SRJAN: Sanjeevani Life Beyond Cancer’s 4-day Residential Wellness Retreat in Goa (23rd–27th February)

Srjan Retreat

Recover your lost ground and bounce back to life

International Centre of Goa

Dona Paula

Goa

Check In : 23rd Feb 

Check out : 27th Feb

Sanjeevani Life Beyond Cancer’s 4-day Residential Wellness Retreat in Goa (23rd–27th February) is open to everyone who feels the call to pause, heal and reconnect.

This retreat is for:

• Cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers

• Individuals seeking holistic healing and emotional balance

• Professionals experiencing burnout, stress, or compassion fatigue

• Caregivers, healers, therapists, doctors, and social workers

• Anyone on a personal or spiritual wellness journey; and

• Those simply looking to slow down, breathe, and nurture mind, body, and soul

Rooted in integrative oncology, holistic wellness, mindfulness, movement, nutrition, and inner healing, this retreat is not just about illness—it is about wellness, resilience, and conscious living.

You don’t need a diagnosis to attend.You only need the intention to care for yourself.

Schedule

Goa | 23–27 February

Day 1 – Arrival, Sharing & Connection

3:00 – 5:00 PM | Let’s Share Our Stories

We begin our journey together by coming into a safe, compassionate circle where every voice is

heard and honoured. This session invites participants to gently share their personal

journeys—what they have been through, the challenges and pain points experienced during

treatment, moments that felt difficult or overwhelming, and reflections on what could have been different. More importantly, it is a space to express hopes, intentions, and how you envision living your life moving forward. Sharing is completely voluntary, and participants are encouraged

to speak only as much as they feel comfortable. Listening, empathy and mutual respect form the foundation of this session.

5:00 – 7:00 PM | Pool / Beach Activity

As the day gently unfolds, we move into a relaxed and joyful outdoor experience by the pool or beach. This session is designed to help participants unwind, reconnect with their bodies and build bonds through light movement, playful interaction and shared laughter. Surrounded by nature, water, and open skies, this time encourages ease, relaxation, and a sense of togetherness—allowing everyone to settle into the retreat in a calm, uplifting, and nurturing way.

7:30 PM onwards I Dinner

Day 2 – Releasing Pain & Setting Intent

7:00 – 8:00 AM | Yoga & Pranayama

The day begins with a gentle and restorative yoga and pranayama practice designed specifically to support healing bodies and minds. Through mindful movement, conscious breathing and guided awareness, this session helps release stored physical tension and emotional heaviness that often remain unexpressed in the body. The practice encourages participants to reconnect

with themselves with compassion, promoting balance, relaxation, and inner calm.

10:00 AM – 11:30 AM | Setting the Intent

This reflective and interactive session invites participants to pause and gain clarity on their

personal intentions for the workshop. What do you truly wish to take away from this experience? Together, we explore the understanding of your biochemistry and ways to change it, the process of healing at multiple levels and how each individual envisions their journey ahead. Through guided discussions and self-inquiry, participants are supported in identifying meaningful goals,

cultivating awareness and aligning with their inner strength and purpose.

12:00 PM – 01:30 PM | Art Based Therapy

This guided session uses creative expression such as drawing, painting and intuitive

art-making to support emotional healing and self-reflection. Participants are gently encouraged to express thoughts and feelings beyond words, helping release stored emotions and reduce stress. The session fosters mindfulness, self-awareness and inner balance in a safe, non-judgmental retreat environment.

3:00 – 5:00 PM | Releasing Deep-Seated Pain

A deeply held and facilitated session focusing on uncovering and gently addressing emotional

wounds rooted in early life experiences. This space allows participants to acknowledge

childhood memories, unresolved emotions, and long-held pain in a safe and supportive

environment. Through guided processes, participants are encouraged to release emotional burdens that may no longer serve them, fostering emotional lightness and inner healing.

5:00 – 6:00 PM | Sound Healing & Dynamic Meditation (DMT)

This experiential session uses sound, breathwork and conscious movement to help release suppressed emotions and energetic blockages. Rhythmic sound, guided breathing, and dynamic meditation techniques support emotional expression, stress release and a sense of inner freedom. Participants are invited to engage at their own pace, allowing the body and mind

7:30 – 9:00 PM | Dinner

As the day gently winds down, participants come together for dinner set. This shared meal is an invitation to slow down, savor  nourishment, and remain present—honouring both the food and the connections formed throughout the day.

Post Dinner | Reflection Writing

The day concludes with quiet reflection through journaling. Participants are encouraged to write

down insights, emotions, realizations, and moments of awareness experienced during the day. This reflective practice supports emotional integration, clarity, and deeper understanding of

one’s healing journey.

Day 3 – Awareness, Balance & Inner Freedom

7:00 – 8:00 AM | Yoga & Pranayama

The morning begins with a calming yoga and pranayama practice aimed at cultivating inner

balance, emotional steadiness, and mental clarity. Through slow, mindful movements and

regulated breathing, participants are guided toward a state of calm awareness. This session

supports nervous system regulation, enhances energy flow, and nurtures a sense of inner

stability—helping participants feel grounded, centered, and present.

10:00 AM – 11:30 AM | What Is Stopping You?

