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The Unstoppable Laughter of Dr. Nidhi Jaswal: A New Blueprint for Mental Wellness
- Women Story
- Jun 25
- 3 min read
It started with a moment of truth, not a business plan. For nearly 15 years, Dr. Nidhi Jaswal, a clinical psychologist, had built a fulfilling career in public health. Yet, a deeper calling persisted: to create something profoundly human and joyful, a venture that would redefine how we approach emotional well-being. This inner stirring gave birth to Ketawa – Centre for Behaviour Change in Chandigarh, India. Meaning "laughter" in Malay, Ketawa is more than just a name; it’s a revolutionary approach to mental health, stress, and genuine human connection.
Breaking Barriers with a Smile
Stepping away from a secure job wasn't easy. "Each time I thought of starting Ketawa, the security of a regular salary and professional identity would drag me back," Nidhi recalls. But her courage ultimately outweighed her comfort. Thus began her mission: to move mental health conversations from hushed tones to vibrant, public spaces, powered by laughter, science, and empathy.
The early days were tough. "People couldn't even pronounce Ketawa, let alone grasp what we were doing," she shares with a chuckle. But slowly, through workshops, counseling sessions, and laughter wellness programs, something remarkable unfolded: people began to feel lighter, heard, and deeply connected.
Laughter as a Therapeutic Tool? Absolutely.
What truly sets Ketawa apart is its innovative use of laughter wellness as a research-backed behavioral intervention. Unlike conventional therapy or stress seminars, Ketawa integrates clinical psychology, behavioral science, and playful group interaction to cultivate emotional resilience.
The team’s core services include:
Laughter Wellness Programs in schools and workplaces.
Stress Management Workshops for educators, youth, and healthcare professionals.
Leadership and Personal Development Modules.
Individual and Group Counseling.
Health Talks, Digital Detoxes, and Mindfulness Tools.
This isn't just feel-good fluff. Every program is evidence-based, frequently supported by impact studies and behavioral metrics, giving them credibility even in the most skeptical corporate boardrooms.
From Skepticism to Soaring Success
Convincing organizations and hospitals that shared laughter could genuinely alleviate stress was an uphill battle. "In our culture, laughter is still often seen as mere entertainment, not a tool for healing," Nidhi explains. Yet, her persistence was unwavering.
What ultimately turned the tide?
Results.
In just two years, Ketawa has:
Partnered with over 15 organizations.
Conducted more than 100 laughter sessions.
Delivered over 50 stress management workshops.
Facilitated more than 1,500 counseling sessions.
Reached over 10,000 individuals across India and globally.
Perhaps most notably, Ketawa organized the world's first Laughter Survey in India, an ambitious public health initiative that garnered attention from major national newspapers.
Beyond structured sessions, Ketawa has further extended its impact. They recently published Unwind: A Stress-Busting Guide for Young Minds, a practical book aimed at helping young people navigate anxiety and emotional overload. From engaging global VIPs to mentoring psychology students, Dr. Nidhi and her team are actively building a future where mental wellness is accessible, enjoyable, and free from stigma.
Wisdom from the Woman Behind the Movement
Dr. Nidhi’s advice for aspiring women entrepreneurs is simple yet powerful: start where you are, but start.
"Don't wait for the 'perfect time' or external validation. If you believe in your idea and are willing to work for it, leap. Surround yourself with people who lift you, not limit you."
She emphasizes that entrepreneurship isn’t about lofty titles or funding rounds. "It's about impact—changing lives, creating safe spaces, and doing it with purpose."
The Healing Power of Human Connection
Dr. Nidhi’s journey isn’t just about launching a business; it’s about transforming a culture. Ketawa demonstrates that even in a fast-paced, high-stress world, healing can emerge from shared smiles, heartfelt conversations, and a dose of laughter therapy.
As one participant eloquently put it, "When you are in trouble, laugh double—and your trouble will vanish like a bubble." Perhaps, this is the most revolutionary form of wellness there is.
Website: https://www.ketawacbc.org/
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