Ravi Gulati has become one of EastEnders‘ most complex and terrifying characters. Played by Aaron Thiara since 2022, the Walford villain has evolved from a ruthless drug dealer to a broken man fighting his own mind. Therefore, his current mental health storyline has gripped viewers like never before .
From murdering his adoptive father to discovering he has two secret children, Ravi’s journey has been dramatic. However, his recent decline into self-harm and psychosis has become the soap’s most sensitive and powerful storyline to date .
Who Is Ravi Gulati?
Ravi first appeared in Walford in July 2022 as a fellow prisoner of Phil Mitchell. He was initially introduced as a former associate of Kheerat Panesar. However, a huge twist later revealed he is actually the secret son of Nish Panesar, making him the half-brother of Kheerat, Jags, Vinny and Ash [citation:2].
His adoptive father was Ranveer Gulati, whom Ravi later murdered. He then let his stepmother Suki believe that she had killed him. Therefore, his villainous credentials were established very early on [citation:2].
Like Ellie Warner found fame on Gogglebox, Aaron Thiara found fame on EastEnders as one of its most dangerous residents.
The Current Mental Health Crisis
In recent months, Ravi’s mental health has seriously declined. The trigger was a revelation that he was responsible for son Nugget’s epilepsy diagnosis. He attacked Nugget while under the influence of drugs, believing the teenager was his dead father Nish [citation:10].
Since then, viewers have watched him self-harm, experience hallucinations and lose control. In one harrowing scene, he sprang out of bed and tried to lash out at girlfriend Priya while asleep [citation:1].
He later used padlocks to lock his family inside their flat, confiscating their phones. He claimed it was a “reset day” but was actually having a psychotic episode [citation:6].
Like Mark Labbett faced personal health battles, Ravi is facing a battle for his sanity on screen.
The Terrifying Car Crash
In episodes airing this week, Ravi’s family attempted to drive him to hospital. However, he spotted signs directing them to the emergency department and panicked. As Priya took her eye off the road, their car collided with one driven by Max Branning, who was returning from a nursery mixer with Cindy Beale and their grandson Jimmy [citation:4].
Ravi initially imagined that everyone escaped safely. The reality was far worse. Flames began to climb over the bonnet, with family members still trapped inside [citation:4].
The aftermath saw Ravi slip away from hospital and return to Walford. In a devastating sequence, he climbed onto the viaduct, sitting dangerously on the edge of the railings. Priya and Nugget pleaded with him to come down, and thankfully he did [citation:4].
Samaritans Involvement
EastEnders worked closely with Samaritans to ensure the storyline was handled responsibly. Lorna Fraser, Head of Media Advisory Service at Samaritans, said storylines like this “can help tackle stigma and encourage viewers who might be struggling” [citation:8].
Executive producer Ben Wadey added that the show wanted to handle Ravi’s story with the “care and sensitivity it deserves” [citation:8].
Viewers have praised the soap for tackling such a difficult subject with realism and compassion.
Nina Gupta’s Surprise Return
Amid the crisis, a familiar face returned to Walford. Nina Gupta, Ravi’s ex-girlfriend and former stepmother, appeared as the doctor treating him in hospital. Fans will remember Nina from 2022, when she was married to Ranveer Gulati and helped cover up his murder [citation:1].
Nina questioned whether Ravi had a proper support network. She branded Priya a “liability” and worried about what had caused Ravi’s condition. She eventually discharged him on the condition that he continued working with his therapist [citation:1].
Like Jenny Ryan is known for her sharp mind, Nina is known for her sharp words and complicated history with the Gulati family.
Aaron Thiara: The Man Behind Ravi
Aaron Thiara was born on May 4, 1993, in Wolverhampton. He trained at the East 15 Acting School in Loughton. Before EastEnders, he worked as a fight director on projects including Bridgerton in 2022 [citation:5][citation:7].
For his role as Ravi, Thiara has won Villain of the Year at the British Soap Awards and has been nominated for Best Newcomer. He has also received nominations at the National Television Awards and Inside Soap Awards [citation:7].
“It’s a gift!” Thiara said of being part of EastEnders‘ big storylines. “I am deeply grateful and very appreciative to be part of such a landmark milestone for the show” [citation:5].
What’s Next for Ravi?
After being sectioned under the Mental Health Act, Ravi’s future in Walford remains uncertain. Police arrived at the viaduct to take him into care. Terrified and confused, he screamed out to Priya that he was now better and able to return home [citation:4].
Whether he will be sectioned for a prolonged period or return to the Square remains to be seen. Will Priya stand by him? And how will Nugget cope knowing his father was responsible for his epilepsy? [citation:4].
Conclusion
Ravi Gulati’s mental health storyline has become one of EastEnders‘ most powerful and sensitive arcs. From self-harm to psychosis, the show has portrayed a man losing his grip on reality with remarkable honesty. Therefore, Aaron Thiara’s performance has earned widespread critical acclaim.
With Samaritans involved and viewers praising the show’s approach, this storyline may genuinely help those struggling in silence. Consequently, Ravi’s battle has become must-watch television.
FAQs
Who plays Ravi in EastEnders?
Ravi Gulati is played by actor Aaron Thiara, who joined the show in 2022.
Who is Ravi’s son in EastEnders?
Ravi has a son named Davinder “Nugget” Gulati, played by Juhaim Rasul Choudhury.
Who is Ravi’s daughter in EastEnders?
Ravi has a daughter named Avani Nandra-Hart, played by Aaliyah James. He also has a secret second daughter from his past.
What is wrong with Ravi in EastEnders?
Ravi is suffering from a severe mental health crisis, including psychosis, self-harm and hallucinations. He has been sectioned under the Mental Health Act.
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