'I enrolled at Harvard at the age of 60'
How do you take a healing system that inspires little confidence in the public and turn it into the largest chain of homeopathy clinics in the country? Dr Mukesh Batra leads the way
October 03, 2013 / 12:45 IST
It's not easy to give legitimacy to an alternative system of medicine that is typically regarded a little more than faith healing. But Dr Mukesh Batra was up to the challenge. Today, Dr Batra is arguably India's most well-known homeopath. What started as a small clinic in Mumbai back in 1982 has grown into a chain of commercially successful clinics -- 119 across India, Dubai and London -- clocking a turnover of Rs 133 crore in 2012-13.
Dr Batra says he is a 'student for life' and, just two years ago, at the age of 60, he enrolled for a course at Harvard. Apart from his hugely successful business, our Padmashree is also an avid shutterbug, a passionate singer and an author. Excerpts from a candid interview…You enrolled at Harvard two years ago, at the age of 60. You were probably the oldest student there! I was… but I was also the youngest in terms of enthusiasm to learn!What keeps you going?It's my passion to spread homeopathic science -- to heal people and change lives. I am also always eager to learn, because each day brings a new experience. This excites me and keeps me going. Is there something about the job that you could do without?Yes, paperwork. I would love to focus more on actual work rather than sign documents and reports.Where did you study?Campion School, Jai Hind College and Homeopathic Medical College, Mumbai.You started your career as an intern with a charitable clinic. What was the remuneration you drew back then, and what were the things you learnt from the experience?I received a princely stipend of Rs 150 per month. I learnt patience and forbearance, including the art of practical homeopathic prescribing, which is based more on the patient's personality, temperament and unique symptoms rather than on external, common symptoms alone.Who is that someone you look up to? What have you learnt from that person?No, one really. We don't have too many people (these days) that we can look up to. I've learnt from experience and I am still learning, honing and refining my skills.You are an avid photographer and a singer too. Are these your favourite pastimes?Yes, they are. Photography is like 'soulful imagery' for me. I take my camera with me wherever I go and click pictures as and when I spot something -- whether in nature, the countryside, people, places... I sing with my guruji, every evening. Singing is mindful and soulful relaxation for me. I love to watch movies and plays too. I seldom miss a play at the theatre.And movies?I love most of Guru Dutt's movies, most notably Pyaasa. How do you keep abreast of what's happening in your field?I read books, professional medical journals, and research and review papers. I browse the Internet and attend continuing medical education (CME) sessions organised by our company. What's your morning ritual?I work out (weights and treadmill) at the gym for an hour. What are you reading currently?Proof of Heaven by neurosurgeon Dr Eben Alexander. His 'coming back to life' from the abyss brought him closer to the immeasurable dimension of the soul. The book goes beyond scientific reductionism. It explores mind and body, matter and soul, with a quantum percept, something that homeopathy has always espoused. 
Dr Mukesh BatraWhen was the last time you took a vacation?
I've just returned from a vacation in Turkey and Greece. I loved the architectural canvas and beauty of Istanbul and great natural splendour of Santorini and Mykonos. I have clicked a multitude of photographs and will be exhibiting a set of my best photographs during my ninth annual photo exhibition this year.If not a businessman…A healer. A healer always. What do you admire most in people?
Honesty.Where do you see yourself 10 years from now?I will keep working and still have time for the simple pleasures of life, family and grandchildren.Lastly, what is that one thing we don't know about you?I was a student leader, a rebel with a heart for logic, candour and fair play. In other words, I played with a straight bat, which I still do. I am also a public performer and sing at my annual concerts. My fourth concert will be held early next year.As told to Nivedita Jayaram PawarYou can send your feedback on smementor@moneycontrol.com or simply post comments below Discover the latest Business News, Sensex, and Nifty updates. Obtain Personal Finance insights, tax queries, and expert opinions on Moneycontrol or download the Moneycontrol App to stay updated!
