An Experience Never Expected Before

By Dr Dhatatrreya (Sabbatical from 15th January 2024 - 15th April 2024)

The word sabbatical was used regularly in PSU sector, for the first time I saw an advertisement for sabbatical to those who work/ head a voluntary organization and they are ready to compensate with financial assistance if he/she got selected. In my 23 years of experience, forget about sabbatical nobody cared about holidays, thanks to The Cocoon Initiative led by Vishal Ji, for providing me the 1st opportunity.

In an interview, Vishal Ji wanted me to go on a minimum of 3-months' vacation which, I thought will be difficult. However, at the end I agreed, after having discussion with my senior team members and family.

Indeed, it is a wonderful experience overall. The major changes which I came across in my life is that my son who always used to miss me, enjoyed my 3 months stay with him. The major positive changes which I gained officially from the sabbatical are as follows: -

• My team handled every situation in my absence - They showed not only the second line but, the youngsters are also capable of running the organization, and a few team members proved that they can also lead the branches of the organization.
• The only question raised by the funding agencies was, “what happened to Dr. Dhatatrreya? Why is he not responding? We need him.” This experience shows that it is not the only organization, which is depended on the funding agencies, but the funding agencies don’t want to talk to anyone other than the founder. I think cocoon initiative should create awareness among funding agency also.

The changes in my personal life are as follows: -

• Considerably my weight reduced by 6 kg.
• Haphazard food habit is contained, and I am able to control the wrong food habits.
• Travelled with my family to relative’s place and attended social programs for the first time in two decades.

Negative Impacts:

• I had a habit of wake at 4:00 am and strictly going to bed at 10:00 pm
• In last 40 years I Never watched T.V or Movies in the theatres, but in these three months, at least nine movies and regular television become a habit. Yes, now I go to bed at 12:30 am (midnight) and wake up at 7:00 am this is bad but wonderful

I don’t know if it’s good or bad, but Vishal Ji your initiative changed our overall perspective. Not only me, but for all of us, we will make a policy within this framework that at least a month of sabbatical for all team members without any fail from our organization. as these changes gives tremendous energy, and the body gets rejuvenated.

I, joined by my family members and team specially my son, thank Vishal Talreja ji and team Dasra for showing a new way of life within the setup.