My Journey: From a Student to an Author

The Beginning of a Journey into Repertory

The year was 1988. Picture a bustling campus of the prestigious Nehru Homeopathic Medical College & Hospital (NHMC), New Delhi, where young aspiring homeopaths tread with dreams in their eyes. It was here, during my final year of homeopathic graduation, that I truly embarked on my journey into the world of repertory. Regular classes were the norm, but there was something more. Something special.

A hidden gem, on the third floor of the hospital wing of NHMC, awaited us. An air-conditioned seminar room – a rarity and a luxury during that era in India. Summers in Delhi are notoriously hot, and those air-conditioned classes felt like a soothing balm. Just imagine the contrast – walking under the scorching sun from the main college building, only to be greeted by a burst of cool air upon entering the seminar room. Such moments were treasured.

But it wasn’t just the environment that was invigorating. Our minds were nurtured and challenged by lectures from the three pillars of homeopathy during that time – Dr. Jugal Kishore, Dr. Diwan Harish Chand, and Dr. DP Rastogi. Their wisdom, experience, and passion for the subject were infectious.

One vivid memory I carry with me is of Dr. Diwan Harish Chand. He wasn’t just known for his vast knowledge but also for his grand entrance. He used to drive a large, majestic car – reminiscent of an Impala, though I cannot be entirely certain of its make. Nonetheless, seeing such a grand vehicle glide into the NHMC compound was a spectacle in itself, evoking gasps of admiration from onlookers.

This amalgamation of experiences – the cooling comfort of the AC room, the wisdom of the stalwarts, and the allure of grandeur – shaped a significant chapter of my educational journey in homeopathy.

Embracing Technological Advances in Homeopathy

1989 was a pivotal year in my journey into repertory, not just for what I had learned so far, but for what awaited me in the second half. It was during this time that I encountered the fusion of traditional homeopathy and the dawning of the digital age.

On one of those regular days, I found myself at the residence of my senior, Dr. JPS Bakshi. There, to my astonishment, I witnessed something that felt like a portal to the future – a pristine white McIntosh computer. Its sleek design and inviting screen seemed to beckon me closer, enticing me with its charm.

But it wasn’t just the computer itself that left me in awe. What truly captivated me was the MacRepertory software it housed. Watching Dr. Bakshi navigate through it, I was astounded by the ease and precision with which he could determine homeopathic remedies for patients. Gone were the cumbersome paper repertory charts we meticulously pored over during our graduation. Here, at my fingertips, was the future of homeopathy. The seamless blending of tradition with technology hinted at the endless possibilities ahead, reshaping the way I viewed homeopathy and its future trajectory.

Venturing into the Digital Realm

As 1990 rolled around, the allure of repertory and its potential in the digital age became undeniable. The spark that was lit within me after seeing the MacRepertory software grew into a burning desire to embrace the technological shift that was reshaping homeopathy.

Buying a computer then was no small feat, particularly for a clinic. In those days, owning a computer was not just a luxury; it was a statement, a commitment to progress and innovation. The price was hefty, but the idea of revolutionizing my practice was irresistible.

I recall the bustling energy at homeopathic conferences and seminars. Stalls upon stalls of homeopathic software developers showcased their latest innovations, each vying for the attention of curious homeopathic doctors. It was a time of exploration and enthusiasm, where learning took place not just through lectures but through hands-on demonstrations of the latest software.

With a nudge from my cousin, Mr. Mahabir Singhal, I made the bold decision to invest in my very own desktop computer. With the assistance of Mr. Sanjay Verma, a known acquaintance, we embarked on the venture of assembling my first computer. I can still visualize Sanjay sourcing the parts from the bustling tech hub of Nehru Place in New Delhi and then assembling them with meticulous care. I vividly remember the day he delivered it, transporting this beacon of modernity in his father’s classic Fiat car.

It was a sight to behold – my brand new computer setup in the clinic. With its CGA monitor, a 20 MB hard disk drive, 640 KB RAM, a 5.25-inch floppy drive, and an 80-column dot matrix printer, it felt like I had a giant of technology at my disposal. And powering it all was the DOS 2.2 operating system. To many today, these specifications might seem quaint, but back then, it was nothing short of revolutionary. It wasn’t just about owning a computer; it was about being at the forefront of a new era in homeopathy.

