Sunderlal Bahuguna, an ardent advocate for nature conservation in India, was born on January 9, 1927, in Maroda, Uttarakhand. His experiences form a remarkable story with the Himalayan mountains featuring in it- the fight for survival, the bravery, and the faith in modern social movements. Bahuguna’s transition from being an independence fighter in India to a Gandhian environmental fighter was marked by several key events, most notably the Chipko movement and the anti-Tehri Dam battles.

The beginning of the Chipko movement during the early 1970s was a turning point in Bahuguna’s life. The term Chipko, which translates from Hindi to ‘to clin,g’, came into existence after many villagers decided to hug trees to prevent contractors from cutting them down. The movement was multi-faced and non-violence, as it was not merely directed toward tree protection but also acted as a means to save many different cultural life elements formed around the forests. This is what Bahuguna believed as he and his wife, Vimla, became one of the first campaigners for this and coined the motto “Ecology is Permanent Economy”. He was right in his assumption that, rather than being regarded as an asset to be capitalised, the environment provides the base for the survival of the people who live in the Himalayas.

In the early 1980s, Bahuguna set out on a ponderous 5,000-kilometre sojourn through the Himalayan range, blessed with foot trails whereby he moved from village to village, gnashing of environmental conservation on his route. This sweeping journey became the backbone of the movement and witnessed the movement hogging in the national limelight. The Chipko movement achieved a landmark victory in 1980 when a 15-year ban on the cutting of green trees in the region was declared after a meeting with Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.

However, his activism did not just end there. He waged a ceaseless fight on the anti-Tehri Dam movement in the 1980s. The Tehri Dam, a gigantic hydroelectric project on the Bhagirathi River, posed serious ecological and social threats to the region, throwing thousands out of their homes and threatening the delicate Himalayan ecosystem. Bahuguna, who had witnessed the catastrophic consequences of such large-scale projects, converged the protests around the theme of Satyagraha, Mahatma Gandhi’s non-violent struggle. His hunger strikes, with the longest lasting 74 days, became an epitome of his conviction towards ecological justice.

Though Bahuguna held firm to his protests, with minor undertakings from political leaders promising that the dam’s ecological impact would be looked into, the Tehri Dam project continued, and construction overtook in 2001. Yet the legacy of Bahuguna’s struggle is indelible in the environmental movement in India, leading masses to think beyond the more significant consequences of such mega-projects.

Bahuguna fed, entertained, and led other movements alongside his direct eco-activism. Drawing mainly from the Chipko model, the Appiko movement of Karnataka was inaugurated by Pandurang Hegde in 1983. The Western Ghats conservation activities initiated by Bahuguna also led to some critical regional policy changes, such as the ban on green felling in 1989. His vision for environmental preservation transcended state boundaries with the proposal to protect humanity and nature from industrial development.

Bahuguna had his concerns and social issues of hill people, especially the miserable plight of women of these far-off communities, very much in mind throughout his life. His early work for the temperance movements, and campaigns against untouchability, projected an integrated view of social justice. Guided through his entire career by traditional Gandhian values of non-violence, self-reliance, and reverence for nature, Bahuguna was involved in innumerable movements infavourr of social justice.

Bahuguna casts his long shadow over environmentalists and activists: a fighter for ecological resistance who showed the hair-trigger point if customary American habits were ever inefficient to subvert towards an environmental battle. Even after progressing into his later stages, he remained a voice for the disadvantaged communities of the Himalayas to raise awareness of the cause.

Sunderlal Bahuguna, the great green crusader, passed on May 21, 2021, from the complications of COVID-19, continuing to cast an undying legacy behind him. Bahuguna’s significant contributions to ecological movements have been captured in the memento book on his life and work, published later in his memory, and compiled by his daughter, Madhu Pathak. It is this legacy from Bahuguna that lives on—even death could not take this away—the legacy of hope that involves endurance and, above all, unparalleled zeal for the cause of Nature’s stewardship.

Imagine a world without connection. A place where no one’s to celebrate your wins, support you in tough times or simply share a  laugh. Sounds lonely, doesn’t it? That’s because humans are social creatures by design. From the moment we are born, we thrive on connection, and our mental wellness depends on it. Whether it’s a close-knit group of friends, a vibrant online forum or a bustling neighbourhood, the communities we are part of profoundly shape our mental health. 

But why does community health matter so much and how can it impact mental wellness on such a deep level? Let’s dive into the psychology behind community, uncover its benefits, explore its challenges and discover how fostering meaningful connections can transform lives.

