Aruna Ravikumar

Restore Heritage, Reinforce Safety

Tank Bund — the stretch by the beautiful Hussainsagar Lake between the twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad — has always been a stretch of memories, of brisk walks coupled with the exchange of views with fellow walkers, of a city breathing by the lake.

I still remember walking from the Secunderabad side to where Hyderabad begins, along with my grandfather, holding on to the leash of our little Dachshund Prince, who fearlessly darted at the bigger dogs on the way. Those were simple, beautiful moments.

On the way, we passed by the small but elegant red-bricked police station, always alive with activity. We’d often pause and watch the change of duties as the morning-shift policeman took over from the one on night duty. It gave us a sense of reassurance, order and safety.

Recently, I took a friend from abroad to see Tank Bund. While the lake, the wrought-iron lamps and benches still hold their own charm, one sight was deeply disappointing. The old police station now stands abandoned, dilapidated, almost forgotten. It feels out of place on an iconic stretch.

Why let this fade away?
Reviving the police station could serve a dual purpose — restore a heritage structure and reinforce security in a busy public space.
Some places aren’t just structures. They are part of our shared memory.
Let’s preserve them, not lose them.

Building Confidence: Empowering the Next Generation of Women in Health Care

I had the opportunity to speak with pharmacy students this week about confidence, decision-making, and communication.

It was inspiring to see young women preparing to enter healthcare reflect not only on what they know, but also on how they communicate, make decisions, and lead.

Confidence grows not just from learning, but from asking questions, sharing ideas, and speaking up.

Interestingly, while the session was in progress, I received LinkedIn requests from several students—even as many remained quiet in the classroom. It was a reminder that today’s students are more digitally connected, yet often less vocal in person. I hope to see more of them engage directly and confidently in future discussions.

Grateful for the chance to connect with the next generation of healthcare professionals.

Knowledge + Confidence = Future Leaders Who Make a Difference

StudentEngagement
WomenInHealthcare
CommunicationSkills
PharmacyStudents
LearningCulture
LeadershipDevelopment
HealthcareEducation

Some voices remain timeless. Sri M. V. Soundararajan’s was one such voice.
​I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Sri M. V. Soundararajan, Chief Priest and Hereditary Trustee of the Chilkur Balaji Temple—revered worldwide as the "Visa Temple."
​Holding an M.Com, an LLB, and a Doctorate in Commerce, and having been long associated with Osmania University, he seamlessly combined scholarship with spirituality. A rare blend of academic excellence and unwavering faith, he remained a principled voice for temple autonomy and Dharmic governance.

​He introduced path-breaking reforms at Chilkur:
​No hundi system
​No VIP darshan
​A single queue for all devotees
​No tickets or paid Arjitha Sevas

​His conviction that all devotees are equal before the Lord made Chilkur a powerful symbol of spiritual democracy.
​I had the privilege of interviewing him nearly two decades ago—in what was perhaps one of his most extensive recorded conversations. Today, as we remember his life and contributions, I am sharing this interview as a humble tribute to his legacy and vision.
​May his soul attain eternal peace. His ideals will continue to inspire generations.

YouTube link: https://youtu.be/MK_0gR7M1cI?si=flkmZ31tjr1ypm2S
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Remembering Gadepalli Jagannadham
Freedom fighter, philanthropist, patron of the arts.
A proud participant in the Salt Satyagraha and other protests during India’s freedom movement, he was ever filled with patriotic fervour.
The son of a Vedic scholar at the Kukkuteshwara Swamy Temple in Pithapuram, a well-known Shaktipeetham, he broke norms by marrying a child widow and was known for being a reformist with a golden heart.
Losing his father at a young age, he rose through resilience and grit to become one of the wealthiest people in the city and also served as Deputy Mayor.
A generous host to several eminent musicians of his time and a quiet force for change, he supported 400 families during his lifetime.
To us, he was a loving grandfather and fearless role model.
His legacy lives on.
Fondly remembered on his birthday.
More about him in my book 'There I Was'.

The climb may be steep, but the summit awaits you!