The Quest for the Perfect Software

With the computer in place, the next step was clear: I needed the right software. While Delhi was quiet on the conference front, I wasn’t about to let that slow me down. In 1991, I embarked on a journey across the country, fueled by an insatiable curiosity to explore the digital offerings tailored for homeopathy.

My first stop was Bombay, the city of dreams, where the blend of traditional and modern homeopathy was palpable. I spent an enlightening day with Dr. Jawahar Shah of Hompath, absorbing his insights and expertise. The next day, I met with Mr. Ravi Kunder of Polychrest, another innovator in the homeopathic software realm. With each interaction, I found myself gaining clarity on what I wanted for my clinic.

Pune was next on my list, where I rendezvoused with Mr. Vaidya of Kentopath. The city’s rich history of blending traditional therapies with modern practices provided an inspiring backdrop for our discussions.

Bangalore beckoned after Pune. While one software developer from the city unfortunately couldn’t meet, serendipity had other plans for me. I reconnected with Dr. BS Manjunath, whom I knew to be one of the pioneering homeopaths integrating computer technology into his practice. The morning visit to his clinic was insightful, and his warm invitation for dinner was an experience in itself. Spending those hours with Dr. Manjunath not only offered a deeper dive into the digital world of homeopathy but also strengthened our camaraderie.

Upon my return to Delhi, with the wisdom from my travels and the experiences from my interactions, I was ready. It was time to make a crucial decision about which homeopathic software would be the crown jewel of my clinic’s tech arsenal.

The Digital Transformation of a Homeopath

Having a guide during a new venture is always a boon, and in my case, it was Dr. JPS Bakshi, a dear friend from school and a guiding senior from my homeopathic college. With his encouragement, I took the leap and acquired the software for my clinic. This was not just a mere installation, but a transformation of how I practiced homeopathy.

The 1990s were an era of burgeoning digital evolution, especially for specialized fields like homeopathy. Many were apprehensive about this merger of technology with an age-old practice, but the benefits were undeniable. The software not only streamlined the process of determining remedies but also provided a vast repository of knowledge at the click of a button.

As I dived deeper into this digital realm, I encountered many fellow homeopaths who were also embracing the shift. It was fascinating to learn from each of them. Every software had its unique features and advantages, and I was eager to explore them all. It was like being part of an exclusive club where members were pioneering a new age of homeopathic practice.

We were a community bound by our love for homeopathy and our excitement for its digital evolution. The connections I made during this period were invaluable. We shared experiences, discussed the pros and cons of different softwares, and above all, celebrated the fusion of technology with our beloved profession.

This phase was more than just about softwares. It was about camaraderie, shared learning, and the joint journey of traditional homeopaths into the world of modern technology.

A Foray into Historical Insights

One of the most memorable episodes from my digital journey into homeopathy was a visit to Dr. CS Sandhu’s residence. Nestled in the picturesque Lodhi Colony, his house bore witness to many homeopathic discussions, and on this particular day, our topic was Kent’s Repertory.

As I entered his study, the first thing I noticed was his desktop computer, a rare sight in those days, especially among homeopaths. He enthusiastically showcased his work, and I couldn’t help but marvel at how modern technology was aiding our ancient practice. The juxtaposition was intriguing and, frankly, quite exhilarating.

The memory of our shared discussions at his place was refreshed when he later visited my residence. As we delved into conversations about homeopathic softwares and repertories, our talks expanded to homeopathic literature. Sharing a passion for homeopathic research, I showed him my collection of articles from the ‘British Homeopathic Journals’, a treasure I chanced upon during my regular visits to the National Medical Library (NML), situated near AIIMS, New Delhi.

During my internship, the library was a frequent haunt. Post my daily duties, I’d find solace amidst the musty pages of ancient medical journals in the basement of the NML. Hidden among the various medical publications was a rack dedicated to old homeopathic journals. It was as if I had struck gold! Delving deep into those pages, I would scan articles that caught my eye and have them photocopied right there in the library. These articles weren’t just papers; they were fragments of history, offering insights into practices, beliefs, and developments from another era.

Dr. Sandhu, recognizing the value of these articles, took some photocopies for his reference. Our shared respect for these artifacts only deepened our bond, making me realize that homeopathy was not just about remedies and practices; it was about the history, the evolution, and the passion for continuous learning.