Why We Need Community: A Psychological Perspective 

The concept of community isn’t  just about geography, it’s about relationships. It’s about the people who share our joys, hold space for our struggles and remind us we’re not alone. Psychologists have long studied how these connections influence mental health.

Take Urie Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Systems Theory, for example. This framework suggests that individuals are shaped by the systems around them, including family, friends, school and communities. Among these, communities act as a bridge, connecting us to the larger world while offering a safety net for support. 

Similarly, Maslow’s hierarchy of needs underscores our importance of belonging, an inherent need. Feeling connected to others, whether through shared goals, cultures or interests, enhances self-esteem, purpose and emotional stability. It’s no wonder people who feel part of a community often report higher levels of happiness and fulfillment.

How Communities Boost Mental Health?

Being a part of a community is like having a secret weapon against life’s challenges. Here’s how it helps:

Curing Loneliness and Isolation 

Loneliness is often called the “silent killer”. Studies show it can increase the risk of depression, anxiety and even physical illnesses like heart disease. But communities provide an antidote. Whether it’s a book club, a church group or a gaming squad, simply knowing you have people to turn to can make life’s burden feel lighter.

Providing Emotional Support 

Life gets messy, there’s no avoiding it. But sharing your struggles with someone who understands can be incredibly healing. Communities offer  safe space to express emotions, gain perspective and feel validated. Think of grief support groups or therapy circles, they remind us we’re not walking through hardships alone.

Fostering Resilience

Communities help us bounce back from adversity. Imagine facing a job loss, a breakup or a health scare alone versus with a group of people cheering you on. Research shows that sharing social networks enhances resilience, empowering individuals to overcome even the toughest challenges.

Building Self-Esteem

Belonging to a community reinforces our sense of identity and well-being. Whether you’re volunteering, joining a cause or being part of a hobby group, contributing to something bigger than yourself provides purpose and pride.

Not All Communities Are Created Equal 

While the benefits of community are clear, it’s important to recognise that not all groups are healthy or helpful. Here’s where the picture gets complicated:

The Downside of Toxic Communities

Some communities can do more harm than good. For example, online spaces that promote unrealistic body standards or encourage harmful behaviours can damage mental wellness. Instead of offering support, they foster companionship, judgement and insecurity. 

The Pressure to Comform

Have you ever felt like you had to suppress your true self to fit in? Communities can sometimes impose rigid norms, making members feel they must conform at the expense of authenticity. This pressure can lead to stress, self-doubt and feelings of being trapped.

Overdependence on Community

While it’s wonderful to have a supportive community, over reliance can be problematic. If someone’s self-worth becomes entirely tied to their community, they may struggle to function independently or develop their own identity.

The Science of Belonging: Social Identity and Mental Health 

Why do we feel so good when we’re part of something bigger? Social Identity Theory helps explain it. Proposed by psychologists Henri Tajfel and John Turner, this theory suggests that being a part of a group boosts our self-concept. We take pride in the successes of our community and this shared identity enhances our mental health. 

   For example, cultural or religious communities often serve as a source of strength, especially for individuals facing external stressors like discrimination. By offering solidarity and shared purpose, these groups help members navigate challenges home preserving their mental wellness

Communities in Action: Real-Life Impact

The power of community is evident across all ages and backgrounds:

Youth and Adolescents

Teens often turn to peer groups for acceptance and identity. Positive communities like sports teams or creative clubs, can guide them towards healthy behaviours and build their confidence. Conversely, peer groups can increase risks of bullying, anxiety or risky behaviours.

Older Adults 

For seniors, social isolation is a common challenge, especially after retirement or the loss of loved ones. Communities, whether it’s a senior center, a gardening group or a faith organisation, provide vital connections that improve cognitive and emotional well-being.

Marginalised Groups

For individuals in marginalised communities, shared spaces offer a lifeline. LGBTQ+ groups, for example, create safe environments where members feel seen, valued and supported in the face of social stigma.

How to Build Communities That Thrive

So, how can we create communities that genuinely enhance mental wellness? Here are some practical tips:

Make Inclusivity a Priority

Diverse, welcoming spaces are key. Whether it’s a workplace, neighbourhood or online group, ensuring everyone feels valued fosters a sense of belonging.

Encourage Open Conversations 

Communities that openly discuss mental health reduce stigma and empower members to seek help when needed. Hosting workshops, sharing resources or simply normalising these conversations can make a big difference.

Provide Access to Resources

Accessible tools, such as peer support groups or mental health hotlines, can strengthen a community’s ability to support its members.

