“I grew up in a multicultural household with a semi-liberal mindset, surrounded by a traditional community. Regardless of societal boundaries, my parents encouraged and supported me and my siblings to follow our dreams, be self-independent, self-sufficient, harbor self-respect, and have a sense of social responsibility. These values, especially from my mother, have transitioned to me.

I hold a Ph.D. in Cell Biology from a renowned university. As J.K. Rowling famously said, ”Rock bottom became the solid foundation on which I rebuilt my life.” The years I spent pursuing my Ph.D. were indeed my rock bottom, but they also marked the beginning of laying my solid foundation.

Why do I share my rock bottom times? Did I feel content and fulfilled with the highest academic degree? And why mention the sense of social responsibility? I share this because they are all intertwined, forming the firm foundation I stand on today.

The past few years have stirred in me some uneasy but fundamental questions. The most challenging one is – What is the meaning and purpose of life? Since then, I have been on this quest, untangling the strings along the way. While I may not have hit the bull’s eye, I am more certain than ever that life is beyond the materialistic mesh we have created.

Life is something far more purposeful than striving to work for a corporation, earn money, or build bungalows. For me, it is about looking into myself and beyond! What counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived; it is the difference we have made in the lives of others. These are not merely spoken words by Nelson Mandela, whom I greatly admire and draw inspiration from, but a sort of calling for me.

Vichaar Vibes is one small step toward that calling. Although officially a podcast, it is, more importantly, an idea born out of love, hard work, determination, and dedication of three individuals with a common goal.

Priyanka Kore, Rashmita Jadav, and I, coming from different spheres of life, are unified in our vision to make a difference, even if it’s a tiny one, in the lives of others.

Through inspiring stories of common people like you and me, we hope there will be a positive impact in the lives of the common man. I know the road is long and challenging, but I am also sure that I will not waver from my beliefs and principles as I walk down this less-taken path.”

• Noelle, co-founder of Vichaar Vibes