MANATARANG

We all learn the language of images before words. Films have always been a powerful medium to inspire, educate, laugh, cry, and reflect. They touch us emotionally in a stronger, simpler, and universal way across age groups and social classes.

The Manatarang Film Festival, initiated by the Institute for Psychological Health (IPH), Thane in 2010, is dedicated exclusively to mental health awareness and sensitization. Organized annually during Mental Health Week in October, the festival presents feature films, short films, and documentaries on themes such as friendship, relationships, resilience, aging, and psychological disorders. Each screening is followed by panel discussions with filmmakers/ Experts and mental health experts, creating dialogue that helps eradicate stigma and build emotional well-being.

Alongside the festival, IPH runs the Manatarang Film Club throughout the year. At IPH Thane we conduct an online film club with over 300 participants from across Maharashtra and abroad, running successfully for the past 10 years. At Nashik, IPH Mindlab organizes a monthly offline screening, now in its 4th year, with theme-based sessions that explore cinema, emotions, and mental health reflections. Both clubs foster communities of film and psychology appreciators.

We are now expanding this initiative to other regions and cities. Anyone concerned and willing to extend the Manatarang Film Club in their area can be mentored and guided by IPH to establish and sustain it.

At its core, Manatarang is about using cinema to sensitize communities, spark empathy, and normalize conversations on mental health.

Contact us : [email protected]