In a compelling fusion of art and advocacy, rising pop sensation Ananya has released her latest single, “Happy,“ alongside a striking music video, timed perfectly with Mental Health Awareness Month. Known for her introspective songwriting and genre-blending sound, Ananya continues to push boundaries with this new release, offering listeners a deeply personal exploration of emotions that are often hidden beneath the surface.

“Happy“ is an ambient pop track that encapsulates the complex relationship between genuine joy and the quiet uncertainties that often accompany it. Co-produced by Josh Berry, the song captures the raw, messy feelings that emerge when happiness isn’t as clear-cut as it seems. Ananya’s emotive lyrics reflect a period of personal introspection, where she grappled with the desire for clarity amid a whirlwind of conflicting emotions.

The accompanying music video, directed by Dirk Van Niekerk and filmed in the tranquil surroundings of Scarborough, Cape Town, amplifies the song’s theme of emotional duality. As the sun rises over a pastel sky, Ananya embarks on a symbolic drive in a vintage car named Primrose, representing the journey toward authentic happiness. The simple yet evocative visuals highlight fleeting moments of joy and vulnerability, mirroring the song’s exploration of emotions that often lie beneath the surface.

“We wanted to capture the feeling of trying to reach an emotional destination but never quite getting there,” Ananya explains. “It’s about acknowledging that sometimes what we show on the surface doesn’t reflect the complexity of what’s really going on inside.”

Ananya’s commitment to mental health is woven deeply into this project. As a mental-health advocate and the founder of The Nani Wellness Project, a non-profit dedicated to providing free mental healthcare services in Zimbabwe, she plans to channel proceeds from the “Happy” music video into supporting mental health initiatives. This cause is particularly close to her heart and aligns with her broader mission of raising awareness and providing support to underserved communities.

Raised in Harare and influenced by the strong women in her life, Ananya’s music consistently touches on themes of personal growth, resilience, and empowerment. Her latest single stays true to this ethos, blending her acoustic roots with an upbeat pop twist, offering a sound that is both fresh and familiar.

Ananya’s debut EP, i woke up one night, introduced her to a global audience, and she has since captivated fans with her genre-defying style and powerful storytelling. With “Happy,” she continues to build on her growing international presence, using her platform to not only entertain but also advocate for mental health awareness, especially during a time when such conversations are more critical than ever.

As a multi-instrumentalist, designer, and singer-songwriter, Ananya is more than just a musician—she’s a voice for change, and her latest release is both a reflection of her artistic evolution and a call to reflect on the emotional truths we often conceal. Through her music and advocacy, Ananya is redefining what it means to be an artist in the modern world.

The Nani Wellness Project: A philanthropist at heart, Ananya’s songwriting explores the deeper side of her struggle with mental health, which led her to co-found The Nani Wellness Project in December 2022. A non-profit organization with a focus on addressing the mental health crisis in Zimbabwe, where the public spending on mental health is estimated at $0.13 per capita, each year, the online app provides free virtual therapy to hundreds of users struggling with their mental health, and unable to afford traditional services. The Nani Wellness Project underscores Ananya’s dedication to increasing awareness and making tangible strides in the realm of mental health… Follow on Instagram @thenaniwellnessproject