Leverage Technology

In today’s digital age, virtual communities are a powerful tool. Online platforms like Reddit forums, wellness apps or even social media groups can connect people who might otherwise feel isolated.

Celebrate Achievements Together

Whether big or small, celebrating milestones builds trust and camaraderie. It reminds members they’re part of something meaningful.

In a world that often emphasises independence, the importance of community can’t be overstated. Connection is more than a luxury, it’s a necessity for mental wellness. Whether it’s a hug from a friend, a laugh shared in the group chat or a kind word from a stranger, these moments of connection weave a safety net that supports us through life’s highs and lows. 

By building stronger, healthier communities, we’re not just improving individual lives, we’re creating a world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. So, go ahead, reach out, join in and be a part of something bigger. Your mind and your heart will thank you. 

Bimalendu Mukherjee (2 January 1925 – 22 January 2010) was one such Indian classical sitarist and teacher whose contribution to Indian music is a permanent legacy. Right from its inception, the life of Mukherjee was steeped in a rich musical tradition. Being a student of the legendary Enayat Khan from the Imdadkhani gharana was not the only thing that aided him in evolving into a versatile force in Indian classical music; he was at the same time an eclectic student, selecting from all gharanas and maestri in pursuit of his musical ambitions.

The Musical Journey of a Synthesizer

Besides his training under Enayat Khan, his restless search for knowledge made him a student of a galaxy of gurus, like the sitarists Balaram Pathak and the khyal singers Badri Prasad and Jaichand Bhatt of the Patiala and Kirana gharanas. He gained knowledge through the instrumental as well as vocal forms, acquiring the subtle techniques of been (Rudra veena) from Rampur gharana maestro Jyotish Chandra Chowdhury, and was endowed with the skills of playing sarangi and esraj under Halkeram Bhat and Chandrikaprasad Dube. He tackled a finished course of pakhavaj under Madhavrao Alkutkar and had done virulent study for sursringar with Birendra Kishore Roy Chowdhury; the instrument is nearly extinct and primarily a bass sarod type.

A Harmony of Styles

Mukherjee was lucky to have such a variegated training for himself, where innovation was matched with an age-old sensibility. On stage, he performed a blend of styles, rare for a sitar player, which testified to his excellence in gharanas and instruments. He ruled the sitar, and his concerts also reverberated with listeners, who marvelled at the command he maintained over the soul of ragas.

Teaching at Its Best

In addition to his individualism, Mukherjee was an illustrious teacher, and his notable list of pupils included Budhaditya Mukherjee, now a world-renowned sitarist himself, who has carried on under his father’s ideals. Great musicians like Shri Sudhakar Sheolikar, Shri Avaneendra Sheolikar, Sanjoy Bandopadhyay, Anupama Bhagwat, Rajeev Janardan, and Kamala Shankar owe their musical careers to Mukherjee, whose lessons covered both technical refinement and the emotive side of music and stimulated his students toward creative attempts in the direction of classical performance.

Preserving and Forging New Traditions

Mukherjee’s contribution extended beyond his performances and classrooms; his insights fashioned the architecture of other initiatives directed at preserving and reviving lesser-known instruments like the sursringar, and he helped influence the integration of gharana traditions, creating a bridge between seemingly disparate musical styles, thereby ensuring that both cross-genre practices and traditions survived in an ever-transforming field of music.

An Enduring Legacy

It has been said that while Mukherjee may not be a household name, his influence reverberates throughout Indian classical music. Mukherjee embodies the spirit of a true guru, imparting knowledge rather unselfishly and thus being responsible for the continuity of this great art. His life and work remind us that Indian classical music is not built merely on performance but has an abiding commitment to its sustenance and propagation.

Bimalendu Mukherjee left this world on 22 January 2010, but his legacy lives on through his students and the timeless music he created, a man demonstrated by great dedication and artistry, an icon whose life continues to inspire musicians and connoisseurs alike. 

Krishna Gundopant Ginde, fondly known as “Chhotu” or K.G.Ginde to his family, was born on December 26, 1925, in Bailhongal near Belgaum. Though short in stature, his contribution to Hindustani classical music was monumental. The eighth among nine children, Ginde’s journey into the world of melody began at the tender age of 11 when he moved to Lucknow to train under the legendary music scholar S.N. Ratanjankar.

Ratanjankar’s profound influence molded Ginde’s musical philosophy. Ginde imbibed not only the technical rigor of Hindustani music but also the deep emotional connect that made every note resonate with soulfulness.