This deeply introspective session encourages participants to gently explore the internal

patterns, beliefs, fears, and emotional blocks that may be limiting their ability to live fully and

authentically. Using guided visualization, reflective dialogue, and chakra awareness and healing practices, participants gain insight into where energy may be stuck and how it can be released. The session supports self-awareness, empowerment, and a renewed sense of choice and possibility.

12:00 – 01:30 PM | Reiki Healing Session

This session offers a deeply relaxing energy-healing experience that supports physical,

emotional, and mental balance. Through gentle, non-invasive touch or guided energy flow, Reiki

helps release blockages, reduce stress, and promote the body’s natural healing processes.

Participants often experience deep calm, clarity, and a renewed sense of inner harmony in the

nurturing retreat setting.

03:00 – 5:00 PM | Gratitude, Forgiveness & Responsibility

This session focuses on emotional liberation through gratitude, forgiveness, and conscious

responsibility. Participants are guided to acknowledge what has been, release resentment or self-blame and embrace compassion—for themselves and others. By cultivating gratitude and taking ownership of one’s life with kindness and awareness, participants are supported in moving forward with clarity, acceptance, and inner strength.

7 PM onwards | Dinner

The day concludes with a relaxed and joyful exploration of Goa. This leisurely outing offers

participants an opportunity to unwind, connect informally, and enjoy the natural beauty, culture,

and serenity of the surroundings. It serves as a gentle reminder to experience life with lightness, curiosity, and appreciation—integrating healing with joy and freedom.

Post Dinner | Reflection Writing

The day concludes with quiet reflection through journaling. Participants are encouraged to write

down insights, emotions, realizations, and moments of awareness experienced during the day. This reflective practice supports emotional integration, clarity, and deeper understanding of

one’s healing journey.

Day 4 – Building a New Life & Celebration

7:00 – 8:00 AM | Yoga & Pranayama

The final morning begins with an energizing yet mindful yoga and pranayama session focused

on strength, renewal, and integration. This practice supports participants in reconnecting with their inner resilience and vitality, encouraging a renewed relationship with their bodies. The session emphasizes carrying forward healthy routines, self-awareness, and a sustainable way of living beyond the retreat—anchored in balance, confidence, and self-care.

10:00 AM – 11:30 AM | Food Science

This session revisits and reinforces essential food science and nutrition concepts that support healing and long-term well-being. Participants gain clarity on making informed, practical food choices for daily life.

12:00 PM – 01:30 PM | Healing Touch

Experiential healing-touch practices, including reflexology and acupressure, which help

stimulate natural healing responses, improve circulation, and promote deep relaxation. These

practices integrate knowledge with experience, empowering participants to care for themselves holistically.

3:00 – 5:00 PM | Final Reflections

A closing circle dedicated to reflection, sharing, and integration. Participants are invited to

express what they are taking back from this journey—insights gained, emotional shifts

experienced, new perspectives formed, and intentions for the future. This session honors

individual transformations while reinforcing the collective strength and connection built during

the retreat. It is a space of gratitude, acknowledgment, and gentle closure.

7:00 PM Onwards | Goa by Night & Dinner

The retreat concludes with an evening of joy, celebration, and togetherness. Through music,

dance, laughter, and light-hearted “masti,” participants celebrate life, resilience, and the courage it takes to heal and grow. Set against the vibrant energy of Goa by night, this celebration marks not an end, but a new beginning—embracing life with freedom, joy, and renewed spirit.

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Registrations Open: Your Healing Journey in Goa Awaits

(Click on the link below to register)

Registration link

For further query please reach out to: 9681696848

A Divine Pause in Time

Our Soulful Visit to Mangueshi Temple, Goa

Some journeys are planned with precision—routes marked, schedules fixed, and expectations set. And then there are journeys that unfold by grace alone, where timing, place, and inner readiness align in ways that feel divinely orchestrated. 

Our visit to Shri Mangueshi Temple in Goa was one such experience—unexpected, deeply moving, and profoundly spiritual.

Nestled in the serene village of Mardol, away from Goa’s bustling beaches and tourist energy, Mangueshi Temple stands as a timeless reminder that Goa is not just a destination of sun and sand, but also of sacred silence, devotion, and ancient spiritual wisdom. 

What made our visit extraordinary was not just the beauty of the temple or its historical significance, but the sheer fortune of arriving—completely unknowingly—exactly at the time of the afternoon aarti. What followed was an experience that touched something deep within us, leaving us with a sense of calm, gratitude, and quiet awe.

The Journey Inward Begins

As we approached Mangueshi Temple, the atmosphere itself began to shift. There was no rush here, no urgency. Just a gentle invitation to slow down.

The temple complex revealed itself gradually, not dramatically—almost as if it wanted visitors to arrive with humility rather than excitement.

And perhaps that is the first lesson Mangueshi offers: spirituality does not announce itself loudly; it waits patiently to be noticed.

First Glimpse: A Harmony of Grace and Grandeur

The moment we stepped into the temple courtyard, we were struck by its architectural elegance. Shri Mangueshi Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, worshipped here as Manguesh, the Lord of Compassion. 