The Literary Expeditions

Libraries have always been a haven for me. They are not just about the books they house but about the myriad worlds they contain and the knowledge they preserve. Each library I frequented in Delhi held its own charm and treasure trove of literature.

Close to Chitragupt Road was the Delhi Public Library. Its shelves boasted an array of older publications, some of which are hard to find these days. Ramakrishna Library on Punchkuin Road was another sanctuary, where quiet corners and well-thumbed books awaited the curious reader.

But my all-time favorite was the British Library at Connaught Place. Unlike the others, it was a bridge between the past and the present, with its mix of old classics and the latest homeopathic books from the UK. The annual book auction held by the British Library was a significant event for me. The idea of acquiring books that once resided in such a prestigious library excited me. Over the years, I added numerous invaluable volumes to my personal collection, both from the domain of homeopathy and from other fields of interest.

My literary adventures also led me to the old book market at Dariyaganj on Sundays. The scent of aging pages, the thrill of stumbling upon a rare find, and the joy of bargaining made these visits an exciting ritual. From classics to forgotten treasures, the market was a bibliophile’s paradise.

One cannot mention Dariyaganj without being whisked away to memories of childhood. As a child, I remember the old stuff bazaar located behind Jama Masjid. It was a wonderland for us kids. From ‘LotPot’ to ‘Chandamama’ and ‘Indrajal Comics’, these comics were the heroes of our summer holidays. It’s interesting how markets evolve with time. As the bazaar behind Jama Masjid moved behind the Red Fort, the cherished book market found its home in Dariyaganj.

These literary pilgrimages shaped my understanding and love for homeopathy and added layers to my personal and professional growth. They were a testament to the fact that knowledge is everywhere, waiting to be discovered, read, and cherished.

The Phoenix Project and Beyond

1995 marked a pivotal moment in my journey with homeopathy. Dr. JPS Bakshi, a mentor and friend, presented me with a golden opportunity to join his ‘Kaleidoscope’ venture. His trust in my abilities and my prior experience with computers at the clinic made me an apt choice for the project. But it wasn’t just ‘Kaleidoscope’ that intrigued me. Dr. Bakshi was spearheading another groundbreaking initiative on the international stage: the “Phoenix Repertory Project.”

The name alone was evocative – a Phoenix, rising from the ashes, symbolizes rebirth, and the notion of creating something innovative and powerful was alluring. From 1996 onwards, I delved deeply into the project. The ensuing six years were a whirlwind of research, collaboration, and innovation. With the collective effort of a dedicated team and under the visionary leadership of Dr. Bakshi, we successfully published ‘the Phoenix Repertory’ along with its subsequent extensions.

This period wasn’t just about creating a groundbreaking piece of work; it was about reshaping and modernizing the practice of homeopathy. Merging traditional wisdom with contemporary tools, we aimed to provide homeopathic practitioners with an efficient and modern approach to remedy selection and patient care.

The pride and satisfaction that came with the publication of the Phoenix Repertory were immeasurable. I realized that when passion, hard work, and innovation combine, the results can truly be revolutionary. The experience also solidified my belief in the importance of continuous learning and adaptation, values I carried with me throughout my career in homeopathy.

A New Chapter in Jaipur

2002 heralded another significant chapter in my journey through the world of homeopathy. I found myself stepping onto the esteemed grounds of Dr. MPK Homeopathic College in Jaipur, ready to embark on my post-graduation. Given the array of subjects at hand, making a choice wasn’t easy. I had dedicated seven enriching years to the ‘Phoenix Repertory Project’, immersing myself in the world of repertory. Naturally, it would seem an obvious choice for my further studies.

However, I had a different perspective. While my heart was deeply entrenched in repertory, I didn’t want my past work to overshadow or influence the new academic journey I was about to embark upon. Furthermore, I was wary of creating any unintended impression or expectation among peers and mentors. I wanted to be seen as a student, eager and ready to learn, rather than a specialist with presumed expertise.

So, I ranked “Materia Medica” as my primary choice, followed by “Repertory” and then “Organon”. Materia Medica, with its vast exploration of remedies and their properties, always held a certain allure. It was a field waiting to be delved into, full of nuances and intricacies. By choosing it as my primary subject, I intended to broaden my horizons and acquire a more holistic understanding of homeopathy.

