As my introduction to this episode where I interview the CEO of a mental healthcare startup reflects, I have experienced the loss of a family friend by suicide very recently. He was the pro-Vice Chancellor of Jadavpur University in Kolkata, India and beloved by students and colleagues alike. He also happened to be my neighbor. If there was ever a person whose personality radiated warmth — with the broadest grin that broke into a mischievous smile, which even his ample beard couldn’t hide, and large twinkling eyes – it was Samantak Das.
I was reminded of two lines from a Bengali poem written by Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore that my mother found cause to share with me over these many years (here’s my poor attempt at translation):
Bahirite jar hashir chhota/Those with outward joy and cheer
Bheetore thake chokher jol/Hide a tormented soul within
I felt the same way when Robin Williams took his own life.
I hope that Kevin Dedner, CEO of Hurdle, and others in his shoes who are attempting to bring hope to those that are utterly bereft, are successful. For, inaction on this matter can only compound the tragedy. To anyone out there feeling helpless, please dial 988 to get the support you need. You are not alone.
