Dr Heena KAKWANI responds to ThinkWellness360 questionnaire.
Why and how did you think of becoming a doctor?
I always had, from my formative years, a strong desire to help people overcome their health challenges. This stays rock-solid in my psyche — more so, today. To cut a long story short, it was a heart-breaking personal experience that fuelled, also propelled, my determination to pursuing medicine — a close family member’s tragic death, owing to a skewed misdiagnosis, what with the underlying cause being deplorably bungled with, no less. This poignant event was, perhaps, the touchstone, also my life’s mission, to becoming a doctor.
What made you think of, study and specialise in the system of medicine you now practice?
Ayurveda chose me — rather than the other way round. I’ve witnessed, over the years, the remarkable healing power of Ayurveda, especially when other approaches have fallen glaringly short. I don’t look at Ayurveda as a mere profession; it’s my inner calling. This credo pushes me to research tirelessly, seeking the true cause of ailments — just as pristine Ayurveda teaches. The pressure of it all, I reckon, isn’t a burden; it’s a privilege. When my patients smile, after being restored to good health, it brings me immense joy and also fulfilment.
What has been your personal and professional experience as a doctor?
I love my responsibility as a doctor and also the social recognition that my profession has endowed me with. What sets me apart is not just my individuality alone, but also the uniqueness of Ayurveda per se. I am fascinated by the Ayurveda mode of holistic healing, where the patient and their ailments are treated as one whole, not in isolation. What also drives me is my firm commitment and dedication — one that is keyed to my patients’ achieving complete wellness.
What unique and special skills you think you have that has made the big difference for your patients?
My attitude and the responsibility I bring to my medical practice, along with my patient-friendly approach, which I believe, instils in them a sense of hope and assurance in their journey to recovery. This commitment stems from my unwavering practice of classical, authentic Ayurveda.
What is your best definition of optimal wellness and why?
Optimal wellness relates to physical, emotional and mental balance — feeling great, being full of energy, and having a positive outlook to life. This is what that makes life cumulatively enjoyable, while preventing sickness, besides letting you to handle stress better. More than anything else, this wholesome perspective also helps you to live longer and getting more out of life while you’re here. Put simply, optimal health and wellness connotes feeling awesome, staying healthy, and living a long, happy, vibrant life.
Your ‘best’ case?
There are more than just a handful of them — I’d not like to categorise them, from, say, one to ten, because each is unique in its own way.
Your ‘not-so-good’ case?
My mother-in-law. I failed to treat her urinary tract infection [UTI], which is typically not difficult to address, but what caught me on my wrong foot was the plethora of complications that slowly ensued.
What appeals to you the most?
Exploring new medicines, or treating a new case that I’ve never dealt with before. Well, the most appealing thing for me is when my patients get treated successfully and bless me — with all their mind and heart.
What annoys you the most?
My profession demands patience. Also, treating patients is my passion, so there is nothing that annoys me, so to speak.
Your favourite book?
Ras Tantra Saar.
Your favourite joke?
Nothing in particular.
Your favourite song?
I have a multitude of favourite songs, because I’m passionate about singing. However, at this moment, Ek Kacha Ghada [2022/Rahgir] stands out as my top choice.
Your favourite movie?
MS Dhoni: The Untold Story [2016]/Late Sushant Singh Rajput/Kiara Advani/Anupam Kher/Disha Patani/Bhumika Chawla/Neeraj Pandey/Amaal Mallik et al].
Your favourite TV, Netflix show?
I find it a huge task to taking some time out, from my tight schedule, to watching TV, or Netflix shows.
Your other interests, or hobbies?
I love being close to nature and all its vintage grandeur — this brings me immense inner peace. I’m passionate about dancing and singing too — they fill my heart with effusive joy.
Your goal in life?
My goal is to elevate Ayurveda and the recognition and respect it truly deserves and explore its intricate secrets, while unlocking its full potential and using its ancient wisdom to healing people.