This decision wasn’t merely about academics. It was about humility, growth, and the constant quest for knowledge. Even with years of experience behind me, I wanted to approach this new chapter with an open heart and an unquenchable thirst for learning.

Juggling Dual Responsibilities

The winds of fate have a peculiar way of charting our course. Despite my strategic preferences aimed at broadening my horizon in the world of homeopathy, life steered me back into familiar territory: Repertory. The college assigned me the Repertory subject for my post-graduate studies, the very subject I had painstakingly ranked as my second choice.

It was a twist I hadn’t anticipated. On one hand, I was deeply involved with Dr. JPS Bakshi’s ‘Phoenix Repertory Project’, a venture demanding immense dedication and focus. On the other hand, I now had the academic responsibilities of MD in Repertory to grapple with. The similar undertones of both the project and my postgraduate subject posed a significant challenge.

The stakes were high. My thesis work was not just another academic exercise; it was a culmination of years of study, embodying all the values and knowledge I held dear in the world of homeopathy. Meanwhile, the ‘Phoenix Repertory Project’ was a commitment I had made, a testament to my years of involvement and deep-rooted passion for the subject.

Treading this fine line wasn’t easy. Balancing the project while ensuring that my academic endeavors didn’t take a backseat required meticulous planning, prioritization, and a lot of late nights. But adversity, as they say, often brings out the best in us.

I had to dig deep, tap into reserves of determination I didn’t know I had. The ensuing months were a whirlwind of research, writing, discussions, and revisions. It was demanding, both mentally and physically. But through it all, I held onto one belief: this dual responsibility was not a burden, but an opportunity. An opportunity to immerse even deeper into the subject I loved, to make a meaningful contribution to the world of homeopathy, and above all, to grow both professionally and personally.

And as I navigated this challenging phase, I was reminded of a simple truth: It’s not the situations we find ourselves in that define us, but how we rise to meet them.

Venturing Into New Realms

While my past endeavors had been rooted in the Kentian system of homeopathic repertories, a desire to delve into new depths of homeopathy beckoned me. I felt the need to explore the more holistic paradigms of Boenninghausen and Boger. Their approaches, though different from Kent’s, held a certain allure that I was keen to explore.

In my quest for deeper understanding, I chanced upon the compact yet insightful booklets of Dr. P. Sankaran from Bombay. His work was not just enlightening but served as a beacon, guiding me through the intricate nuances of Boenninghausen and Boger’s methodologies. I realized the potential of integrating these teachings to further refine the Phoenix Repertory Project. Each page from Sankaran’s booklets seemed to echo with insights, broadening my perspective and understanding of the subject.

It was also during this phase that I delved into the contributions of Dr. ML Dhawle. His research and writings added another layer of depth to my understanding. The more I immersed myself in their works, the clearer my academic path became. BBCR (Boenninghausen’s Characteristics and Repertory) and the Synoptic Key resonated with my newfound direction and seemed like the perfect subjects for my research work.

This decision was pivotal. Not only did it offer me a fresh perspective after my prolonged engagement with the Kentian system, but it also pushed me to think outside the confines of established knowledge. It was a journey of exploration and discovery, taking me deeper into the heart of homeopathy, enriching both my academic endeavors and my contributions to the Phoenix Repertory Project.

Choosing to navigate this uncharted territory was challenging, but it was these very challenges that refined my expertise and solidified my commitment to the expansive world of homeopathy.

Seeking Guidance and Embracing the Digital Age

Before settling on a definitive direction for my research, I felt it necessary to seek guidance from those I held in high esteem. My interactions with Dr. Jugal Kishore had always been enlightening, and it was to him I turned to once again. His vast experience and deep knowledge in the field made his insights invaluable. Though he asked for time to consider my ideas, just the act of discussing my thoughts with him felt like a step in the right direction.

While waiting for Dr. Kishore’s feedback, I turned to a resource that was still relatively new but rapidly gaining prominence – the Internet. I had been an early adopter of this digital marvel, having started using it in 1995, right when VSNL introduced its services in Delhi. It was a transformative period, and the Internet was reshaping how knowledge was accessed and shared.

Through this vast digital platform, I connected with several doctors from diverse backgrounds, many of whom were actively engaged in work related to BBCR and Boger. These interactions were not just informative but also provided a broader perspective on the topics I was considering.

