Devrudra Banerjee

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29th February'24

In the spacious, sunlit lecture hall, Professor Bhatia stood at the front, along with Dr. Singh and Dr. Gupta ,their presence commanding the attention of the students seated in orderly rows. The walls were adorned with inspirational posters, and large windows allow beams of sunlight to spill across the desks, illuminating the faces of eager learners.

Professor Bhatia, a distinguished figure with salt-and-pepper hair and an air of wisdom, adjusted his glasses as he surveyed the room. With a subtle nod, he began to speak, his voice resonating with authority and enthusiasm.

"Good morning, everyone. Today, we will be presenting you two intriguing projects which has been finalized by the dedicated team, each offering a unique set of challenges and opportunities for innovation."

He clicked a remote, and the screen behind him came to life with the first project titled : "Nano-Engineered Drug Delivery Systems for Targeted Cancer Therapy".

"Project NDDS as it named by the student who submitted" Professor Bhatia explains, "The objective of this project is to develop innovative nano-engineered drug delivery systems that can target cancer cells with high precision, minimizing the side effects commonly associated with conventional chemotherapy. This project explores the intersection of biochemistry, nanotechnology, and medical science to create a breakthrough in cancer treatment."

Professor Bhatia paused, allowing the students a moment to absorb the wealth of information. He then elaborated on the key points and potential impacts of each project, his enthusiasm evident in every word.

 He then handed over the remote to Dr. Singh for the second topic demonstartion. As the new tab opened in the LED screen, the new title reads: Harnessing Neural Plasticity for Stroke Rehabilitation: Advanced Neuroprosthetics and Brain-Computer Interfaces. The slide depicted various scans of MRI along with computational model to describe them.

"Project Neural Plasiticity," he continues, "This project aims to explore and develop cutting-edge neuroprosthetics and brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) to enhance stroke rehabilitation. By leveraging the principles of neural plasticity, this project seeks to create innovative solutions that can restore motor functions and improve the quality of life for stroke survivors. The intersection of neurology, bioengineering, and computational neuroscience will be the foundation of this ambitious endeavor."

The room buzzed with excitement and curiosity as students begin to ponder which project would capture their interest and ambition. Professor Bhatia, noticing the energy in the room, smiled warmly.

"Remember," he said, "both projects are not just about applying your knowledge but about pushing the boundaries of what is possible. I expect nothing less than your best efforts and most creative solutions."

With that, he concluded the briefing, leaving the students to discuss and deliberate over the opportunities that lie ahead. The scene was set for a competition of discovery, challenge, and groundbreaking achievements.

Dr. Gupta, with a warm smile and an encouraging nod, addressed the assembly of eager students and faculty members.

"Now, it is up to all of you to cast your votes," he began, his voice resonating with enthusiasm and respect. "Having said that, I want to acknowledge the remarkable quality of the other two projects that were submitted. They were truly outstanding, and the decision to select only two was incredibly challenging. To the brilliant minds behind those projects, do not be disheartened. You have ample opportunity to refine and bring your ideas into the spotlight."

He gestured to two elegant trays positioned at the front of the room. "In front of you, there are two trays with the number attached to them numbered as the serial of topic being discussed. Please place your chits in either of them to support the project you believe holds the most promise. Remember, your contributions and insights are invaluable in shaping the future of medical innovation."

Dr. Gupta paused, letting the weight of his words sink in. His eyes scanned the room, meeting the gaze of several hopeful students. "Doctors, each of you has shown incredible dedication and creativity. Regardless of today's outcome, continue to push the boundaries and pursue excellence. Your efforts are the heartbeat of progress."

With a final, reassuring smile, he concluded, "Cast your votes wisely, and let us continue this journey of discovery and advancement together."

It was evident to everyone present which department had submitted each topic. As much as I strive for impartiality, I must admit that the second topic captivates my interest and holds tremendous promise. However, I am keenly aware of the spirited rivalry that often emerges between the departments of Surgery and Medicine, along with their allied disciplines, especially during these voting sessions.