The temple’s architecture reflects a beautiful confluence of Goan, Maratha, and Deccan styles, resulting in a structure that is both stately and soothing.

Dominating the complex is the iconic seven-storeyed deepastambha (lamp tower), standing tall and dignified in the courtyard. Even in daylight, it carries an unmistakable presence, as though silently reminding devotees of the light that dispels ignorance. One can only imagine its magnificence during festivals and night aartis, when hundreds of oil lamps illuminate it like a pillar of divine fire.

The temple façade, painted in soft white, contrasts gently with the red-tiled sloping roofs—a hallmark of Goan temple architecture designed to withstand the region’s monsoons. Ornate pillars, intricate wooden carvings, and spacious mandapas speak of craftsmanship honed over generations. Yet, despite its grandeur, the temple does not overwhelm. Instead, it embraces.

The Sanctum: Stillness That Speaks

As we moved closer to the garbhagriha (sanctum sanctorum), the energy became palpably more intense. The sanctum houses the Shiva lingam, revered as Manguesh, and the space around it feels charged with centuries of prayers, mantras, and unwavering faith.

There is something deeply grounding about standing before a Shiva lingam. It strips away excess thought, excess emotion, excess identity—leaving behind a quiet awareness of being. In that stillness, words become unnecessary. One simply is.

The Blessed Accident: Arriving at Aarti Time

We did not plan our visit around the aarti. There was no conscious intention to time it perfectly. And yet, just as we settled into the temple’s rhythm, the bells began to ring.

The afternoon aarti had begun.

What followed was nothing short of magical.

The gentle chanting of priests, the rhythmic ringing of bells, the soft glow of lamps, and the collective devotion of those present created an atmosphere that felt suspended in time. The chants reverberated through the temple, not loudly, but deeply—resonating within the heart more than the ears.

There is a unique beauty in afternoon aartis. Unlike the grandeur of evening rituals, the afternoon aarti carries a certain intimacy, a quieter devotion. The sunlight filtering into the mandapa blended seamlessly with the flickering flames, creating a divine interplay of light—external and internal.

In that moment, it felt as though the temple itself was breathing.

We stood there, absorbed, grateful, humbled. It felt like a personal blessing—an unspoken acknowledgment that we were meant to be there, exactly then. No photographs could capture what was felt. No words can fully describe the serenity that descended upon us.

The Sacred Kund and the Twelve Jyotirlingas

One of the most spiritually evocative features of the Mangueshi Temple complex is the sacred water kund—a large, ancient water tank that reflects both the sky above and the devotion below. Water bodies have always held profound spiritual significance in Indian temples, symbolizing purification, continuity, and the cyclical nature of life.

What makes this kund truly special is the presence of representative statues of all the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, located around it.

The twelve Jyotirlingas are considered the most sacred abodes of Shiva, spread across India—from Somnath in Gujarat to Rameshwaram in Tamil Nadu, from Kashi Vishwanath in Varanasi to Kedarnath in the Himalayas. To visit all twelve is considered a lifetime spiritual pilgrimage for many.

Standing by the kund, gazing at these representations, one feels an extraordinary sense of unity. It is as though the vast spiritual geography of India converges here in this tranquil Goan village. In one sacred space, the seeker is reminded that Shiva is not bound by location—He is presence itself.

For those unable to travel the length and breadth of the country, this kund offers a deeply symbolic darshan—a reminder that devotion transcends physical distance.

Architecture That Reflects Philosophy

Mangueshi Temple is not just a place of worship; it is a living expression of philosophy through design.

The spacious courtyards encourage congregation, dialogue, and shared devotion.

The symmetry reflects balance. The open mandapas invite light and air, symbolizing openness and inclusivity. Even the temple’s orientation and layout subtly guide the devotee inward—from the outer world to inner stillness.

The use of local materials, traditional techniques, and climate-sensitive design reflects a profound understanding of harmony—with nature, with community, and with the divine.

Walking Away, Carrying Stillness

As we slowly made our way out of the temple complex, there was a reluctance to leave—not because of attachment, but because of the stillness we wished to carry with us. Some places change you not by what they show, but by what they awaken within you.

Mangueshi Temple did exactly that.

We arrived as visitors, curious and open. We left as quiet recipients of grace, carrying a sense of calm that stayed with us long after the temple disappeared from view.

Gratitude for Unplanned Blessings

Looking back, what stands out most is not just the beauty of the temple, the magnificence of its architecture, or even the sacred symbolism of the Jyotirlingas—but the timing. The unplanned alignment. The gentle reminder that sometimes, the most meaningful spiritual moments happen when we stop trying to control the journey.

Our visit to Mangueshi Temple was not just a stop on a travel itinerary. It was a pause. A breath. A blessing.

And for that, we remain deeply grateful.

From the Four P’s to a Fifth P - Purpose:

How an Ordinary Man Became a Changemaker

For most of my professional life, my world revolved around four familiar letters—the four P’s of business: Product, Price, Place, and Promotion. 

Like millions of professionals across the globe, I lived by balance sheets, marketing strategies, revenue targets, and profit margins. 

Decisions were measured in percentages, growth curves, and quarterly outcomes. Success was something that could be quantified, charted, and celebrated in boardrooms.

