Khamma Ghani to Vanakkam: A Journey of Public Health & Rajasthan Byways
In January 2026, I packed my bags and moved to the rugged, beautiful landscapes of Rajasthan. I had accepted a contract job as a Research Lead with the Centre for Healthcare at IIM Udaipur—a brief but intense window to apply operations management to public health systems, specifically working with Ayushman Arogya Mandirs in regions like Salumbar.
Now, as June draws to a close and I prepare to move back home to Chennai, I am looking back at a whirlwind half-year that was equal parts professional milestone and spectacular cultural immersion.
The Twin Landscapes: Research and the Field
My days were anchored in the intellectual ecosystem of IIMU, collaborating with colleagues to streamline healthcare delivery. But the true heartbeat of the project was out in the field. Spending time in and around Salumbar—conducting hands-on operational training with local healthcare staff—grounded all our theoretical models in the raw, inspiring reality of rural Rajasthan.
But when the weekend came, the research took a backseat, and the exploration began.
Living the Mewar Heritage: In and Around Udaipur
Udaipur didn't just become my temporary home; it became an absolute muse. I spent hours tracing history through the grand corridors of the City Palace and climbing up to Sajjangarh (The Monsoon Palace) with my friends for panoramic views of the Aravallis. I found quiet moments of reflection at the intricate Jagdish Temple, and took a serene evening boat ride across Lake Pichola to watch the sunset from Jag Mandir.
And of course, no weekend was complete without diving into the local Mewari culinary scene—feasting on authentic, ghee-laden Dal Baati Churma and the crispest Pyaz Kachoris.
The Open Road: Road Trips & Pilgrimages
The travel bug didn't stop at the city limits. Over the last six months, my journey took me deeper into the heart of the state, tracking down heritage, spirituality, and incredible views:
Mount Abu: A refreshing escape into Rajasthan’s only hill station. I stood at the highest peak of the Aravallis at Guru Shikhar, enjoyed a peaceful afternoon boating on the lake, and caught spectacular views from the Honeymoon and Sunset points. Nature trails through the Wildlife Sanctuary, the history of Achalgarh Fort, and the breathtaking, intricate marble carvings of the Dilwara Temples made this an unforgettable stop.
Bhilwara: Stepping into this vibrant district, my focus turned toward its rich spiritual heritage, spending quiet time at its famous, revered Lord Shiva and Hanuman temples.
Bhadrajun: A fascinating step back into history, exploring the imposing Bhadrajun Fort and paying respects at the ancient, legendary Goddess Subhadra Temple, nestled beautifully within the valley.
Khatu Shyam Pilgrimage: A deeply spiritual journey out toward Sikar to visit the powerful Lord Khatushyam Temple, which included a memorable, peaceful stay near the transit town of Reengus.
The Road Ahead: Mixed Emotions and the Next Chapter
As I pack up my desk at IIMU, the excitement of returning home to Chennai is mixed with a familiar, quiet anxiety. Short-term contracts are exhilarating for the sheer density of work you get to do, but their conclusion always brings you right back to the drawing board.
Stepping back into the job market is always a bit daunting. The process of searching for the next role, updating the CV, sitting through interviews, and waiting for the right alignment of research impact and organizational fit comes with its own set of worries. It is a phase of uncertainty, and navigating that transition requires as much patience and strategy as any field project.
However, if my time in Rajasthan has taught me anything, it's that bottlenecks are just problems waiting for an operational solution.
Vanakkam, Chennai!
I am leaving the City of Lakes with a heavier suitcase and an even richer mind. I came here to help engineer better health systems, and I return with invaluable field insights, lifelong professional connections, and memories of a spectacular landscape.
From the lakes of Udaipur back to the beaches of Chennai, it has been an unforgettable ride. Khamma Ghani, Rajasthan—and wish me luck for the next hunt!
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