A STRAY CAUSE

ANUSHTHA GUPTA, 21 Final-year BBA student, Jagannath International Management School (JIMS), Delhi

Had this been any other July morning, Anushtha would have been applying for internships or sitting for exams. But like many other young people, she too found her life thrown into uncertainty thanks to Covid. “We don’t know when exams will take place or when the next academic session will start…” But till such time, she has found succor in yoga and meditation. “They helped me keep healthy and positive.”

It was also around this time that Anushtha discovered her love of animals. The NGO she is involved with—Dhyan Foundation—has taught her how to think beyond herself. Ever since the lockdown started, she has been feeding stray dogs and cows around her home in Preet Vihar in Delhi. “Not only do I feed the strays but I also spend time creating awareness about animal welfare on social media. It keeps me free of stress and leaves me with no time for negative thoughts,” she explains.

When not helping the voiceless, Anushtha spends time on selfdevelopment. She is working on upgrading her computer and communication skills. She is also grateful for the Rotract Club at her college. “They have been organising various sessions by professors and psychologists on mental health and how you can cope with stress. Many of my peers have found it useful.” She also advises everyone not to focus on negative news. Socialising with friends helps, and she is in touch with them over social media. Eating at home is a refreshing change. “You don’t realise how dependent you have become on junk food,” she says.

“FEEDING STRAY ANIMALS HELPS ME KEEP FREE OF STRESS AND LEAVES ME WITH NO TIME TO THINK NEGATIVE THOUGHTS”