I was, by all definitions, an ordinary man doing what he had been trained to do—optimize efficiency, maximize returns, and manage risk.

And yet, life has a way of interrupting even the most carefully constructed spreadsheets.

The Moment Numbers Lost Their Meaning

Cancer does not announce itself with a business plan. 

It arrives uninvited, ruthless and indifferent to status, savings, or strategy. 

When cancer entered our lives, it did something no market crash or business failure ever could—it rendered numbers irrelevant.

Suddenly, the metrics that mattered were 

- not profit margins but pain thresholds, 

- not growth curves but survival rates, 

- not revenue streams but hope. 

The language of business failed me, because there was no vocabulary to measure fear, resilience or the quiet dignity of a patient fighting for one more ordinary day.

That was the moment the four P’s began to feel insufficient.

When Compassion Becomes Strategy

Sanjeevani Life Beyond Cancer was not born out of ambition; it was born out of necessity and empathy. 

What began as a personal response to a deeply human crisis soon revealed a disturbing truth—the cancer ecosystem in India, while clinically advanced, is emotionally and socially fragmented.

Treatment exists, but support often does not.

Hospitals heal bodies, but patients and families struggle to navigate fear, finances, stigma, and loneliness. 

Survivorship, when achieved, is rarely accompanied by rehabilitation, dignity, or reintegration into life.

As a man trained in systems and processes, I began to see cancer care not just as a medical challenge, but as a broken value chain—one where the patient stood at the center, yet remained the least empowered stakeholder.

And so, the businessman in me returned—but this time, in service of humanity.

Reimagining the P’s

The skills I had once used to sell products were now applied to design programs of care.

- Marketing insight became advocacy and awareness.

- Financial planning became resource optimization for the underserved. 

- Operational efficiency turned into scalable patient support systems.

Slowly, the new 5 P's Evolved

- Product became Purpose

- Price became Accessibility

- Place became Reach

- Promotion became Voice for the Voiceless

- And a fifth P emerged—People.

Through Sanjeevani Life Beyond Cancer, we built models that place people—not diseases—at the heart of care. From patient navigation and counseling to skill development for survivors, from caregiver training to psychosocial rehabilitation, the organization grew into an ecosystem that walks with a patient before, during, and long after treatment.

Impact Is Not Accidental

Social impact, I have learned, is not charity—it is intentional design. It requires the same rigor as business, but guided by compassion rather than competition. 

Over the years, Sanjeevani’s work has reached over a million lives across multiple states, embedded in hospitals, communities, and families who would otherwise fall through the cracks of the healthcare system.

The irony is not lost on me: the very disciplines that once defined my corporate life—planning, execution, measurement—became the tools through which meaningful social change was possible.

The Changemaker Is an Ordinary Man Who Chose to Care

Receiving the Changemaker Award 2025 is an honor, but it is not a destination. 

If anything, it is a reminder that changemakers are not extraordinary beings. 

They are ordinary people who allow empathy to disrupt routine, who let lived experience challenge comfortable assumptions and who are willing to redefine success.

I did not abandon the four P’s. I expanded them. I allowed them to be guided by conscience.

If this journey has taught me anything, it is this:

- when profit is aligned with purpose, 

- when systems are built around people, and

- when success is measured in lives touched rather than figures achieved

an ordinary man becomes a catalyst for extraordinary change.

A changemaker. 

A Rejoinder to a statement made by Shri Vikram Singh Mehta, Chairman of Board of Indigo.

Respected Shri Mehta,

Your apology yesterday was heard by millions across the country — passengers stranded for hours, families left helpless in chaotic airport corridors, professionals who missed crucial career opportunities, elderly citizens exhausted beyond endurance, and terrified children who had no idea why they were suddenly trapped in a sea of confusion.

Yes, the apology was heard.

But let me tell you honestly, with all due respect— it was not believed.

Because when #human #suffering reaches such a #massive #scale, when chaos becomes systemic and predictable, when disruption becomes a pattern rather than an exception, the public cannot be expected to accept your assurance that nothing deliberate occurred.

They judge not by corporate statements but by lived experience. And lived experience tells a very different story.

The lived experience tells us that everything felt deliberate.

When passengers watched #pilots operate beyond humane limits…

When they observed #crew members running on exhaustion and fumes…

When #ground #staff themselves were seen pleading for breaks, clarity, and backup…

When #passengers were left without information for hours…

When #families were forced to sit on airport floors with no guidance…

When refunds remained trapped in invisible pipelines…

It all felt #deliberate.

Not because #IndiGo explicitly intended suffering — but because IndiGo consistently prioritized something else over people.

#Profit over #People

And when a corporation consistently prioritizes something over people, the public naturally concludes that the consequences are not accidental. 

They are deliberate. They are systemic. Predictable. And deeply unfair.

Let us call this what it is: the cost of chasing profits over humanity.

Your airline is known for being ruthlessly efficient.

But efficiency without empathy is just a slower word for exploitation.

And the events of the past weeks have forced India to confront a painful question:

At what point does “maximizing operational performance for profits” quietly turn into “minimizing human well-being”?

