Reflections on My Journey to Kolkata: Discovering Humility, Intellectualism, and Simplicity
On August 31st, 2023, I embarked on a train journey from Ranchi to Kolkata, a brief two-day excursion that rekindled memories of my student days. The bustling crowds at Ranchi railway station and the subsequent arrival at Howrah station felt like the meeting of a river and the sea, evoking a sense of nostalgia.
During my stay, I had the privilege of meeting remarkable individuals and exploring various facets of Kolkata, a city celebrated worldwide for its intellectuals, artists, social reformers, spiritual luminaries, and visionary leaders. However, I couldnot help but notice a sense of stagnation lurking beneath its illustrious past.
While I would not delve deeply into the currentstateofaffairs, I would like to share the profound insights I gained from this experience. Every journey offers opportunities for introspection and learning, and I would like to recount two encounters that left a lasting impression on me.
First, I had the honor of meeting Mr. P M Prasad, Chairman cum Managing Director (CMD) of Coal India Ltd (CIL). Not only is he a prominent figure in the corporate world, heading one of India’s Maharatna companies, but his grace and humility set him apart. With over 30 years of professional experience in both government and private sectors, I have interacted with over 500 top-level executives, yet none matched the personal qualities of Mr. Prasad. My admiration for him stems from his exceptional humility and emotional resilience. His journey from good to great underscores the significance of personal growth and completeness in one’s life. Such qualities are rare in our times, and I consider myself fortunate to have met a personality willing to share his wisdom as a guide and mentor. To receive such wisdom, one need only adopt the mindset of a perpetual student.
Secondly, I had the pleasure of conversing with Sabyasachi Siddhanta, a scientist at CERN Geneva hailing from Kolkata. As a Particle Physicist collaborating with a global team at CERN to unravel the mysteries of life’s origins through the study of fundamental particles, he offered fascinating insights into the scientific community’s ethos. Over 1,000 scientists from diverse backgrounds work tirelessly at CERN to explore the universe’s infinite possibilities. They celebrate each scientific breakthrough as a testament to humanity’s collective progress. Sabyasachi reminded me that we are privileged inhabitants of this planet, tasked with leaving a legacy for future generations.
Beyond his scientific prowess, what struck me most was Sabyasachi’s lifestyle and approach to life. Despite living in Italy and working at CERN since 2006, he has chosen to forgo a smartphone—a choice I found uniquely refreshing in today’s hyper-connected world. When I inquired about his daily routine, he gracefully explained that he manages all his activities with a laptop, credit/travel card, and a basic phone. His simplicity and deliberate minimalism stood as stark contrasts to the complexity many of us burden ourselves with as common individuals.
Conclusion
In conclusion, my journey to Kolkata served as a powerful reminder of the virtues of simplicity, humility, and the perpetual pursuit of knowledge. To encapsulate these lessons: Be simple, Behumble, Be graceful, Be a student, Be a beginner, Be a learner …embrace these principles, and your journey through life will undoubtedly be enriched.
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