Mumbai: Actor Vijay Varma, known for his intense performances in films like IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack and Murder Mubarak, has revealed his deeply personal struggle with mental health for the first time. In a candid conversation with Rhea Chakraborty on her podcast, Varma spoke about being diagnosed with severe depression and anxiety, and how a combination of therapy, yoga, and support from friends helped him navigate the difficult period.
A Dark Time in Isolation
Vijay described a period when he was living alone in a Mumbai apartment, feeling completely cut off and unable to function.
“I was all alone in an apartment in Mumbai. Luckily, I had a small terrace — I could see the sky, be with the elements. Otherwise, I would’ve gone mad. Actually, I did. What happened to me is that pause, that constant running after work, the byproduct is that you become so lonely. I felt very lonely, very afraid and I was like why can’t I move from my couch for four days? What’s going on?”
This revelation highlights the often unseen mental health challenges faced by people in high-pressure industries like film. Vijay explained that the relentless pace of work and isolation had led him to a point where even basic daily movement became overwhelming.
Support from Friends and Ira Khan
The actor credited his support system, including co-actor Gulshan Devaiah and Ira Khan, daughter of Aamir Khan, for helping him begin the healing process.
“At that time, Ira and Gulshan were like my little support system. Ira was assisting on Dahaad, and we had all become good friends during the shoot. We’d video call each other on Zoom, have dinners — that was our circle. But I kept deteriorating. She was the first to point out, ‘Vijay, I think you need to start moving a little bit.’ She would do Zoom workouts and make me work out.”
Ira’s encouragement helped Vijay take the first steps toward recovery, illustrating the crucial role friends can play when someone is struggling silently.
Seeking Professional Help
Eventually, Vijay turned to professional help via online therapy, where he was diagnosed with depression and anxiety. While medication was suggested, he chose to first explore lifestyle and therapeutic approaches.
“My therapist even suggested medication. I told her, ‘Let me try managing for now.’ I did surya namaskars and yoga as well as sought therapy.”
Vijay emphasized that the combination of mental health support and physical practices like yoga played a key role in his recovery, helping him regain stability and control over his daily life.
Looking Ahead
Vijay Varma is set to return to the big screen with the upcoming film Gustaakh Ishq, scheduled to release on November 28, 2025. Despite his personal struggles, he remains focused on his craft and hopes that sharing his journey can help break the stigma around mental health.
“It’s important to talk about these things. So many people are going through similar struggles silently. If sharing my story can help even one person reach out, it’s worth it,” Vijay said.
Vijay’s candid conversation is a reminder that mental health challenges can affect anyone, regardless of success or fame, and that seeking help and building a support system is not just important but necessary. His journey also underscores the role of friends, mindfulness, and therapy in navigating mental health crises, serving as inspiration for those battling similar issues.
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