Dr. Anupama Vaidya (hc)

By Dr. Anupama Vaidya (hc) There is something about a full moon that makes me pause and look up. Watching that perfect, golden-orange orb rise slowly in the evening sky feels special each time. A heavenly presence whose beauty never quite becomes familiar, however often we see it. And then there are full moon nights that hold an added significance, carrying stories, traditions and meanings that deepen our connection with them. Today is one such night – Sharad Pournima, fondly celebrated as Kojagiri Pournima. My memories of Kojagiri take me back to my childhood days – perhaps one of the little joys of being on the other side of fifty! I remember the aroma of saffron rising from the masala milk Mom lovingly prepared, the delicious bhel that accompanied it, and the joy of settling down together for antakshari or a game of Scrabble. How easily an evening would stretch into the night having such a wonderful time. One such evening remains especially etched in my mind. I was in the fourth sta...

By Dr. Anupama Vaidya (hc) There are certain thoughts that stay with us long after we have written them.   Last year, on Guru Pournima, I reflected on The Transformative Power of the Guru-Shishya Relationship in Leadership , drawing upon the timeless wisdom that the Guru appears when the Shishya is ready. It was my tribute to the mentors whose presence has quietly, yet profoundly, shaped my life, and a reflection on what it truly means to be ready to receive from one’s Gurus – to become a worthy disciple.  This Guru Pournima, as I bow with gratitude to my Gurus, I also feel deeply touched by the many wishes I receive as a mentor. It is heartening to know that my work continues to touch lives, offer insights and make a meaningful difference.  Yet such recognition also carries with it a quiet responsibility – to remain worthy of being seen as a guide.  This year, however, my reflections have taken me to a different place.   Even as I continue to revere those who ...

  Reflection  ·  Easter 2026 By Dr. Anupama Vaidya (hc) Easter has always held a special place in my soul. More than a celebration, it feels like a sacred journey — one that begins in introspection, deepens through surrender and silence, and ultimately arrives at hope, renewal, and new life. Perhaps this connection was shaped early — through my years in a convent school, through dear friends who observed this season with devotion, and in recent years, through Sunita's deeply enriching presence in my life. Over time, this period from Ash Wednesday through Lent and Easter has come to feel not merely like a period in the calendar, but a gentle and profound inner pilgrimage. During this Lenten period, several conversations with Sunita have been naturally flowing towards taking a pause and looking within — reflecting on what must be shed, what must be strengthened, and what must be surrendered. Maundy Thursday reminding us of humility, love, and service; Good Friday drawing us...

By Dr. Anupama Vaidya (hc). 2-Apr-2026.  There are some divine presences we do not merely worship; we return to them, again and again, for anchoring, courage, and inner steadiness. For me, Hanumanji has always been one such sacred force. The very chant of the Hanuman Chalisa , the sight of devotees offering oil and prayers with folded hands, the deeply reassuring image of Bajrangbali standing tall with strength, humility, and devotion; all of it evokes not only reverence, but also a sense of protection, discipline, and unwavering faith. Last year, in my reflection on Hanumanji, I wrote about the many virtues he embodies so powerfully — servant-leadership, humility, courage, presence of mind, empathy, discernment, and complete devotion to purpose. I reflected on how Hanumanji teaches us that true leadership is not always about position or prominence; often, it lies in the willingness to serve, to act with courage, to stay humble despite power, and to place the mission above onese...