Padma Shri Mukesh Batra launches ‘TOXIC’, explores overlooked forms of modern-day toxicity
Kolkata/IBNS: Padma Shri awardee Dr. Mukesh Batra launched his latest book, TOXIC, at Oxford Bookshop in Kolkata on August 21. The book examines forms of toxicity beyond conventional physical exposure, including mental, emotional, spiritual and digital influences on everyday life.
Actress Debolina Dutta attended the launch as the chief guest. The evening was hosted by Bengali actress Falaque Rashid Roy, with Anuja Roy as the guest of honour.
“Disease is not just about the virus; that’s where we are all wrong. What I have noticed is that there are a lot of problems which are lifestyle-based. Therefore, the external environment must also be taken into account,” Batra said, explaining the idea behind the book.
TOXIC, written by Dr. Mukesh Batra and Swami Shailendra Saraswati, is divided into five sections: Physical Toxicity, Mental Toxicity, Emotional Toxicity, Spiritual Toxicity and Inner Healing.
The book looks at everyday factors that can influence physical and mental wellbeing, including lifestyle and environmental influences.
Speaking to IBNS about mental health concerns among Gen Z, Batra pointed to greater social acceptance of conversations around mental health.
He also discussed what he describes as “digital toxicity", referring to the impact of social media, digital aspirations and unrealistic standards of life on young people.
Dutta, who spoke about her own experiences with mental health during her personal and professional journey, also raised concerns about the growing commodification of the health and wellness sector.
“The commodification of the health and wellness industry was there since the time I was born. Whenever there is a community who would really want to help humans with mental and physical health, there immediately will be an anti-community who would want to pollute the truthfulness of the business and earn more money through untruthful ways,” she said.
Roy, who moderated the discussion, spoke about the need for sustainable and individualised approaches to lifestyle and wellbeing.
“It’s not about a cleaner life but a life that you can sustain at your own level. Every human being’s capacity is different. I can have three litres of water; you can have two. So there is a limit to every routine,” Roy told IBNS.
She also spoke about the influence of social media on body image and mental health, urging people not to compare their lives with the lifestyles presented by influencers and celebrities online.
TOXIC is priced at Rs 399 and is available at major bookshops across India, as well as online.
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