It was fascinating to see how the world of homeopathy was evolving in this digital age. Knowledge that was once confined to dusty library shelves was now accessible at the click of a button. This digital transition not only made research more efficient but also brought together like-minded individuals from across the globe.

While my research’s core was rooted in age-old wisdom and traditional methodologies, the means to access, refine, and share this knowledge had dramatically transformed. I was now standing at the crossroads of tradition and innovation, eager to harness the best of both worlds.

The Guiding Light

The phone rang, breaking the usual hum of my daily routine. On the other end was Dr. Rashmi, bearing a message that would set the direction for my upcoming venture. Dr. Jugal Kishore, the stalwart of homeopathy and a guiding figure in my professional journey, had summoned me.

As I made my way to meet him, a flurry of emotions engulfed me – anticipation, excitement, and a hint of nervousness. Dr. Kishore wasn’t just an esteemed figure in the realm of homeopathy; to me, he represented a wealth of wisdom, a living legacy. Every interaction with him had been a lesson in itself.

As I stepped into his presence, his demeanor was, as always, calm and welcoming. The room, filled with the rich aroma of old books and medicinal herbs, felt familiar and comforting. He listened intently as I laid out my ideas, his sharp eyes missing nothing.

Our discussion was deep and enlightening. He provided insights that only someone with his depth of experience could offer. The nuances he brought up, the perspectives he shared, and the way he connected the dots from various pieces of knowledge was nothing short of masterful. By the end of our meeting, the fog of uncertainty that had previously clouded my vision had lifted. I felt a renewed clarity and purpose.

As I left his office, the weight of his words and the gravity of our discussion settled in. It wasn’t just a meeting; it was a pivotal moment in my academic journey. With Dr. Kishore’s insights guiding my way, I was now surer than ever about the path I needed to take.

A Shared Vision

In the vast landscape of homeopathic research, the guidance of a seasoned expert is invaluable. I was fortunate to find such a mentor in Prof. Dr. MP Arya. He was appointed as my Guide by the college, and his visits to our Jaipur institution were always eagerly awaited. Prof. Arya’s lectures were not just educational; they were an experience. He wove deep insights seamlessly with captivating tales from his illustrious career, enriching our understanding at every step.

With my recent enlightenment from Dr. Jugal Kishore, I was eager to share my newfound clarity with Prof. Arya. As I outlined my vision and the foundation of my research proposal, I could see his interest pique. His sharp eyes assessed the intricacies of my plan, and his questions were as probing as they were insightful.

It was during one of these visits to Jaipur College, Prof. Dr. JD Daryani, the esteemed head of the Repertory department, and Prof. Arya gave their permission to work on my topic. My idea had not only received their nod but had evolved into a shared vision.

The endorsement from these eminent figures was more than just an approval; it was a testament to the robustness of the path I had chosen. Their belief in my project infused me with a newfound energy and confidence, propelling me further into my academic endeavors.

During those pivotal two years, I frequently communicated with Prof. Arya, primarily through the traditional postal system. It was a period of continuous feedback and refinement. Before finalizing my research work, I had sent him multiple drafts, approximately 2-3 versions, which he meticulously reviewed. Only after incorporating his invaluable inputs did I get it printed for submission to the Jaipur College.

A Reluctant Passion

It’s funny how destiny can sometimes push you towards a path that you never envisioned for yourself. I had begun my journey with a resolve: Repertory was not my calling. And within the confines of Repertory, the Kent system held no allure for me. Yet, as twists and turns of fate would have it, I found myself meandering through the very terrains I had once wished to avoid.

Amidst this backdrop, a chance meeting with Prof. Kalia proved pivotal. A maestro of the English language, Prof. Kalia held a unique perspective on the matter. We met in the serene surroundings of Vasant Kunj, and our conversation quickly turned to repertories. With the fervor of a true academician, he underscored the importance of abridged versions in scholarly works. Drawing a parallel, he spoke about the “Oxford English Dictionary” and how its abridged editions were instrumental in making the vast expanse of English language accessible to the common man.

This struck a chord with me. It was as if a veil had been lifted, revealing the direction I had been seeking all along. It was true; abridgment held the key to simplicity without compromising on the essence. And in Dr. Boger’s Synoptic Key and General Analysis, I saw the epitome of this principle. It was a masterclass in distilling vast and intricate knowledge into a more manageable, yet profound, format.

