How Rachna Studies
"My method of studying depends upon what I am trying to learn about. If my goal is to learn an art such as cooking or music, I follow the footsteps of my teacher (whoever I am learning from; be it my mother, a friend or a professional). If the goal is to understand a concept I would do an extensive reading of both academic and non-academic writings, watch videos and listen to related podcasts. My understanding deepens when I discuss the subject with my friends and the clarity comes with writing. I share my writings at social media or at times in conferences for further discussions. Whenever possible I do like explaining the concept to the kids in my family as well as to other family members. This brings me joy of growing together."
Select Quotes:
On Vijay Nallawala
"Nallawala's world went upside down when he found out that he had Bipolar disorder. Yet, through his perseverance and determination he not only rebuilt his world but is now helping many others in doing so."
On Navigating Challenges
"Before the diagnosis Nallawala had a well established audio-visual equipment rental business in Mumbai. However, he had to shut down the business after his manic symptoms started
appearing at the age of 40 which led to, inter alia, his hospitalisation. His decision to make a midlife career
switch strained his personal and professional lives. Meanwhile his health kept worsening and he started having
various side effects of the psychiatric medications."
"Inspite of the difficulties he did not lose hope, continued
taking his medications and kept building a holistic lifestyle to recover. He worked out a favourable diet with the
help of a nutritionist and included Yoga, walks, breathing exercises, relaxation techniques and meditation in his
routine. During his depressive phases when even getting out of the bed was difficult, he managed to continue
his walks through his will power. He found hope from videos... and documentary film,... He learnt how to track his emotions... Workshops helped him in building
healthy familial relations and other skills while writing turned out to be therapeutic for him."
On Achievements and/or Social Impact
"His autobiography
has helped in generating awareness of the Bipolar disorder. His group, Bipolar India, provides real time support
to the PMIs (Person with mental Illnesses) and caregivers through two telegram groups and by organising
offline meets and events in various cities. Bipolar India's contribution in destigmatising mental illnesses and
bringing societal attitudinal changes has been widely acknowledged. Nallawala's opinions are sought by the well
established names in the field of mental health. His initiative, let's walk together is making society inclusive and
diverse by helping PMIs in finding livelihood. He engages in mental health advocacy at various platforms. "
On Inspiring
"His
relentless efforts to empower his community continues to guide and inspire many. The hardest part for Nallawala was accepting his diagnosis. The diagnosis of a mental illness is certainly a turning point in someone's life. But it didn't stop Nallawalla from developing a creative and vibrant personality, building passion for photography and fitness as well as a great zest for life. He craved for a happy family and now he has one. If Nallawalla can find the will and the ways to fulfil his dreams, so can my friend but she needs to keep her hope alive as he did."
About Rachna
"I am a Senior Research Fellow pursuing my PhD from the Centre for South Asian Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University, India. My areas of research interest are autoethnography, mental illness, life narratives and culture studies. My PhD thesis is about the medical culture in South Asia with focus on the biomedicalisation of Ayurvedic education in the post-colonial period. I have gained knowledge about a long-standing tradition by learning about Ayurveda. In addition to my research, I keep visiting historical sites, ancient temples and pilgrimage centres to learn about culture and traditions. As a retrophiliac, I enjoy exploring ruins and cherish my ancestors' possessions. I admire MSM Bright Suns for promoting the spirit of life long learning. It's an honour to be selected as an MSM Bright Suns Scholar."
