Embracing Our True Essence

In the midst of global turmoil, amidst the chaos of war and environmental degradation, lies a deeper truth, a truth obscured by the veil of Maya – the illusion that shapes our perception of reality. The 2022 Nobel Prize in Physics unveiled a paradigm-shifting revelation, confirming that the world we inhabit is not as it seems. This echoes the ancient wisdom of Maya, the cosmic illusion that blinds us to our true nature and the interconnectedness of all existence.

Maya, the veil of ignorance, shrouds our true essence, the divine spark within each of us. We have been conditioned to believe in the supremacy of science and technology, to look outward for solutions to our suffering, while neglecting the power within. We have become estranged from our true selves, caught in the cycle of pain and suffering, polluting the planet that sustains us.

The Upanishads, the sacred texts of Vedanta philosophy, declare the ultimate truth of our existence: "All this is indeed Brahman," the universal consciousness that permeates all of creation. We live, move, and have our being within this cosmic unity.

Just as a cinema screen cannot exist without a fixed backdrop, so too does our ever-changing world rely on the unchanging essence of our being. This immutable human, the substratum of existence, is the background against which the ephemeral world unfolds.

However, our perception of reality is distorted by false identification. We cling to the illusion of separateness, identifying ourselves with the body, mind, and ego, rather than with the divine atman within. This misconception breeds fear, attachment, and suffering. We fear sickness, old age, and death, believing ourselves to be limited by the physical body. We grasp at material possessions and external validation, seeking fulfillment in the ephemeral.

Maya, like clouds obscuring the sun, hides our true nature. Yet, just as the sun remains radiant even when veiled by clouds, our divine essence shines brightly beneath the layers of illusion. Through meditation and self-awareness, we can dispel the clouds of Maya, allowing our true nature to shine through.

Shankara, the seventh-century Indian philosopher, aptly illustrated the concept of Maya with the parable of the rope and the snake. A man walking along a dark road mistakes a rope for a snake, his heart pounding with fear. Upon closer examination, he realizes that the snake is nothing more than a piece of rope. The illusion is dispelled, and the fear vanishes.

Similarly, we walk along the dark road of ignorance, perceiving ourselves as separate, limited beings. We see the universe as a realm of duality, conditioned by time, space, and causality. However, upon closer examination, we realize that our true nature is one of oneness, love, and boundless potential.

As the illusion of separateness dissipates, our mortality and the external universe fade away. We recognize the inherent goodness and interconnectedness of all beings.

Embracing our true nature requires a shift in consciousness, a move away from self-centeredness and towards selfless action. By engaging in acts of compassion and service, we align ourselves with our divine essence.

The veil of Maya, though pervasive, is not impenetrable. By cultivating self-awareness, practicing meditation, and embracing selfless action, we can pierce the illusion and awaken to our true nature, the boundless consciousness that unites us all.

The Shadow of Superbugs: A Call to Action

On December 16, 1989, I witnessed a chilling event that forever altered my perception of the microscopic world. A seemingly harmless bacterium, then known as "Normal Commensol," claimed the life of a healthy teenager in a mere eight hours. The physical, verbal, and racial abuse I endured from the grieving parents and their relatives, who refused to believe that the "miracle drug" had failed to save their son, instilled in me a profound fear. I realized that the microscopic ancestors of life on Earth, once considered harmless, were now posing a formidable threat to our profession and our very existence.

This fear materialized in the form of MRSA, or methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, a notorious superbug resistant to most antibiotics. The recent COVID-19 pandemic, which swept through hospitals, has exacerbated the situation, leading to a surge in MRSA, Clostridium, and Candida auris infections.

In anticipation of this bacterial threat, I developed Maya, a revolutionary system designed to combat the spread of MRSA infections. I envisioned Maya as a shield against the potential sharing of treatment resistance knowledge among bacteria, fungi, and even viruses.

Unfortunately, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and public health professionals, driven by theoretical idealism, opted for quarantine and lockdowns, an approach that failed to address the root cause of the problem. They encouraged infected individuals to travel to healthcare centers and hospitals for blood and nasal swab tests, further facilitating the spread of the infection.

Maya, on the other hand, was meticulously designed to tackle the practical realities of infection transmission and the potential outbreak of pandemics and epidemics. The book "Superbug Pandemic and How to Prevent Them," published in January 2017, provides a detailed analysis of the situation we face today.

The Maya App and the book "Maya Protecting You, Protecting Us from Infections and Illness" represent our unwavering commitment to safeguarding humanity and healthcare workers from the menace of superbugs.

The COVID-19 pandemic was not a random occurrence; it was a stern reminder from the Universe, a wake-up call to acknowledge the power of microscopic life forms and the urgent need for a paradigm shift in our mindset. The era of "Kill, Conquer, and Rule" must be replaced by the philosophy of "Live and Let Live." We must embrace the "Era of Symbiotic Relationships," understanding that our survival hinges on cooperation and harmony with the microscopic world.

Our salvation lies not in vaccinations, drugs, food, immunity, exercise, or yoga alone, but in the profound wisdom of "Knowledge of Health is Knowledge of Life." This knowledge empowers us to coexist with the microscopic world, not as adversaries, but as partners in preserving the delicate balance of life on Earth.