Further research into the evolution of the Synoptic Key revealed its various incarnations and adaptations over time. The painstaking craftsmanship of Dr. Boger, his attention to detail, and his dedication to preserving the essence of homeopathic principles in a condensed format were nothing short of awe-inspiring.

Despite my initial hesitations, I found myself drawn into the world of Repertory, not out of obligation, but a genuine intrigue. And in Dr. Boger’s works, I discovered a passion I never knew existed. The path was clear; my topic for postgraduation was decided. The reluctant scholar in me had found his muse.

A Chapter Concludes

2003 to 2004 was a whirlwind of dedicated study, compilation, and introspection. My thesis wasn’t just a product of academic rigor; it was a testament to a journey that spanned years, encompassing both my personal evolution as a scholar and my growth as a homeopath.

Working on a thesis is never a solitary endeavor. While it’s the individual’s name that graces the cover, the finished work is often the culmination of countless interactions, suggestions, critiques, and inspirations. Every conversation, every discussion, and every piece of feedback played a part in shaping my work into its final form.

In my acknowledgment, I made it a point to pay tribute to every person who played a part in this journey. From Dr. Jugal Kishore, who steered me with his wisdom, to Prof. Kalia, whose insights opened new horizons for me, each individual was a brick in the edifice of my research.

Further, every library visit, every old book unearthed in the corners of Dariyaganj, and every enlightening conversation over a cup of chai in the heart of Delhi – all of these experiences were integral to my work.

But beyond the academic and the scholarly, my acknowledgment was a personal note of gratitude. Gratitude to the universe for aligning my path in such a way, gratitude to the art and science of homeopathy for being a constant source of intrigue, and deep gratitude to all those who believed in me, even when I was uncertain about the path I was treading.

As I penned down the final words of my thesis, I realized that while this chapter of my life was concluding, the story was far from over. The knowledge I had acquired, the relationships I had forged, and the growth I had experienced would continue to shape my journey in the many years to come.

A New Chapter Unfolds

After the intense period of research and the completion of my thesis, life ushered me into a new chapter, one filled with teaching, guidance, and continual learning.

With Dr. Pankaj Aggarwal‘s invaluable assistance, a door opened for me at Bakson Homeopathic Medical College. It was a time of adapting to a new environment and familiarizing myself with a new cohort of students, each with their own unique background and aspirations.

However, life, with its serendipitous turns, led me back to familiar territories. I found myself at Dr. BR Sur Homeopathic College, a place where I could once again delve deep into the intricacies of homeopathy, now as a visiting faculty.

But the most nostalgic and profound moment was my association with Nehru Homeopathic Medical College – the very place where my journey in homeopathy began. It was a surreal experience. The corridors, classrooms, and even the seminar room on the third floor where I once sat as a student now echoed with my voice, guiding the next generation. The same institute which sowed the seeds of homeopathy in me, now became the platform where I could sow those seeds in young, budding homeopaths.

But beyond the institutions and positions, it was my association with the first batch of postgraduate students in Homeopathy at NHMC that truly stood out. It was an incredible experience to guide these young minds, who were just as eager and ambitious as I was during my days at the college. Their questions, their enthusiasm, and their fresh perspectives made me relive my student days, and at the same time, filled me with pride to see how far the field of homeopathy had come.

And so, as the days turned into years, life continued its unpredictable journey. From being a student absorbing knowledge to a mentor imparting wisdom, the cycle of learning never ceased. It was a beautiful reminder that in the realm of knowledge, one is always a student, and life’s journey is a perpetual classroom.

A Time of Reflection and Resilience

The onset of 2020 introduced an era of unprecedented challenges. The global Covid-19 pandemic brought the world to a standstill, and the ensuing lockdown provided a forced pause, a rare period of introspection.

Amidst the hush of the lockdown, I revisited my two-decade-old thesis work. Sorting through the massive files, old emails, and myriad photocopies, I was engulfed in nostalgia. The pages were more than mere documents; they were memories, a testament to the dedication, effort, and passion I poured into my research all those years ago.

