As reflected in my introduction to this episode of an interview with the CEO of a mental health care startup, I recently experienced the loss of a family friend by suicide. He is the Vice-Chancellor of Jadavpur University in Kolkata, India, and is well-liked by students and colleagues. He also happens to be my neighbor.If ever there was a person whose character exuded warmth – the brightest of smiles bursting with mischief that even his big beard couldn’t hide, and big twinkling eyes – it was samantakdas.
I am reminded of two lines from a Bengali poem by Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore that my mother found reason to share with me over the years (this is my translation botched attempt):
Bahirite jar hashir chhota/ those who have external joy and cheer
Bheetore thake chokher jol/Hide the tormented soul
I felt the same way when Robin Williams took his own life.
I hope Kevin Didner, CEO column, and others who tried to bring hope to those who had lost their lives completely, and they were successful. Because, inaction on this matter will only exacerbate the tragedy. For those feeling helpless, please call 988 to get the support you need. You are not alone.
