Depression is a common neuropsychiatric disorder associated with disturbances in monoaminergic neurotransmission. The present study aimed to evaluate the antidepressant potential of the ethanolic extract of Mesua ferrea using a reserpine-induced depression model in rats. Depression was induced by administering reserpine (5 mg/kg, i.p.) 18 hours prior to behavioral assessment. The animals were divided into six groups: normal control, reserpine control, standard drug (Fluoxetine 20 mg/kg, i.p.) with reserpine, and three test groups receiving the extract at doses of 100, 150, and 200 mg/kg (i.p.) along with reserpine. Antidepressant activity was assessed using the Forced Swim Test, Tail Suspension Test, and Open Field Test. Reserpine administration significantly increased immobility time and reduced locomotor activity, confirming induction of depressive-like behavior. Treatment with fluoxetine significantly reversed these changes. The ethanolic extract of Mesua ferrea produced a dose-dependent reduction in immobility time and improved locomotor and exploratory behavior, with the 200 mg/kg dose showing effects comparable to the standard drug. The Mesua ferrea possesses significant antidepressant-like activity in reserpine-induced depression, possibly mediated through modulation of monoaminergic pathways and the presence of bioactive phytoconstituents such as flavonoids and phenolics. Further studies are required to elucidate the exact mechanism of action.