The anticipation in the room was palpable, as colleagues exchanged knowing glances and whispered speculations. The competitive spirit, while fierce, was underpinned by mutual respect and a shared commitment to advancing medical science. Both the doctors, with its unique expertise and perspective, had poured considerable effort into their proposals, making the impending decision all the more difficult and significant.

As we prepared to cast our votes along with our signature, the hall remained silent, an ambience of pressure, expectation lingered in the hall.

At the end of vote casting, the three assigned professor, started to count the votes.

Dr. Gupta took a deep breath, the room quieting in anticipation as he prepared to announce the results. "So, the votes have been cast, and the results are now displayed on the board," he began, his voice steady and clear. "One topic received five votes, while the other garnered four. It was truly a head-to-head competition, reflecting the high quality and compelling nature of both proposals."

He paused, allowing the tension to build. "It appears that the Anatomy Department played the decisive role, as their votes broke the tie when both topics were neck and neck. Additionally, as per our guidelines, we have excluded the votes of the doctors who submitted the topics to ensure fairness. Unfortunately, Dr. Krishna, who had been an invaluable contributor, will not be part of the project due to his recent accident. Our thoughts are with him during his recovery."

I had suspected as much, given that the Anatomy Department would naturally lean towards supporting Surgery, and the insinuation had clearly indicated that the PGY-3 student from Anatomy had cast his vote in favor of the first topic despite the alliance. My gaze drifted toward her, and I observed her face, which remained inscrutably neutral. It was evident to everyone in the room which topic had emerged victorious, the air thick with a mix of anticipation and resolution.

Despite the clear outcome, there was no trace of remorse or sadness visible on her countenance. Her demeanor was composed, almost detached, as if she were a mere spectator to the unfolding results rather than an active participant in the decision-making process. This calm, imperturbable expression was a stark contrast to the charged atmosphere around her, where the echoes of the vote reverberated with both triumph and disappointment.

In that moment, the room was charged with a collective understanding of the results, yet the subtle absence of emotional response from her highlighted the complex dynamics of professional rivalry and the inherent partiality that often accompanies such high-stakes decisions.

Dr. Bhatia's voice resonated through the room with a sense of finality and celebration. "I am pleased to announce that the topic selected for the competition is 'Nano-Engineered Drug Delivery Systems for Targeted Cancer Therapy,' proposed by Dr. Shetty from the esteemed Department of Biochemistry. Congratulations, Doctor Shetty! Your innovative approach to enhancing cancer therapy through cutting-edge nanotechnology has clearly captivated our attention and earned you this well-deserved recognition."

He then turned his gaze to the her. "The other exceptional topic, submitted by Dr. Ghosh from the Department of Neuro-Surgery, was indeed a formidable competitor. Dr. Ghosh, your proposal on advancing neuroprosthetics and brain-computer interfaces was equally compelling and demonstrates your dedication to pushing the boundaries of medical science."

Dr. Bhatia's expression softened with encouragement as he concluded, "While the outcome has been decided, I want to extend my heartfelt best wishes to Dr. Ghosh for your future endeavors. Your groundbreaking work is invaluable, and I have no doubt that it will continue to inspire and drive progress in the field."

With a final nod of appreciation, he added, "Thank you all for your remarkable contributions and for embracing the spirit of innovation that propels us forward. Let us move ahead with renewed enthusiasm and commitment to advancing our collective knowledge and expertise. With that, we conclude today's meeting. Your hand on commencement would be starting from March 3rd. And today you all have leave after this, no classes or duty, so enjoy".

I could feel the suppressed grin of Dr. Shetty and her presence closer to me with each seconds passing.

"You voted for me, right? I knew, my topic would be selected" her nasal voice chided.

"I cast my vote for the topic that I believe truly deserved the recognition, and the choice of which topic was more intriguing is open to interpretation and personal opinion," I remarked with a thoughtful tone. "Now, I have some other tasks to attend to, so I must take my leave. Please excuse me."

