About Us

The Birth of Antara

In March 1971, a compassionate group of volunteers began working among refugees from the erstwhile East Pakistan, responding to the immense humanitarian and mental health needs of some of the city’s most vulnerable communities.

Recognising the urgent need for organised and sustained intervention, the Antara Society was founded on 13 September 1971. Soon thereafter, an Outpatient Clinic was established at the Janata Medical Service, Mar Thoma Church Centre, Kolkata, providing much-needed psychiatric care to those who otherwise had little or no access to such services.

The need for more intensive care soon became apparent, and the Antara Indoor Clinic was subsequently established at Picnic Garden, Kolkata in November, 1971. This marked an important step in Antara’s evolution, bringing together psychiatric treatment, residential care, and compassionate support for individuals living with mental health challenges, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds.

6 December 1972 was a red-letter day in the history of Antara, when the Antara Society was formally registered under the West Bengal Societies Registration Act, 1961. This formal recognition provided the foundation for the organisation to expand its work and deepen its commitment to mental healthcare and rehabilitation.

From its conceptualization in 1971, legal formation in 1972 right through to December 1979, Antara continued to serve with dedication and compassion, reaching out particularly to individuals from underprivileged and marginalised communities who were living with mental health challenges. During these formative years, the organisation laid the foundations of a distinctive model of care – one that sought not merely to treat illness, but to restore dignity, hope, and a sense of belonging.

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.