However, that year turned out to be one of the most challenging times. The pandemic’s virulence was unlike anything anyone had witnessed. The news was filled with distressing stories, and hospitals were overflowing with patients. But what hit hardest was witnessing the loss of loved ones. Our family wasn’t spared, and the anguish of losing senior members left an indelible scar on our hearts.

2021 carried forward the shadow of the previous year. India grappled with the pandemic’s second wave, which was far deadlier than the first. The pain and panic were palpable, and the nation grieved as countless lives were lost.

By January 2022, just when we hoped to see the light at the end of this long, dark tunnel, the omicron variant surfaced, marking the pandemic’s third wave. My family and I, like countless others, were not spared from its clutches.

As days turned into weeks and weeks into months, it became evident that the fight against Covid-19 was not just a physical battle but an emotional and psychological one as well. But amidst all the suffering and sorrow, there was also resilience. The world came together in ways previously unimaginable. Communities rallied, neighbors supported one another, and even in the face of adversity, hope endured.

As I reflect upon these three tumultuous years, I realize they have been a testament to human spirit and resilience. Amidst all the chaos, they’ve shown that in the face of adversity, the human spirit shines brightest, drawing strength from hope, unity, and the collective desire to overcome and build a better tomorrow.

Legacy and Resolve

In the tapestry of life, certain threads stand out more vividly, forming the patterns of our legacy. For me, my thesis work is one such thread. Every time I’d revisit the documents and notes that never made it into the final draft due to size constraints, a thought persisted: the work was valuable, especially for the upcoming generation of homeopathic students.

Two decades had elapsed, yet no comparable research had surfaced in the public domain. Dr. Boger’s correspondence with Dr. Dhawle always resonated with me, especially the urgency in Boger’s voice as he expressed his wish to complete his work on BBCR “before it’s too late.” It was a potent reminder that time waits for none, and our legacies are defined by the actions we take and the knowledge we pass on.

The unpredictability of life, further emphasized by the Covid pandemic, rekindled my sense of purpose. As I neared the dawn of my seventh decade, the urgency to leave a tangible mark became paramount. Decades of learning, research, and experience had culminated in my thesis. It felt like an untapped reservoir of knowledge, waiting to quench the thirst of eager students and practitioners.

With the dawn of December 2022, I set my intentions firm. Clarity descended, and a resolution was forged: to complete my comprehensive work on homeopathy and ensure its publication in 2023. This would be my gift to the aspiring MD homeopathy students, a torch passed on to illuminate their path in the vast realm of homeopathic knowledge.

Determined and invigorated by this newfound purpose, I embarked on this journey of revisiting, refining, and representing my research. It wasn’t just about sharing information anymore; it was about creating a legacy, a beacon for future generations.

Stepping into the Author’s World

April 2023 marked the dawn of a new chapter in my journey. With the resurgence of a purpose that had lain dormant for years, I embarked on the mammoth task of reworking and expanding my original thesis. Each word was chosen with care, every insight honed with precision. The goal was simple yet profound: to shape this work into a form that would resonate with homeopathic students and practitioners alike.

The gratification of sending that first version to my Guide (Prof. Dr. MP Arya) was profound. To see years of work crystallize into a tangible form was immensely rewarding. When he graciously sent his Foreword in June, it felt as if a significant milestone had been achieved. His support and guidance lent an added layer of authenticity and authority to the work. Encouraged, I continued to refine and expand upon the content, making it as comprehensive and relevant as possible.

Yet, the path of a first-time author is seldom smooth. As weeks turned into months, my search for a suitable publisher proved to be an uphill battle. The realization was slowly dawning that perhaps the publishing world, much like other industries, was hesitant to take risks on unknown entities. My passion project, which I had poured heart and soul into, seemed to be hitting a roadblock.

But adversity, they say, often breeds innovation. If the conventional route was closed, I decided to forge my own path. With determination fueling my steps, I chose to take on the mantle of publisher as well. The decision to self-publish was born out of necessity, but it granted me unparalleled freedom over my work’s presentation. Now, as the book sits ready for the world to embrace, there’s an amalgamation of emotions. Anticipation, excitement, and hope intertwine. The journey, filled with highs and lows, has been worthwhile. I earnestly hope that the homeopathic community, especially the students, find value in this labor of love. It’s more than just a book; it’s a testament to perseverance, passion, and the undying spirit of knowledge sharing.