A Life Dedicated to Music

In 1951, Ginde moved to Mumbai, where he began teaching at the Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, a premier institution fostering Indian culture. His dedication and vision soon earned him the position of principal at Vallabh Sangeet Vidyalaya in 1962, a role in which he inspired countless students to explore the depths of Hindustani classical music.

Ginde was not a singer or a teacher only but a preserver of tradition and torchbearer of innovation. His performances blended technical precision and emotional depth in perfect harmony, spellbinding audiences and gaining him the respect of contemporaries like Bhimsen Joshi and Kumar Gandharva.

A Legacy Celebrated

It was the Indian classical music fraternity who came together to celebrate the remarkable contributions of Ginde on his 60th birthday. Such luminaries as Bhimsen Joshi, Kumar Gandharva, and Purushottam Laxman Deshpande graced the occasion, testifying to the immense respect he commanded.

Ginde’s versatility in music covered a plethora of ragas and compositions, each with authenticity that hailed his guru’s teachings. His nuance in interpretations of classical music made him not only a performer but the most revered guide for students.

The Final Note

It was a July 13, 1994, when K.G. Ginde’s life was cut short by a heart attack while in Calcutta. He was 68 years old. Though his mortal presence faded, the music he nurtured continues to echo through his recordings, compositions, and the lives of the students he mentored.

Remembering Ginde

The life story of K.G. Ginde is a testament that great artistry defies the time factor. He, a man devoted to Hindustani classical music, has served as a mentor, while working hard to develop tradition in his own life, will make sure his work survives the test of time.

In remembering Ginde, we also celebrate the redemptive power of music and the deep influence of teachers who guide us toward harmony in both life and art.

Om Prakash Chibber lovingly remembered as Om Prakas,h is one of the beloved icons of Indian cinema. Born on December 19, 1919, in Jammu, he journeyed from a very modest background to becoming one of the most recognised character actors in Bollywood. He has been active in cinema for nearly four decades, acting in 307 films. The legacy of Om Prakash is testimony to his versatility and continued appeal.

Om Prakash had a very early flowering of love for performing arts when he dabbled into theatre, music, and film. At the age of 12 years, he started learning classical music and set the stage for his future life in show business. His career’s first real turning point came when he entered All India Radio in 1937, which brought him great success playing “Fateh Din.” His programs were a great success and caught the attention of Dalsukh Pancholi, who featured him in Daasi. Om Prakash received just ₹80 for the film, but his performance marked the arrival of much-deserved attention.

This partition of India in 1947 marked a turning point in his life. He shifted to Bombay, where Om Prakash faced initial hardships but soon found a mentor in B.R. Chopra, who convinced him to become an actor. His first major success came with the films Lahore, Char Din, and Raat Ki Rani. These performances marked him as a reliable actor and led him to work with stars such as Dilip Kumar, Raj Kapoor, and Dev Anand in films such as Azaad, Mera Naam Joker, and Tere Ghar Ke Samne.

Om Prakash was a master of versatility, be it comedy or drama. He was a delight to watch in comedies such as Pyar Kiye Jaa, Padosan, and Gol Maal. However, he was not less remarkable in dramatic roles, especially in Gopi, Zanjeer, and Namak Halaal. Even Dilip Kumar admitted that Om Prakash had outshone him in the film Gopi.

Aside from acting, Om Prakash even ventured into film production. His productions, such as Jahan Ara and Gateway of India, indicated his love for narration. Although the conditions behind the camera were not perfect, Om Prakash managed to put up a performance through his production.

Om Prakash’s unique voice, expressive face, and natural flair made him a favourite in Hindi cinema. Whether playing the quirky uncle, a kind-hearted patriarch, or a comic relief character, he brought depth and authenticity to every role. His ability to evoke laughter and tears cemented his place in the hearts of audiences.

Tragically, on February 21, 1998, the world lost the talented Om Prakash, who succumbed to a heart attack. His untimely death signified the conclusion of a remarkable era in Indian cinema. Yet, the profound impact of his work continues to resonate, inspiring countless actors and filmmakers to this day.

Reflecting on his illustrious career, we are reminded of Om Prakash’s indelible mark on the film industry. His legacy is a testament to the enduring power of storytelling and the unique ability to evoke joy through laughter. His memorable performances, characterised by a delightful blend of charm, humour, and depth, remain firmly entrenched in the history of Bollywood, ensuring that his spirit and extraordinary talent will shine on for generations to come.