The public witnessed:

Pilots flying exhausting schedules that stretched their limits

Cabin crew collapsing into seats between flights, visibly fatigued

Ground personnel handling impossible passenger loads

Families stranded at airports without food, water, or clarity

Elderly people forced to endure physical stress they never signed up for

Children crying in terminals while announcements remained silent

Working professionals missing interviews, exams, and commitments that cannot be recreated

Thousands stuck for hours without basic dignity — information

Even if each individual moment was not “deliberately created,” the system that produced them was.

A system that pushes staff to the brink — feels deliberate.

A system that overschedules flights without ensuring operational resilience — feels deliberate.

A system that communicates last and only under pressure — feels deliberate.

A system that maximizes profits but not preparedness — feels deliberate.

Because when a company consistently chooses one value over another, that choice is deliberate — even if no one writes it in a memo.

You said disruptions were not intended. But intention is also measured by prevention.

When preventable suffering is allowed to continue, it becomes indistinguishable from intent.

It is not the apology that hurts — it is the gap between the apology and reality.

Passengers saw elderly people wandering in confusion, waiting for information that never came.

Was that accidental?

Or was it a predictable by-product of overstretched staff and under-communicated decisions?

Passengers saw five-year-olds crying in chaos with no water, no food, no clarity.

Was that an unavoidable tragedy?

Or was it the outcome of inadequate planning for predictable service disruption?

Passengers lost money, lost opportunities, lost dignity.

They missed weddings, funerals, interviews, exams, surgeries.

Refunds took days or weeks.

Was that an unanticipated oversight?

Or a natural extension of a system where cash flow matters more than customer distress?

These are not ideological questions; they are human questions.

And humans judge companies not by #polished #apologies but by how much pain their systems allow.

Your apology lacked one critical ingredient: #responsibility.

Responsibility is not saying “we are sorry.”

Responsibility is saying:

“This should not have happened.”

“This was a failure of our systems.”

“We pushed our people too far.”

“We made choices that prioritized metrics over well-being.”

“We recognize the suffering, and we own it.”

That is responsibility.

That is leadership.

That is what the public was waiting for.

Instead, they heard a version of: “It wasn’t deliberate.”

But for passengers, intention matters far less than impact.

And the impact was devastating.

If passengers felt this pain once, they would forgive. But they have felt it repeatedly.

Not because a single day of poor operations occurred, but because they fear this is not a one-time failure — but a symptom of how your airline has been functioning.

Safety, humane working conditions, and customer care are not footnotes to profitability.

They are the foundation of trust.

And when that trust is broken, no apology — however polished — can rebuild it without honest acknowledgement.

So here is what the people want from you, Mr. Mehta:

1. A commitment to prioritize safety and well-being over operational metrics.

2. Transparent explanation of why systems failed at such a massive scale.

3. Clear corrective actions, with timelines.

4. Assurance that your staff — pilots, crew, and ground teams — will never again be pushed to exhaustion.

5. A passenger-centric model of communication and holistic compensation. 

These are not demands.

These are expectations — the minimum required to rebuild public trust.

If IndiGo wishes to be seen as a responsible national carrier, it must behave like one.

Profit alone cannot be the North Star of an airline entrusted with human lives.

Pilots carry the weight of hundreds of souls every time they fly.

Crew members balance safety, service, and emotional labor in every shift.

Ground staff face anger, fear, and confusion on the frontline.

Passengers place blind faith in your systems and your leadership.

This ecosystem functions only when every life in it is valued.

And during the recent crisis, people did not feel valued — they felt #abandoned.

The country deserves better. Your employees deserve better. Your passengers deserve better.

You asked for understanding.

Millions of Indians ask for accountability.

You asked for empathy.

Millions ask for responsibility.

You asked us to believe it wasn’t deliberate.

Millions ask you to show it wasn’t deliberate — through action.

Apologies are words.

Reforms are proof.

India is waiting for the proof.

Sir, you are one of the best Corporate Leaders I have had the pleasure of interacting with and I am sure that we will experience the Reforms soon. 

A big grateful Thanks to #Govt Of #Bharat for taking note of the sufferings of passengers and initiating steps to rectify the situation. 

Sirs, as I pen this sitting at an Airport - your kind intervention is working. 

Thank you.

People, Food, Laughter & the Power of YES

A Whirlwind Bangalore Sojourn (27–29 November): 

Bangalore in late November has its own personality. 

The air is crisp, carrying whiffs of filter coffee and unexpected traffic jams. Into this energetic chaos, Ruby and I landed on the 27th—ready for three days of conversations, connections, and culinary adventures.

Day 1: Evenings of Intellect, Warmth &  Conversations

Our first evening set the tone. Over dinner, we met some of the brightest minds the city proudly hides behind its cool demeanour—doctors with gentle confidence, company secretaries with razor-sharp clarity, and wellness experts who made you question your life choices after every bite of dessert.

I

The restaurant buzzed with the low hum of conversations, cutlery softly clinking like background music. Ideas flowed across the table with the ease of old friendships. Humour, of course, made its guest appearance every now and then—sometimes subtle, sometimes loud, and sometimes unintentional. By the end of the evening, stomachs and hearts were equally full.

