Meet Dr. Bankey Lal Sharma, the 95-year-old philosopher from Gujarat who doesn’t just live; he thrives. In a world that often equates happiness with the bustle and crowd, Dr. Sharma finds fulfillment in solitude and simplicity. His life is proof that living well isn’t about gadgets or indulgences but about purposeful routines and a clear mind.
Embracing Solitude as a Gift
After his wife passed away in 2019, Dr. Sharma could have let loneliness overwhelm him. Instead, he embraced the solitude as a personal space for reflection and self-care. “No one can be with you all the time. Learn to enjoy your own company,” he advises. This attitude has not only helped him cope with grief but has also become his source of strength.
The Healing Power of a Simple Routine
For Dr. Sharma, a day starts with the gentle embrace of dawn and the art of yoga. His morning routine is less about achieving the perfect pose and more about harmonizing with his body and breath. The simplicity—rooted in consistency—offers him peace in life’s stormy seas. His granddaughter-in-law has even joined him in pranayama, inspired by his dedication.
A Lifelong Commitment to Meditation
Every morning, Dr. Sharma sits in quiet meditation, practicing an uncomplicated method of ‘Sit and breathe.’ This has been his mantra, allowing distractions to pass without judgment. His technique of swadhyaya, or self-study, examines thoughts like a teacher checks homework, nurturing peace and understanding.
From a Humble Past to a Content Present
He grew up in Bulandshahr amidst scarcity and hardship, yet these challenges only fueled his determination. Walking kilometers to learn, reading by an oil lamp, he grew from a curious boy into an academically accomplished man. Rather than dwelling on hardship, he draws strength from his past, embracing resilience over regret.
Nourishment Beyond Nutrition
Food without restrictions and thoughts without negativity define Dr. Sharma’s philosophy. He enjoys meals, from juicy burgers to traditional roti-sabji, without succumbing to health fads. He truly feeds his mind with enriching books and thoughtful reflection, keeping negativity at bay while maintaining a healthy distance from the noisy trends.
Finding Happiness Beyond External Pursuits
Remarkably, Dr. Sharma observes that true happiness springs from within, not from external achievements or possessions. “Happiness comes when the mind is trained to see the good,” he says. Despite life’s challenges, he cultivates joy through gratitude, mindfulness, and a calm spirit, finding satisfaction from within rather than waiting for it to approach him.
In a world racing against time, Dr. Sharma’s lifestyle is a gentle reminder that happiness and fulfillment dwell not in abundance but in appreciation of life’s simple pleasures. According to Times of India, his life serves as a loving testament to the power of inner peace and solitude.
