K. V. Thakker, 64 years
“Actually it was only when I joined this group that I developed some confidence in life. After a heart attack, it is only natural to feel victimised… you have no control over your own body. I was advised to undergo by–pass surgery in 1991, but it took me a year to finally decide. I wanted to be sure I was doing the right thing.

I had taken several opinions from several doctors and only after I was convinced that I underwent by-pass surgery. By being a part of this group, I felt more confident. The consciousness that ‘I am a heart patient’ has been greatly diluted and in its place is a wonderful awareness of how my body works. I think this is what is important for everyone in this situation… to feel that they are not patients, but people capable of enjoying life”.

Mr.Thakker can be contacted atThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Kumari Sawhney
“The only reason I joined this group was because my husband is part of it. I think that one should take responsibility for one’s own health and this was just one of the ways. We should not wait untill we have heart problems, we should take care before hand”.

Mrs. Sawhney can be contacted at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Ravi Sawhney
“I do not have any heart trouble, but have had surgery done for aneurysm of the abdominal aorta, besides I also had blood pressure problems. Being a retired Vice Admiral from the Indian navy, I have always led a very disciplined life. But what I like about these meetings is that the instructors understand each of our problems and support us every step of the way. This is enough to convince even the hardcore sceptic about how a particular exercise works for our bodies”.

S. K. Agarwal, 52 years
“I am not a heart patient, but I joined these sessions only to prevent future heart attacks. We generally do not take care of ourselves, we drink, smoke and do everything that is not good for our health. By being part of this group, I feel more in control of my life. I think the combination of Yoga and Meditation gives better results. I feel very energetic and a deep inner peace which helps me stay de–stressed in any situation”.

Shantilal Lunkad, 55 years
“When I had a heart attack, I was miserable. I felt that it was time for me to go. Whatever years I had left were a bonus. I had two angioplasties, one in 1988 and the other in 1996. But I was still not feeling good about myself. I had heard about this programme and decided to try it out. After doing yoga and aerobics, I now feel fit. In fact, I feel more comfortable and not as helpless as I used to. We meet everyday and this helps as we share our thoughts and feelings with people who suffer from the same problem. I think for me these meetings and exercises are like an addiction. I just cannot keep away from them. Even if I have to go to Mumbai I don’t take the morning Deccan Queen because I will miss the session, instead I travel later, just so that I don’t miss my class”.