Talk to Someone
You don't need to have the right words. You don't need to know what's wrong.
If something feels heavy — that's enough reason to call.
Pukar Helpline
966389666910 AM to 2 PM, all days
English & Hindi (Kannada on some days)
Your call is private. We don't ask your name. We don't record calls.
What happens when you call
A trained volunteer will answer. They'll listen — patiently, without rushing you. They won't give advice or try to fix things. They're simply there, with you, for as long as you need.
If you're having thoughts of ending your life or hurting yourself — you can call us too. You don't need to be in crisis to reach out, and you don't need to hold back if you are.
What we don't do
We're not therapists or counsellors. We don't diagnose, advise, or try to fix. We listen. If you need clinical support, we can help point you toward the right people.
What callers say
“Thank you so much for listening so patiently to me for so long. No one in my family listens to me so much.”
“I call and talk at Pukar almost every week, as I can speak my mind freely and go back and focus on other things.”
Other helplines
If we're not available when you call, or if you need specialised support, these helplines are here for you.
Connecting Trust (Pune)
+91-9922001122, +91-9922004305
Maithri (Kochi)
0484-2540530
Tele-MANAS (Govt. of India)
14416 / 1800-89-14416
Arpita (Bangalore)
080-23655557, 080-23656667
Sumaitri (Delhi)
011-46018404, +91-9315767849
Sangath
011-41198666
These helplines are listed for informational purposes. Details may change — please verify directly.
Frequently asked questions
Pukar is Samacitta's free emotional support helpline. We offer a safe space where you can share what you're going through — without fear, without judgement.
Anyone. You don't need a diagnosis or a "serious enough" reason. If you're feeling overwhelmed, lonely, anxious, or just need to talk — that's enough.
A trained volunteer will answer. They'll listen with care and patience. They won't tell you what to do, won't judge your choices, and won't rush you. You can share as much or as little as you want.
Yes. We don't ask for your name. We don't keep records of calls. We don't record calls. What you share stays between you and the person you're speaking with.
No. Our approach is about listening, not instructing. You can talk openly without fear of being judged or given unsolicited advice.
We understand that you care deeply about someone. However, we respect each person's right to seek support in their own way. We encourage you to gently suggest that they call us themselves. If you're feeling worried or burdened by the situation, you're welcome to call and talk about what you're going through.
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, please call emergency services (112) right away. We are here for emotional support, but we are not equipped for emergency intervention.
No. Pukar is completely free. Standard call charges from your phone provider may apply.
10 AM to 2 PM, all days. If you call outside these hours, please try the other helplines listed on this page.