Sat Aug 02 05:28:24 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary of the text, followed by a rewritten version as a news article suitable for *The Hindu*:

**Summary:**

Former Indian Air Force Group Captain G.J. Rao, a Kargil War veteran, has produced a film titled “September-10” to raise awareness about suicide prevention. Inspired by his observations of preventable suicides and his mental health advocacy, Rao aims to reach a broad audience through cinema. The film, which has already won three awards at the International Film Festival of Hyderabad Charminar (IFFHC) 2025, interweaves five stories highlighting different triggers for suicide—farmer suicides, tragic love, business crisis, student struggles, and parental pressure—emphasizing that suicide is preventable through understanding and support. The film has been praised for its sensitive and authentic portrayal of mental health challenges.

**News Article:**

**Kargil Veteran’s Film ‘September-10’ Wins Accolades, Sparks Suicide Prevention Dialogue**

*Hyderabad, August 2, 2025* – Gurrapu Jagadishwar Rao, a former Group Captain of the Indian Air Force and a veteran of the Kargil War, is using the power of cinema to address a critical societal issue: suicide prevention. His film, “September-10,” named after World Suicide Prevention Day, has already garnered significant attention and critical acclaim, winning three awards at the recent 17th International Film Festival of Hyderabad Charminar (IFFHC).

The 67-year-old from Kazipet, Telangana, was moved to make this film after witnessing the unnecessary loss of life due to suicide, contrasting it with the sacrifices made during wartime. “I witnessed the supreme sacrifices of my colleagues during the war. In contrast, I was deeply moved by the preventable deaths by suicide of farmers, students, entrepreneurs and lovers, each case a tragic waste of life,” explains Captain Rao. He also influenced the Telangana government to launch a 24×7 toll-free suicide prevention helpline (104) after he authored a book in Telugu on preventive strategies.

“Cinema is the most powerful medium to reach the masses,” Rao states, explaining his decision to produce the film in both Kannada and Telugu with English subtitles. The film, directed by veteran Om Sai Prakash, explores five interconnected narratives, each showcasing a different trigger for suicide. These include the economic distress of farmers, a tragic love story, a businessman facing ruin, a student struggling with parental expectations, and a girl burdened by academic pressure.

The film won Best Social Film, Best Concept Film and Best Director at IFFHC 2025.

“The film presents the subject of suicide with honesty and emotional depth,” remarked popular South Indian actor Suman, who attended a festival screening. “It is more than a film; it is a mirror to the silent struggles of people from different walks of life.”

Psychiatrist Sarah Afreen from the Institute of Mental Health at Erragadda praised the film’s psychological depth and sensitivity. “The film avoids sensationalism and portrays suicide as the result of prolonged emotional suffering, loneliness or trauma…It underscores the role of empathy and timely psychological support. Even a single compassionate conversation can make a difference,” she said.

“September-10 is not just a film, it is a movement. It urges society to see the warning signs, have open conversations and ensure no one feels so alone that death seems like the only way out,” said Captain Rao.

“September-10” is structured around five interconnected stories. Each segment highlights a different trigger while advocating preventive measures.Farmer Suicides focuses on economic distress caused by crop failures, mounting debts and societal pressures, including dowry demands.Lovers’ Tragedy is a rural love story involving two agricultural graduates who are torn apart by class divide and parental opposition, leading the couple to despair.Businessman’s Crisis is centered on a self-made entrepreneur who faces financial ruin after risky investments made to meet his spouse’s unrealistic ambitions.Student Struggle explores the tension between parental academic expectations and a teenager’s passion for sports, leading to internal collapse.Parental Pressure is about a girl, who, burdened by her mother’s demand for near-perfect academic scores to secure an overseas job, spirals into hopelessness.

Several NGOs and associations in Hyderabad are planning screenings of “September-10” for students and the public in the coming months.

*(If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please reach out for help. Assistance is available on the State’s health helpline 104, Tele-MANAS 14416 and Sneha’s suicide prevention helpline 044-24640050.)*

Read More