The Dharavi Social Mission (DSM) recently conducted a stress management workshop at Maharashtra Nature Park, engaging hundreds of Dharavi residents. Held on November 30, the workshop was designed to provide practical strategies for managing stress, a crucial issue in one of Mumbai’s most densely populated and economically challenged areas.
The event, which was part of the Dharavi Redevelopment Project, attracted wide participation from local residents, who are often faced with daily challenges such as overcrowding, limited personal space, and economic uncertainty. The workshop aimed to address the mental health challenges arising from these stressors, offering a mix of expert-led discussions, mindfulness exercises, and interactive activities. For many Dharavikars, this workshop marked their first introduction to structured stress management techniques. Participants were taught valuable tools such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, and mindfulness techniques, all of which provided immediate relief. Sangeeta Manohar Khade, a 45-year-old participant, shared, “Practices like deep breathing and mindfulness introduced during the workshop are helping me in my daily life. I have started practising them regularly and believe they will help me manage stress better in the long run.”
The DSM, a flagship initiative of the Dharavi Redevelopment Project, focuses on the holistic development of the community, with an emphasis on improving social, economic, and healthcare conditions. Its work includes supporting skill-based employment, healthcare, hygiene, and social engagement for underprivileged groups, particularly women and youth. The stress management workshop aligned with DSM’s larger goal of fostering a resilient and self-reliant community by addressing both the mental and emotional well-being of Dharavi’s residents.
A 45-year-old resident of PMGP Colony, expressed how the workshop had a deep impact on her. “I cried during the meditation course and felt lighter afterward. It reminded me how important it is to take five minutes for ourselves—to sit in silence, remember the almighty, and be grateful,” she said. The community has shown a growing interest in mental health awareness, with several participants eager to apply what they learned. Another local, noted, “The techniques were explained very well. I have already started applying them to reduce stress in daily life. I will recommend this workshop at my workplace as well, as we all need such sessions.” Dharavi residents, long accustomed to facing external hardships, are now embracing new avenues for self-care and mental wellness, which can significantly improve their quality of life. As DSM continues its work to empower and uplift the community, initiatives like these are vital in creating a healthier, more resilient Dharavi.
