In the Field of Mental Health since 1971
The 1970s were a turbulent time in the history of Calcutta. The Indo-Pak war, the Bangladesh liberation struggle, and the influx of thousands of refugees from what was then East Pakistan created a chaotic atmosphere, leaving many people mentally distressed and displaced. In response to this alarming situation, in the year 1971, Dr. Satrujit Dasgupta, Dr. R.B. Davis, Mr. P.M. John, and Brother Andrew of the Missionaries of Charity, with the compassionate support of Calcutta’s patron saint, Mother Teresa, came together to establish the Antara Society. Their mission was to provide care, treatment, and rehabilitation to the homeless, destitute, and those suffering from mental disorders, including drug addiction and alcoholism.
Antara was formally registered under the West Bengal Societies Registration Act of 1961 as a non-governmental, non-profit, secular, and charitable organization. It initially operated a psychiatric outpatient clinic at the Janata Medical Service in the Mar Thoma Church Centre, Calcutta. This clinic, which began operations in 1971, continues to function every Tuesday, serving as a testament to Antara’s enduring commitment to community mental health.
As the number of people needing help grew, Antara expanded to a rented building in Picnic Garden, providing residential care and treatment. Antara handled the medical care, while the Missionaries of Charity took care of the resident patients. This collaborative facility served the community until 1982.
On 17th December 1979, a 2-acre plot of land was purchased in Hariharpur village on the Calcutta-Port Canning Road. On 4th May 1980, St. Mother Teresa laid the foundation stone for Antaragram, marking a historic milestone for the city and the organization. On 26th June 1982, the patients were relocated from the Picnic Garden home to the new center amidst the serene, green surroundings of Antaragram.
Today, Antaragram has blossomed into a state-of-the-art, scientifically operated institution offering modern, well-researched treatment and rehabilitation services to individuals with mental health challenges, as well as those struggling with substance abuse. Recognizing the growing need for intervention in cases of depression, Antara’s team of dedicated counselors and mental health professionals are providing vital support to the city, addressing this critical issue with expertise and compassion.
The popularity of Antara has grown significantly over the years, due to its excellence in service and commitment to holistic care. Our team’s unwavering dedication and the personalized attention we provide have made Antara a trusted name in mental health care, drawing patients not only from the city but also from across the country.
We are deeply grateful to our well-wishers, supporters, and donors whose generosity has made this well-managed facility possible. Antaragram now boasts excellent facilities, including residential treatment centers, occupational therapy and vocational training units, outpatient departments, accommodation for residential staff, recreation centers, a community kitchen, and a bakery. Our dedicated team of doctors, nurses, caregivers, and trainees, along with recovering inmates and the families of residential staff, contribute to the uniqueness of Antara.
Apart from providing patients with a family-like atmosphere, the community members ensure 24-hour care for the residents. The community shares a common kitchen, celebrates national festivals, and participates in annual sports events, cultural competitions, and social gatherings in a lively and loving environment. The governing body remains actively involved in all activities, demonstrating genuine care and concern for the well-being of everyone at Antara.
Antara stands as a testament to the power of compassion, community, and care. It is a living legacy that continues to inspire and uplift those in need.
As laid down in the Memorandum of Association:
God Is Love,
God loves each and every one of us,
Let us love one another,
Let Antara be an expression of God’s love for us and our love for each other.
As laid down in the Memorandum of Association:
The ever-increasing complexities of modern life are creating more problems for the human mind to cope with. Mental illness, including addiction and alcoholism, are assuming greater proportions as challenging social problems. Antara is a response to this challenge. We strive to extend a helping hand to the man in mental distress.
The Mission of Antara is to alleviate suffering of people afflicted with mental illness, addiction, and alcoholism, especially the destitute and the poor. Antara shall strive to do this with love, patience, and compassion.
