EastEnders star Aaron Thiara, 33, has opened up about the persistent taboo surrounding mental health in the South Asian community, describing it as 'forbidden' to discuss struggles. The actor, who plays villain Ravi Gurati on the BBC soap, spoke exclusively to the Mirror at the Mind x The Ricky Hatton Foundation charity auction in London on Thursday.
Powerful PTSD Storyline Grips Viewers
Thiara's character Ravi was recently diagnosed with Complex PTSD (CPTSD) after a series of breakdowns and a suicide attempt in earlier episodes. The storyline has shown Ravi receiving treatment in a mental health facility, captivating audiences. The Wolverhampton-born actor has been a mainstay on Albert Square since 2022.
Breaking the Silence on Men's Mental Health
Speaking about the importance of the charity event, Thiara said: 'Tonight is about men's mental health. To continue the conversation. We're all aware in 2026 that conversation needs to be proactive in moving that forward. The stigma, whether it's in the South Asian community or just in general for men of a certain age, can make it feel as though we have to live up to expectations. But through conversation, we can continue to realise that being vulnerable and feeling failure isn't weakness.'
He emphasised the role of public figures in normalising these discussions: 'I think so. And let's be honest, I'm just a normal dude, right? Who's doing a certain job. But I used to be someone who wasn't in the public eye, right? So growing up, as a teenager, as a young adult, if I were to see people in the public eye talking about certain things that perhaps I'm feeling or experiencing, it makes you feel seen. So it feels important, like... a duty of care.'
Cultural Barriers in the South Asian Community
Thiara reflected on how his background has shaped his perspective: 'You could argue there's a responsibility because I can't hide the colour of my skin, I'm Asian, so people feel like, perhaps I represent something. I don't feel a responsibility to represent that. I'm a human being, just like everyone else, regardless of culture. Within my sector, our community, it feels forbidden to talk about mental health struggles.'
He added: 'It's just not something you talk about; it's something you bury. Take it back 50 years, and it was strengthened by this aspect of coming to Britain, starting a new life, getting on with it, staying strong. So within the community, I think we can all start to acknowledge that it's okay not to be quiet. You can talk.'
Support for Under-16 Social Media Ban
The actor also voiced strong support for the under-16 social media ban, calling it 'the best thing, and it's long overdue!' He said: 'I only use social media for business. I just pray that investment goes into community services then. They can't just get rid of social media and then not invest. They have to do something for these kids. I mean, social groups, playgroups - chat to people, play a bit of football, go home when it starts getting dark, like I used to do!'
