EastEnders fans were left in tears after a devastating visit to Walford on Thursday, April 23, which saw Ravi Gulati (Aaron Thiara) sectioned after attempting to take his own life. The popular character has been struggling with his mental health for months, with Priya Nandra-Hart (Sophie Khan Levy) determined to get him the help he needs after she discovered that he had been self-harming.
The situation escalated rapidly earlier this week when Ravi, convinced that his enemies were out to get him, obtained new locks for the flat he shares with his partner and their kids Nugget (Juhaim Rasul Choudhury) and Avani (Aaliyah James). Priya was concerned when Ravi would not let her leave, as were Avani and Nugget when they stumbled upon the new locks. Ravi broke down when confronted over the bruises on Priya's arm, which he had unknowingly inflicted during a nightmare, and he subsequently confirmed that he was the one who accidentally attacked Nugget.
With emotions at an all-time high, Priya successfully managed to secure her freedom by telling Ravi that they would leave Walford together, but a crash ensued on the way to the hospital, leaving everyone in need of medical attention. Ravi was devastated and thus left the hospital and made his way back to the Square, where he stood on the edge of a bridge, attempting to take his own life. Priya watched in devastation before attempting to talk Ravi down, making him see that he is still very much loved. Nugget, meanwhile, raced to support his dad, begging him 'don't go' in emotional scenes. Ravi reconsidered and broke down, hugging his loved ones with all his might. The police subsequently arrived and sectioned Ravi, who will next week receive a diagnosis of complex PTSD.
The episode in question received praise from fans, particularly the performance from Ravi star Aaron Thiara, who was nothing short of incredible. Metro reader Sharon said that they 'actually cried' when watching the episode. 'He is a great actor, and it's a great storyline; men's mental health isn't addressed enough.' Olwyn added: 'This had me in tears. So real', while Linda said: 'This has broken my heart to watch, brilliant acting by Ravi and his family.' 'The acting by Aaron Thiara was exceptional,' said Barbara. 'The emotional scenes showing Ravi's mental health battle had me in tears.' Debbie felt that the episode proves that EastEnders has 'really lifted their game.'
'The storylines are great and shows the versatility of the actors,' they wrote. 'Seeing this side of Ravi is upsetting and a true representation of a person struggling.' It was a sentiment that Anne agreed with, commenting: 'It's great this storyline allowed the actor to show his talent. Not an easy part to play and must have been extremely difficult and draining for him.' Next week, Ravi will begin therapy sessions following his diagnosis.
EastEnders airs Mondays to Thursdays at 7:30pm on BBC One or streams from 6am on BBC iPlayer. If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, help is available. Contact Samaritans for free 24/7 support on 116 123 or visit samaritans.org.