Day 2: Friends, Full Toit & Food That Demands a Second Visit

The next evening took us to Full Toit, a name that itself promises everything from beer to banter. It delivered on both. 

Full Toit was its usual lively self—warm lights, the aroma of wood-fired food, waiters weaving through crowded aisles like seasoned dancers, and the occasional burst of laughter from the next table. Our own table was no less. Conversations ranged from the Railways to world affairs to food philosophy. Ruby added her spark, as she always does; Michael added quiet wisdom; and the rest of us happily picked our sides between seriousness and silliness.

By the time dessert arrived, it was clear—we were no longer a dinner group but a circle of familiar friends.

Day 3 Morning: The Rameshwaram Café Adventure

We began our final day with a mission: conquer the legendary crowd at Rameshwaram Cafe.

The moment we arrived, we were greeted by a sea of hungry humans. The aroma of dosas sizzling on giant tawas, fresh chutney being poured into steel cups, and the unmistakable fragrance of filter coffee—all of it mingled with the sound of calling tokens and impatient munching.

Enter Mr Raju—our guardian angel in this gastronomic battlefield. With a warm smile and the air of someone who has mastered crowd management as an art form, he ensured we were comfortable. Somehow, amidst all that chaos, we felt cared for.

The food? Crisp dosas that cracked like thin ice, soft idlis like edible clouds, and vadas that made you forget every diet resolution. Breakfast wasn’t just a meal—it was an emotion.

IRAS Day: A Celebration of Service, Legacy, Spirit & the Power of YES

Post-breakfast, we drove to the IRAS Day celebrations at South Western Railways. The event was beautifully curated—elegant décor, dignitaries from across the railway fraternity, and an atmosphere of respect for the legacy of IRAS officers.

Ruby had been invited to speak and as always, she walked up to the stage with a quiet grace that precedes her fire.

Her talk on “The Power of YES” was the showstopper.

She spoke of how saying YES had shaped her journey—from a young civil servant to a cancer warrior, from a survivor to the founder of Sanjeevani Life Beyond Cancer. With humour, vulnerability, and a pinch of self-mocking honesty, she shared how YES had opened doors she never knew existed:

YES to work others avoided

YES to challenges that seemed impossible

YES to life even when it tested her courage

YES to creating a movement of love and care for cancer patients

Her words resonated deeply. Officers nodded, smiled, and even laughed in unexpected moments—her stories had the rare quality of being both profound and disarmingly funny.

By the time she concluded, the hall was filled with the unmistakable silence that only a deeply touched audience creates. Afterwards, many came forward to share how her message inspired them—some emotionally, some thoughtfully, and some with the wide-eyed enthusiasm of rediscovering something simple yet powerful.

Homeward Thoughts

As our trip wound down, we realised this wasn’t just a quick visit to Bangalore. It was a tapestry woven with heartfelt conversations, new friendships, nostalgic laughter, inspiring moments, and food that nourished more than the stomach.

Each day gave us something different—intellect, camaraderie, joy, warmth, reflection.

And through it all, the spirit of YES followed us like an invisible companion.

Because in the end, life expands for those who say YES—to people, to possibilities, and to experiences that make ordinary days unforgettable.

Sands, Skylines & Soulful Stories: Our Travel Diary Across the UAE & Morocco

Some journeys stay with you long after the bags are unpacked.

Our recent adventure—sailing through the futuristic brilliance of Dubai and Abu Dhabi, and then wandering through the mystical soul of Morocco—was one such unforgettable ride.

It was a trip where work blended gracefully with wanderlust, where every city gifted us new stories and where Ruby and I found ourselves laughing, learning, connecting and soaking in life one magical moment at a time.

Dubai & Abu Dhabi: Where the Future Touches the Sky

Our adventure began in the ever-shining #UAE—#Dubai with its dazzle, #Abu Dhabi with its serene grandeur.

Between our engagements and soulful conversations at the Inner Peace • Outer Health events, we caught glimpses of what makes the UAE so special : the melting pot of cultures, the warmth behind the glitter, and the genuine curiosity people showed in Sanjeevani’s integrative care model.

Every interaction carried a common sentiment:

“Sanjeevani should come to the UAE—people here need this.”

With that reassurance warming our hearts, we boarded the flight to Morocco.

Morocco: A Living Painting Unfolding Before Our Eyes

#Morocco doesn’t simply exist—it performs.

Vivid, warm, layered, and welcoming, it opened its arms to us from the very first moment.

#Marrakesh: Colour, Chaos & Unexpected Friendships

Marrakesh greeted us like an explosion of colour—lantern-lit souks, sensory whirlwinds of spices, and streets that feel like they’re humming with life.

Even as we balanced our work commitments, we surrendered to the city’s rhythm.

One of the most memorable days was our visit to the #Ourika Valley.

Imagine this : a gentle stream flowing over cool stones, a wooden table set right beside the water, our feet dipped in the river as fresh tagine arrived, steam curling into the mountain air.

It was picturesque, soothing, and wonderfully real.

We laughed, we relaxed and we even made new friends—connections that felt effortless in the purity of that setting.

#Agafay Desert: Gold, Silence & Pure Adrenaline

The Agafay Desert, just outside Marrakesh, took us by surprise.