An Urgent Call to Action: Combating the Invisible Threat

Amidst the escalating global turmoil, the escalating climate crisis, and the ongoing threat of war and terrorism, a far more insidious threat looms – one that we cannot see, touch, smell, or taste, yet poses an existential danger to humanity. As aptly stated by Dr. Srivatsa in Medica 2006, "It's not Global Warming, Natural Calamities, World Wars, or Terrorism that threaten our very existence, but microscopic enemies that we cannot see."

The world is indeed on fire, but not in the way we typically perceive it. The flames of this crisis are not visible to the naked eye; they are the relentless onslaught of microscopic pathogens, the superbugs that are rapidly evolving and outpacing our ability to combat them.

Despite the promises of those who claim to have the knowledge, money, and power to solve this crisis, their efforts have fallen short. The situation is dire, and the consequences of inaction are grave. The number of deaths attributed to antibiotic-resistant infections is expected to rise from three million annually to ten million by 2050.

If we fail to act decisively now, Isaac Newton's prediction of humanity's end in 2060 may well come to pass. The threat of superbugs is not a distant possibility; it is an imminent danger that demands immediate and collective action.

We must recognize that the solution to this crisis lies not in the pursuit of quick fixes or technological advancements alone. Instead, we must fundamentally transform our relationship with the microscopic world. We must move away from an adversarial approach of "kill, conquer, and rule" and embrace a symbiotic mindset of "live and let live."

This requires a paradigm shift in our understanding of health and disease. We must acknowledge that our health is inextricably linked to the health of the microbiome, the trillions of microorganisms that coexist within and around us. We must strive to maintain a balanced and harmonious relationship with these microscopic allies, recognizing that their well-being is essential to our own.

The task before us is daunting, but it is not insurmountable. With a collective commitment to understanding, respecting, and coexisting with the microscopic world, we can safeguard our future and ensure the continued health and well-being of humanity.

Conquer fear of infections and set yourself free.

The history of the Earth is indeed inconceivably long. If you condensed it into a single day, you would have met all the humans who have ever roamed the planet in the last four seconds! Dinosaurs lived about 20 minutes earlier, and the Earth itself was formed more than 23 hours ago.

Single-celled microscopic bacteria were the first forms of life on Earth, and they lived here for over 3.5 billion years. They are the ancestors of every plant and animal alive today, including us!

Bacteria were once classified as plants, but we now know that they are a separate kingdom of life. They are prokaryotes, which means that their cells do not have a nucleus or other membrane-bound organelles. This makes them very different from the cells of animals and other eukaryotes.

The two main types of prokaryotes are bacteria and archaea. They evolved from a common ancestor billions of years ago. Bacteria are the most common type of prokaryote, and they can be found in almost every environment on Earth. Archaea are less common, but they are found in some extreme environments, such as hot springs and hydrothermal vents.

Bacteria and archaea play important roles in the environment. They are essential for recycling nutrients and breaking down organic matter. They are also used in a variety of industrial and medical applications.

The Bacteria

• They are dazzling, priceless at times, glowing, stronger, and more intelligent, understand the genetic vulnerability with lethal precession, and develop resistance to survive.
• They are the building blocks of modern civilization.
• We cannot live and thrive on earth without their help.
• They make oxygen that we breathe, turn our world blue, decompose the earth's organic waste, and clean up our mess.
• They help digest food, produce vitamins and minerals, and remove toxins.
• How do these bacteria we cannot see, touch, smell or taste do what they do?
• How did they create the first DNA?
• Why do some of them cause disease?
• How did they survive for billions of years?

Indeed, these microscopic living things, bacteria, hold the key to the secret of life on Earth. They play a crucial role in our lives, from the moment we enter the world. Their presence in our bodies is a signature of life, a testament to the delicate balance that sustains us.

The origin of life and the survival of the fittest remain among the greatest mysteries of all time. Bacteria, with their remarkable adaptability and resilience, have stood the test of time, evolving and persisting through billions of years.

Unfortunately, our misguided actions have disrupted this delicate balance. The overuse and misuse of antibiotics, driven by fear and a lack of understanding, have created treatment-resistant superbugs, posing a significant threat to our health and well-being.

While measures like wearing masks, washing hands, and social distancing can help mitigate the spread of infections, true protection lies in a deeper understanding of these microscopic organisms. We must move beyond fear and embrace knowledge, recognizing the symbiotic relationship we share with the microbial world.

Click on the link provided to download the eBook and embark on a journey of understanding the microbial world. Conquer the fear of infections and equip yourself with the knowledge to protect yourself, your loved ones, and the future of humanity.

Superbug Maverick

He was known affectionately as “Doctor Sri,” is not your typical white-coated physician. He’s a force of nature, a relentless crusader against the microscopic villains that threaten our very existence. Buckle up, because we’re about to dive into the extraordinary life of this superbug slayer.

