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Brush of Hope Launches Mobile App to Combat Cyberbullying and Online Exploitation,CM Devendra Fadnavis Calls It a ‘Game Changer’

 In a major step to fight cyberbullying and online exploitation, Brush of Hope unveiled its mobile application, chatbot, and revamped website on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at Hotel Blue Sea, Worli, in collaboration with Maharashtra Cyber Police.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis addressed the event through an audio-visual message, calling the initiative a “game changer” for tackling cybercrime. He congratulated Dr. Sheetal Gagrani, Mrs. Minu Deora, Mrs. Rupal Kanakia, Mrs. Gayatri Oberoi, ADGP Yashasvi Yadav and the entire team of Brush of Hope for their commendable efforts.

The event was attended by Maharashtra Cyber’s Additional Director General of Police Yashasvi Yadav (IPS), Mumbai Municipal Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani, Joint Commissioner of Police (Law and Order) Satyanarayan Chaudhary (IPS), actress Sonali Bendre, actor Jackky Bhagnani, and other dignitaries.

“This app will be of great help to victims of cyberbullying and sextortion. It is also an important step towards women’s empowerment,” said Sonali Bendre. ADGP Yashasvi Yadav assured that Maharashtra Cyber would extend full support to Brush of Hope in this initiative.

Founded by Dr. Sheetal Gagrani in memory of her niece Swara, who lost her life due to cyberbullying and sextortion, Brush of Hope works to ensure that no one suffers similar trauma. The organisation offers free services including counselling, legal guidance, awareness workshops, training programmes and public outreach campaigns.

Key Features of the App:

* Instant Help: Direct access to trained counsellors and legal experts

* Ease & Convenience: Simple, user-friendly interface

* Privacy & Security: Confidential digital support for victims

* Comprehensive Guidance: Emotional and legal assistance

Alongside the app, the revamped Brush of Hope website was also launched, featuring a new design, interactive features, reporting options and enhanced awareness resources.

Dr. Gagrani said the app, chatbot and website have been created to help victims come forward without fear and access legal and emotional support free of cost. She credited Maharashtra Cyber Police for their cooperation in making the campaign possible.

Impact Since Inception:

 Since launching its Helpline (022-65366666) for victims of cyberbullying and online abuse on 7th March 2024, Brush of Hope has made a significant nationwide impact:

* More than 3,500 distress calls received

* An average of 17 calls per day, reflecting widespread need

* 43 critical cases resolved successfully through counselling alone - saving lives without legal escalation

* 15 active cases currently under continuous care and monitoring

* Over 8,000 students sensitized through screenings of the movie Binny and Family and cyber safety workshops across schools and foundations

These achievements stand as a testament to BoH’s unwavering commitment to building a future where every victim of cyberbullying and online abuse finds a safe voice, a healing hand, and a path toward justice.

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