How long have you been working at BHS? And what is your role?

I grew up, educated and trained in New Delhi India. Worked in Malaysia for about 10 years from 1990-2000. Then moved to Ballarat, joined anaesthetic department and been here for more than 20 years now. Currently, I’m deputy director in the department. 

What does diversity mean to you?

Diversity is an acknowledgement of variation in composition of teams, organisations and societies. It is a relational concept, based on a collective whole. Inclusion takes this a step forward, beyond acknowledgement alone.

 It is said that diversity is an invitation to a party, whereas inclusion is being to dance with others- inclusion is about value of the diverse individuals.

In my view, a diverse workplace is created by a team where differences exist, and inclusion takes it to the next level where each member of that diverse team feels valued.

What would you like other people to know about your heritage?

India is a diverse country, a fact that is visibly prominent in its people, culture and climate. From the eternal snows of the Himalayas to the cultivated peninsula of far South, from the deserts of the West to the humid deltas of the East, from the dry heat and cold of the Central Plateau to the cool forest foothills, Indian lifestyles clearly glorify the geography.

The Indian culture varies like its vast geography. People speak in different languages, dress differently, follow different religions, eat different food but are of the same temperament. So whether it is a joyous occasion or a moment of grief, people participate whole-heartedly, feeling the happiness or pain. A festival or a celebration is never constrained to a family or a home. The whole community or neighbourhood is involved in bringing liveliness to an occasion. An Indian wedding is a celebration of union, not only of the bride and groom, but also of two families, maybe cultures or religion too! 

With increasing complexities in one's lives these days, people are perpetually looking for a medium through which they get some peace of mind. Meditation and Yoga are synonymous with India and Indian spirituality. Meditation is one of the most important components of Yoga, which is a mind-body therapy involving a series of exercises. Many people from India and abroad are resorting to yoga and meditation to de-stress and rejuvenate their mind.

Needless to say that I belong to a culture that’s thousands of years old. A civilisation that has given many gifts to the world. 

A belief that’s quintessential Indian philosophy and very relevant in current times is “sarve bhavantu sukhina; sarve santu niramaya” which means may everyone live peacefully and be healthy. India is living this philosophy and has been sending millions of vaccination doses to several countries around the world.

This year’s theme is ‘everyone belongs’, what does that mean to you?

“Our values and culture see divinity in every being and strive for the welfare of all." Namaste 🙏🏽 (Indian greeting) literally translates to that. 

"3000 years ago, a great poet of India, Kaniyan Pungundranar wrote in Tamil the most ancient language of the world "Yaadhum Oore Yaavarum Kelirwhich means 'We belong to all places, and to everyone'. This sense of belonging beyond borders, is unique to India."

Glad to see that this is the theme of Harmony fest this year. 

Is there anything else you’d like to include?

Only that I’m proud of my heritage and my roots but equally proud of my adopted home.