Far from the typical sandy dunes, its rocky golden landscape felt raw, vast, and beautifully untouched.

Our time there was a blend of thrill and serenity:

- Quad biking across the rugged expanse

- A gentle, swaying camel ride into the sunset

- And finally, a desert dinner under a sky splashed with stars

Traditional music, warm lanterns, and the crisp desert air made it a night stitched together with wonder.

#Rabat: Tranquility, Purpose & A Global Conversation on Cancer Care

Then came Rabat, a city that feels like a long exhale.

Clean boulevards kissed by ocean breeze, quiet neighbourhoods and a calm dignity define it.

But what made Rabat truly special for us was something far deeper.

We were invited to an International Oncology Conference, where oncologists, researchers, policymakers and supportive care experts from across continents came together.

The conversations were powerful, compassionate and forward-looking.

What moved us most was the shared understanding that cancer care must go beyond treatment. The global medical community echoed what Sanjeevani lives every day:

That emotional healing, rehabilitation, and integrative support are not luxury—

they are essential to a patient’s survival and wellbeing.

To hear this affirmed by global experts was inspiring and validating.

We made A short visit to the Clinique d'Oncologie 16 Novembre in Rabat, an inspiring model of comprehensive supportive cancer care. The clinic beautifully integrates medical excellence with emotional, nutritional, and rehabilitative support, reflecting a truly patient-centric approach. It stood out as an epitome of compassionate, holistic oncology care in every sense.

Rabat became the perfect meeting point—serene in its surroundings, profound in its purpose.

Between sessions, we soaked in the city’s gentle charm, sipping mint tea, enjoying sea breeze and allowing gratitude to settle in our hearts.

A Special Evening at India House

Another heartwarming highlight of our journey was the gracious hospitality extended to us at India House in Morocco. We were deeply touched that His Excellency, the Ambassador of India to Morocco, Shri Sanjay Rana and his gracious wife, Barbara, took time out of their busy schedules to host us with such warmth and affection.

The evening felt like a slice of home away from home — filled with comforting conversations and yummy, homemade Indian savouries lovingly prepared and served by Barbara herself. Their kindness and effortless generosity added a beautiful personal touch to our travels, leaving us with memories we will cherish for a long time.

#Tangier: Where Seas Meet & Cultures Blend

Bright, breezy, and perched at the meeting point of the Mediterranean and the Atlantic, Tangier felt like a poet’s city.

Here, the air itself seems to carry stories—from Spanish cafés and Moroccan medinas to waterfront strolls where Europe feels just an arm’s distance away.

We enjoyed the city’s cosmopolitan charm, its easy vibe, and the beautiful sense of movement that Tangier naturally exudes.

#Fez: Immersing Into Timeless Culture (No Work, Only Wonder)

From Tangier we took the train into the rich tapestry of Fez—ancient, intricate, deeply cultural.

This was the one city where we did no work at all.

And perhaps that’s what made it such a soulful pause.

We wandered through the world’s oldest medina, losing ourselves in alleys packed with history.

Craftsmen chiselled, hammered, wove, dyed—carrying centuries of tradition in their hands.

The food was a revelation, the architecture mesmerizing, and the energy pure and unfiltered.

Fez wasn’t a visit—it was an immersion.

#Casablanca: An Elegant Farewell

Our final stop was Casablanca, modern and stylish yet effortlessly grounded.

The breathtaking Hassan II Mosque left us in awe. Set dramatically against the Atlantic, its towering minaret, intricate mosaics, and serene interior made it one of the most spectacular structures we’ve ever seen.

And then came Rick’s Café—soft jazz, warm lights, the charm of a bygone era recreated with love. It was the perfect place to sit back, smile, and let the journey sink in. A perfect setting for the last meal before we boarded our flight for back home. 

We returned home with:

- Memories soaked in colour, warmth, and laughter

- New friendships and heartfelt conversations

- Deeper conviction in the power of integrative cancer care

- Cultural moments that left lasting impressions

- And a renewed sense of purpose

Travel reminds us of the world’s beauty—but also of the goodness in people.

This journey gave us both in abundance.

Grateful Thanks

A heartfelt thank-you to Eduscan Institute, and especially Dr. Alka Kalra and Shri Naveen Kalra and thier team for so thoughtfully organising the Inner Peace • Outer Health events in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Their warmth, meticulous planning and wholehearted support made the sessions truly meaningful and deeply impactful for all present. 

Our sincere gratitude to Dr. Mounir Bachouchi and Dr. Fatma Bin Abid for organising the wonderful CO Days Conference in Rabat and for inviting Sanjeevani Life Beyond Cancer to be a part of it. Their vision, warmth, and impeccable eye to detail made the experience truly enriching and memorable.

Once a Cancer patient—now a proud CanSaarthi, a grateful CanSahyogi, and above all, a believer in the power of healing, hope, and human connection.

From a Cancer Warrior to a CanSahyogi — My Journey of Purpose and Healing

My name is Meena Sharma, and just a few years ago, I was lying on a hospital bed, staring blankly at the ceiling, wondering if my life would ever be normal again. I had just been diagnosed with breast cancer. The word cancer hit me like a thunderbolt. I felt my world collapsing. My family was shattered, my mind was numb, and my body—weak and trembling—had already begun to give up.

