This week for our special weekly column of Hyderabond, The Pioneer connects with Kavita Panyam, a counselling psychologist progressing in Hyderabad, sharing her association, and insights from her life in Hyderabad.
Subodhini Purohit
Meet Hyderabad-based Kavita Panyam, a seasoned counselling psychologist who is making progress. She has found her professional purpose and a strong sense of belonging in Hyderabad’s lively community, despite the difficulties she faced upon moving from her military background to Hyderabad.
In the lively backdrop of Hyderabad, she discusses her path of career achievement and personal growth through her perceptive insights! “Because of my father’s military profession, I was born and reared in the vibrant North; I didn’t start to settle into Hyderabad’s calm atmosphere until after he retired in 1994. I always thought that people in the North were more gregarious, lively, open, and less reserved when I was a child. I also happen to be that kind of person. But since coming here, I’ve observed that Hyderabadis are generally laid back. But I’ve noticed a shift since the pandemic. People now appear more motivated to succeed in life. As they say, “Nawab ka Sheher,” it’s a reflection of the easygoing pace of life.”
With regard to Secunderabad in particular, “it’s even more laid-back.” However, the twin cities are very different when taken into account. They are similar to big cities in that they offer prospects for accumulating riches, and a bustling leisure environment. They may not be as good as places like Bombay, Delhi, or Bangalore, but they are unquestionably superior to many other locations!
Her ability to have a casual conversation in Hindi is one factor that helps her in this situation. Here in the twin cities, there is a balanced approach to language, unlike in other southern cities where Hindi may not be as extensively spoken! The greatest benefit of residing here is that.
On the other hand, it has been difficult to acclimate to Hyderabad’s year-round hot weather and restricted options for dining, entertainment, and education after living in other Indian cities where she was exposed to a variety of vibrant cultures.
“The climate here is one thing that continues to bother me,” she says. “As someone who grew up experiencing all four seasons, I find it difficult to get used to Hyderabad’s never-ending heat. Additionally, there don’t seem to be many notable eateries in the area, with the only options for cuisine being Biryani and Khubani-ka-Meetha.” Then, after completing her undergraduate studies in Bangalore and moving to Hyderabad for her post-graduation education, she had studied all throughout India. At first, she noticed that everyone around here didn’t have the same enthusiasm that she was used to. Therapists and healers seldom visit for workshops, and beyond engineering and medical fields! The college culture here also leaves much to be desired. “My younger son attends Loyola Academy, but I haven’t seen the kind of college life I experienced in the 90s. It feels more like an extension of school than a place for holistic learning.”
Despite its unique charm, the city’s recreational landscape could benefit from further diversification to cater to varied interests. “In the military, the concept of a hometown can be fluid, given the frequent relocations. My roots trace back to Bangalore through my mother and Gudivada in Andhra Pradesh through my father, but Hyderabad holds a special place in my heart. After years of living here, it’s become my chosen hometown. Shopping in Hyderabad offers a unique variety not found elsewhere. Laad Bazar stands out for its ethnic dresses and wedding shopping, though grooming schools are scarce.”
Kanha Shanti Vanam, a meditation hall, has recently emerged as a significant spiritual destination for her. “The serene ambience of Taramati Baradari and the captivating sound and light show at Golconda Fort are personal favourites. While there are temples aplenty, options for family outings are somewhat limited, with Yadagirigutta Temple being a primary choice.” She continues to shares, “Every place has its pros and cons, and what I appreciate about Hyderabad is its tranquil atmosphere. Unlike the frenetic pace of some cities, it embraces a sense of calmness. Engaging in simple activities like gardening feels fulfilling when there’s no pressure to constantly be on the go. In essence, Hyderabad offers a haven for the nervous system, allowing one to embrace a more peaceful way of life.”
She shares about her career here: “After completing my psychology education at the University of Arts and Social Sciences in Hyderabad, initially, therapy wasn’t widely embraced, with many being hesitant and shy, even covering their faces when seeking help. However, the pandemic brought a significant shift, with a surge in people seeking therapy, even for minor issues. I’ve witnessed a transformation in attitudes towards therapy, with pre-marital counselling becoming less taboo. Hyderabad has emerged as a conducive environment for practising psychology, especially with the increasing acceptance and demand for counselling services.”
The significance of Hyderabad in her life, she shares, “When I first began my practice in Hyderabad, I grappled with the challenge of not being proficient in Telugu, having been raised in northern cities where English and Hindi were my primary languages. However, two years ago, opportunities arose with media organisations, prompting me to participate in series and shows on examination stress, albeit in a mix of Telugu and English. Despite my initial hesitations due to my limited Telugu vocabulary, I soon realised that the essence of content creation and the desire to assist others transcended language barriers. As collaborations expanded, I discovered a sense of belonging within the city’s warm embrace. Though not originally from Hyderabad, the community welcomed me wholeheartedly, providing me with opportunities to flourish as a therapist. Over time, I’ve come to embrace my Telugu Brahmin identity, finding fulfillment in serving the evolving needs of Hyderabad’s diverse populace.”
