophilia
Read Renuka Ji’s story of strength and unconditional love as she navigates life raising her son Karthik with haemophilia
13/12/24
Tales of Anxiety
Join Rasika as she shares her deeply personal journey of navigating anxiety—from overwhelming lows to finding strength within herself. Discover how therapy, family support, and self-care helped her manage triggers, debunk myths, and overcome societal stigma. An inspiring conversation on courage, resilience, and living authentically despite the challenges of mental health.
21/10/24
A Journey of Embracing Dark Skin
Discover how a young Indian woman overcame colorism, societal pressures, and found self-worth. Learn about her struggles, resilience, and the path to self-love.
19/06/19
Breaking Free from a cycle of Domestic Violence
Discover the hidden face of domestic violence. A story of courage, resilience, and the power of a mother’s spirit.