Those early days were the darkest phase of my life. The fear of death, the uncertainty of tomorrow, and the physical pain from chemotherapy broke me from within. I used to sit silently in hospital corridors, watching other patients, each one lost in their own battle. I often asked myself—Why me? What had I done to deserve this?

It was during one of those hospital visits that I first met the smiling faces of the Sanjeevani Life Beyond Cancer team. They were cheerful, warm, and full of compassion—something that seemed missing in the sterile hospital environment. One of them sat beside me and spoke to me softly, not as a patient but as a person. She told me she too had once been in my place, fighting cancer. She was now a CanSahyogi—a trained support resource helping other patients walk through their cancer journey with courage and hope.

That conversation changed something deep inside me. For the first time, I saw a glimpse of life beyond cancer. I saw the possibility of healing not just the body but also the mind and spirit.

Months later, after completing my treatment, I was invited by Sanjeevani to attend their CanSaarthi Course—a specialized training program designed for cancer survivors, caregivers, and compassionate individuals who wished to work in the field of integrative cancer care. I wasn’t sure if I was ready. My confidence was shattered. I was still dealing with the side effects of treatment, both physically and emotionally. But something inside me whispered—maybe this is your second chance.

And so, with trembling hands and a nervous heart, I joined the CanSaarthi course.

The first day of the training was a revelation. I walked into a room filled with people like me—warriors who had fought and survived. There were caregivers who had selflessly supported their loved ones, and people who had simply felt called to make a difference. The trainers from Sanjeevani welcomed us not as students but as family.

The course was unlike anything I had ever experienced. We weren’t just taught about cancer as a disease—we learned about healing as a process. We were taught how to understand patients’ emotional states, how to communicate with empathy, and how to handhold them through treatment. We learned about nutrition, yoga, emotional well-being, and the importance of integrative care that looks at the person beyond the illness.

Each module of the CanSaarthi program opened new dimensions for me. I began to understand my own journey more deeply. I learned how emotional distress can affect recovery, and how a kind word or a reassuring hand can bring hope to someone on the verge of giving up.

The sessions on mind–body wellness were particularly powerful. Through guided meditation and self-reflection exercises, I began to rebuild my self-esteem. I learned to forgive my own body and to thank it for surviving. I learned that healing begins when we accept our scars as symbols of strength.

As the weeks passed, I found myself growing stronger—not just in knowledge but in spirit. The course helped me transform my pain into purpose. The thought that I could use my experience to help others filled me with renewed energy. I was no longer just a cancer survivor; I was becoming a CanSaarthi—a torchbearer of hope and healing.

After successfully completing the course, Sanjeevani offered me the opportunity to work as a CanSahyogi in the same hospital where I had once been a patient. When I walked into that hospital as part of the Sanjeevani team for the first time, tears filled my eyes. The same corridors that once echoed with my fear now resonated with my strength.

My role as a CanSahyogi is to connect with patients—especially those who are newly diagnosed—and guide them through their journey. Every morning, I walk into the oncology ward, greet the patients with a smile, and sit beside them, listening to their worries. Sometimes, I share my own story to give them courage. Other times, I just hold their hand in silence. I explain to them the importance of nutrition, exercise, and maintaining a positive mindset. I connect them with Sanjeevani’s wellness programs like CanAhaar, Aham Sanjeevani, and Satori.

Over time, patients begin to trust me. They open up about their fears, their family pressures, their pain. And every time I am able to make someone smile through tears, I silently thank Sanjeevani for giving me this purpose.

Today, when I look at my life, I realize how far I’ve come—from being a frightened patient to becoming a beacon of strength for others. My work as a CanSahyogi has not only given me emotional healing but also financial independence. The honorarium I receive allows me to contribute to my household again, restoring a sense of dignity that cancer had momentarily taken away.

More than anything else, I feel proud that I am part of a movement—a revolution in compassionate cancer care that Sanjeevani Life Beyond Cancer is leading. Every day, I witness miracles of courage. I see patients who begin their journey with fear and end it with faith. I see families who rediscover hope. I see lives being transformed—not just through medicine, but through empathy and human connection.

The CanSaarthi course did not just teach me to help others—it healed me from within. It helped me find meaning in my suffering and joy in service. It made me realize that healing is not a destination but a journey we can walk together.

When patients ask me how I stay so positive, I smile and tell them—because I am living proof that there is life beyond cancer.

Sometimes, after a long day, when I sit quietly reflecting on the many faces I’ve met, I feel an immense sense of gratitude. Gratitude towards life, towards Sanjeevani, and towards every patient who allows me to be part of their healing journey. They remind me, every single day, that strength lies not in avoiding pain but in transforming it into purpose.

If someone had told me years ago that cancer would one day give my life a deeper meaning, I would have laughed in disbelief. But today, I understand. Cancer broke me open so that I could rebuild myself stronger, wiser, and more compassionate.

I am Meena Sharma—a proud CanSaarthi, a grateful CanSahyogi, and above all, a believer in the power of healing, hope, and human connection.

(As narrated to me by one our students. Name changed. Pic withheld)