Aarogyam 4.0

The duality of Bombay never failed to amaze me. Government employees—or, rather, government slaves—clutching onto overhead rails while travelling in the local trains which are packed like sardines, in contrast to the rich who drive in comfort right next to them, one of the biggest slums of the country- ‘Dharavi’ overlooking the biggest corporations and the largest industries, religious temples where holy devotes bowed down their heads in belief, being right next to a butcher shop. Joggers and couples strolling along the beach,

savouring the sunset where ragpickers sifted through the same sand, hunting for scraps to survive. Ironic, isn’t it?

The Rotaract Club of NMIMS ASMSOC— “What is the first thing that comes to your mind when you think about it?” was the first question asked to me by my director as I was giving my interview to be a part of the same network, to be a ‘Rotaractor’ as we call it. Back then, my answer was simple, a mere statement that I was yet to believe in. Nonetheless, it gave me the honour of being selected as a respected member.

It was a couple of weeks later that my entire WhatsApp and other socials were filled with messages regarding a certain event, which was going to be hosted by the association. Aarogyam 4.0, which was going to be conducted on the 12th of October, it would stand as one of the biggest flagship events of the Rotaract club - Juhu’s biggest health camp which would offer free medical check-ups and services for the residents of Nehru Nagar. It was going to be the fourth time that the association would successfully be holding the event in collaboration with the club’s parent rotary, which would offer a whole range of health services from dental and vision related aid to dermatology consultations.

I was responsible for being a part of the public relations team, one day prior to the D-day. It involved going to the alleys of Nehru Nagar and requesting the residents in the area to attend the drive the next day. Words would fail to capture the gravity of that experience. Each conversation humbled me, showing me a world vastly different from my own. My chest ached when a shop vendor recounted her son’s failed suicide attempt at just ten years old, leaving him with lasting mental and psychological struggles. Listening to the stories of each of them, their struggles, it made me realize, that maybe we were complicating life way too much, it was never really that grave.

A wide range of medical services was offered completely free of cost the next day—blood tests, general check-ups, blood pressure monitoring, physiotherapy, dental and eye care—every need was looked after. Free spectacles were distributed to those who needed them, and special doctors for children ensured that even the youngest were cared for. Every detail thoughtfully organized—it truly reflected the Rotaract spirit: service beyond self.

The Rotary District 3141 Governor, Rtn. Dr. Manish R. Motwani, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest, adding to the pride and excitement of the day. I had the incredible honour of interviewing him alongside my Director Rtr. Hrisheeka Dua (Director, Editorials)—an experience that started with nervous laughter but ended with heartfelt gratitude. I also had the privilege of interviewing Rtn. Dr. Ranjit Bhosale (Director, Youth Services), Rtn. Yogini Sheth (Director, Community Service), and Rtn. Pragna Mehta (Club President)—each of them shared inspiring insights about the power of collective effort and compassion.

The event’s success was also made possible by the unwavering dedication of the Rotaract Club of NMIMS—Rtr. Yash Baisya (Director, Partners-in-Service), Rtr. Yash Vasudeo (Club President), and Rtr. Urvi Jain (Club Secretary)—whose hard work behind the scenes ensured that every aspect ran smoothly.

As the day ended, I found myself looking around at the crowd—thousands of faces lit with relief, gratitude, and hope. It was overwhelming in the best way possible. That day, I realized that service doesn’t always mean doing something grand; sometimes it’s about showing up, caring, and giving your time. It’s deeply human—and that’s what made Aarogyam 4.0 unforgettable.

~ Aakansha Bhattacharya

Member of Editorials