Dr T VIDYAVATI responds to ThinkWellness360 questionnaire.
Why and how did you think of becoming a doctor?
It was a poignant, heart-breaking moment. I lost my father when I was in 10th Standard, possibly due to doctors’ negligence. This was the latent ‘spark’ in grief that propelled me to helping patients, just like my father — a doctor — did, all through his life.
What made you think of, study and specialise in the system of medicine you now practice?
I’ve always had a penchant for natural medicine. I specialised in Ayurveda for its natural, also holistic, or ‘bespoke’ quintessence — a dream come true.
What has been your personal and professional experience as a doctor?
It’s been fulfilling, from a personal point-of-view, albeit you are bound to a hectic time schedule. Agreed, ours is a service-oriented field, so there is just no room for complaints. Well, the big downside is one has to stop for self-healing and also recharging one’s batteries for a higher purpose, so to speak. Professionally, it’s mixed emotions. You’re happy when you ‘turnaround’ a difficult case; but, not when a patient doesn’t improve, notwithstanding your best efforts.
What unique and special skills you think you have that has made the big difference for your patients?
Maybe, convincing my patients to following certain rules, or norms, during and after treatment. This is quite challenging, at times; but, I never give up.
What is your best definition of optimal wellness and why?
Being healthy from the inside out is optimum wellness.
Your ‘best’ case?
A case of a long-standing, inveterate psoriasis [Kitibha Kusta].
Your ‘not-so-good’ case?
A case of vitiligo [switra].
What appeals to you the most?
When patients remember and follow my strict treatment plan.
What annoys you the most?
When my patients literally prod me, “Doc, your medicines are not palatable; could you kindly give us a remedy that is palatable, or tastes good?”
Your favourite book?
Ashtanga Hridaya
Your favourite song?
All Dr Rajkumar [Kannada] film and devotional songs. Nowadays, I’m hooked to Sanjit Hegde’s numbers too.
Your favourite movie?
Milana and Google [Kannada].
Your favourite TV, Netflix show?
Nothing specific.
Your other interests, or hobbies?
Watching Bharatanatyam recitals; reading books; travelling.
Your goal in life?
To serve my patients, especially the needy, and upgrading my skills at every step of the way… to the next level… and, the next — because knowledge and learning are never-ending pursuits.