I made my way to the serene garden adjacent to the meeting hall, seeking solace amid the greenery. As I wandered through the tranquil surroundings, it struck me that I was perhaps more disheartened than she appeared to be. While I had been in the meeting hall, her demeanor remained unfazed and composed, her attention seemingly absorbed in her own contemplative thoughts. The contrast between her calm presence and my own inner turmoil became increasingly evident, underscoring the complexity of professional rivalry and personal reflection.

With my closed eyes, i heard a soft raspy female voice beside me.

"Dr. Banerjee, can you hear me?" the voice again rasped into my ears.

As I opened my eyes, a silhouette of a female emerged from the haze of my blurred vision. I instinctively rubbed my eyes, trying to clear the fog, and removed my spectacles to gain a clearer view. The action brought her into sharper focus, revealing the intricate details and subtle elegance of her presence that had previously eluded me.

And then, quite unexpectedly, I saw her standing directly in front of me. She wore the same elegant white kurti, its simplicity accentuated by the delicate tendrils of her hair, which were softly tousled by the gentle winter breeze. These strands of hair gently caressed her cheeks, creating a striking contrast with her serene expression. Her shoulders were draped with a navy blue woolen shrug, adding a touch of sophistication and warmth to her ensemble. The scene was a vivid tableau of grace and quiet resilience, capturing a moment of serene elegance amid the crisp, wintry air.

I was enchanted by her presence, completely bewitched to see her, with the crimson glowed in the sky, she stood there with a soft smile, much contrast to her usual stoic face.

"Yes" I fumbled, scratching my nape because of the embarrassment.

"Um, I am here to seek a help from you" Her voice, though soft, had a rasping quality to it, each word emerging with a husky, textured resonance.

It was the first time I had ever witnessed a hint of hesitation in her voice, a subtle wavering that revealed her vulnerability. It was clear that she sought assistance from me, a request that seemed to align serendipitously with my own circumstances. In that moment, it felt as though fate itself was favoring me, presenting an unexpected opportunity to offer support and perhaps forge a new connection.

"Yeah sure, but first e boso ekhane" I said with  a hint of mischief in my voice.

[first sit here]

Sitting beside me, with a small but significant gap between us, she began with a soft chide in her voice. "The help I need concerns a project," she explained. "It's similar to the current one, but it started five months ago. Now, I'm at the pre-national stage and need to revise my original topic." She paused, gathering her thoughts.

"And I chose this project," she continued, her tone a mix of earnestness and anticipation. "Dr. Singh will be my official mentor, alongside a senior resident whom I'm still to meet. However, the project requires support from a radiologist, and Professor recommended you. Jodi apni kichhu mone na koren ,then would you be willing to review my proposal?  Kono pressure nei—it's entirely up to you whether to accept or decline." She finished, her gaze steady and a bit hopeful.

[If you don't mind][There's no pressure]

"I would be reviewing this , but I have one condition" I again chided with the whimsy tone.

I could feel her straighten up a bit, anticipating about my condition.

"The condition is tumi amake tumi kore bolbe, naki apni. Bujhle?" My voice took on a serious tone as I spoke, and I noticed her intently gazing at me. My patience gave way, and a hearty laugh escaped me, filling the space around us. Alongside my laughter, I heard her melodic, albeit softer, laughter join in, creating a harmonious echo between us.

[you would address me as "tumi" not "apni". Understood?]

As our laughter resonated through the secluded, serene ambience, I took a step closer, driven by the hope of drawing nearer to her presence. The sound of our shared amusement seemed to bridge the gap between us, enhancing the quietude of our surroundings and fostering a sense of new connection.

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Author's note:

This wraps todays chapter, it was bit large than the other chapter. The topics mentioned above, I tried to give a small summary of them.

Pehla Nasha, expresses the exhilaration and sweetness of experiencing a new bond or relationship. The lyrics convey the excitement and freshness of discovering someone special for the first time.