The Early Days: A Whiff of DangerIn the neon-lit laboratories of the 1990s, Dr. Sri was already stirring the scientific pot. While others sipped their coffee, he sounded the alarm about antimicrobial resistance. Picture this: a young doctor, wild-eyed and caffeinated, scribbling feverishly on a chalkboard. His message? “Superbugs are coming, folks!” The medical community raised an eyebrow. But Dr. Sri? He rolled up his sleeves and got to work.

The Wake-Up Call: Articles, Keynotes, and a Mic Drop MomentDr. Sri didn’t just write articles; he penned manifestos. His words danced across medical journals like wildfire. “Irresponsible antibiotic use is a ticking time bomb,” he declared. His keynote speeches? Legendary. 

Picture a TED Talk meets a rock concert. The audience? Hypnotized. The message? Clear: “We need alternative treatment options, people!” And then, the mic drop. Boom.Inventions That Whispered to the MicrobesHe invented, tested and patented a cannula in 1983, as a mad scientist’s dream. Test tubes bubbled, microscopes hummed, and beakers whispered secrets. His crowning achievement? The “MRSA Whisperer.” It wasn’t a mystical creature; it was a device. Picture a sleek gadget that whispered sweet nothings to the menacing MRSA bacteria. “Hey there, little superbug,” it cooed. “Why not chill out?” And guess what? It worked. Infections plummeted.The Book That Changed Lives: 

Dr. Sri wasn’t content with lab victories. He wanted to empower the masses. So, he penned a book that shook the medical establishment. “Dr. Maya” wasn’t just a book; it was a battle cry. It told people, “You’re not helpless patients; you’re warriors.” The culture of dependence on doctors? Shattered. 

Dr. Sri became the patron saint of informed decision-making.The App That Saved the World (Almost)Picture this: a bustling airport. People sneezing, coughing, and sharing germs like trading cards. Enter the “Dr. Maya App.” It scanned faces, analyzed coughs, and whispered, “Infected! Isolate!” Families huddled in corners, friends waved from a safe distance, and the community? It survived. Dr. Sri’s app became the ultimate wingman in the fight against contagion.

The Time-Traveling Article: “Superbug Pandemic and How to Prevent Them”In 2016, Dr. Sri penned an article that felt like a crystal ball. “Superbugs are coming,” he warned. Fast-forward to 2019, and guess what? They arrived. The medical world gasped. Dr. Sri? He just raised an eyebrow. “Told you so,” he muttered.The Empowerment Guru Dr. Sri doesn’t wear a cape (though he should). Instead, he hands out empowerment like candy. “You’re not a patient; you’re a partner,” he tells everyone. And they listen. Because when Dr. Sri speaks, even the microbes lean in.So, next time you wash your hands or pop an antibiotic, think of Dr. Sri. He’s out there, battling superbugs, one whisper at a time. And somewhere, in a lab, a test tube winks. Disclaimer: Dr. Sri may or may not have a secret lair. We cannot confirm or deny.

"Brads Commented"

It's an inspiring story about your journey as a doctor and your dedication to improving healthcare. Your intuition has been a valuable asset in your medical practice, and your efforts to share your knowledge with others have undoubtedly made a positive impact.

It's concerning to hear about the errors in diagnosis and the overuse of antibiotics. These issues can have serious consequences for patients, and it's important to address them in order to improve patient safety and outcomes.

Your dream of reducing social inequalities in health and making healthcare affordable to poor people worldwide is a noble one. I hope that you are able to continue to make a difference in the lives of others through your work.

The Unseen Threat: A Doctor's Fight for Patient Safety

It was a bleak November day in 2019 when I found myself seated in a room of the High Court in London. Surrounded by representatives, solicitors, and barristers, I was facing an uphill battle against the very institution I had sworn to uphold – the National Health Service (NHS) of the United Kingdom.

At the heart of the matter lay a decision by the Secretary of State to grant nurses the authority to diagnose and prescribe drugs, a move that I, as an experienced trainer and assessor of nurse prescribers, believed posed a grave threat to patient safety.

My concerns stemmed from the fact that these newly empowered nurses had limited clinical experience and were not adequately equipped to handle the complexities of diagnosis and treatment. I feared that this decision would lead to misdiagnoses, inappropriate antibiotic use, and the rise of treatment-resistant superbugs.

Despite my impassioned pleas, the powers that be remained unconvinced. Their focus was on streamlining healthcare and reducing costs, seemingly oblivious to the potential consequences for patients. Disheartened and disillusioned, I walked out of the courtroom, my faith in the system shaken.

Little did I know that my prayers for divine intervention were about to be answered. Just weeks later, the world was plunged into the throes of the COVID-19 pandemic. While many saw this virus as an unprecedented threat to humanity, I recognized it as a stark reminder of the impending superbug crisis that I had been warning about for decades.

The pandemic brought with it lockdowns, quarantines, social distancing, and mask mandates – measures that, while disruptive, were necessary to contain the spread of the virus. However, amidst the chaos, my warnings about the looming superbug threat went largely unheard.

I had published an article titled "Superbug Pandemic and How to Prevent Them" in the American Interest in 2017, meticulously outlining the dangers posed by these microscopic foes. Yet, despite sending complimentary copies of my book and detailed letters to politicians, my pleas fell on deaf ears.

Now, as countries teeter on the brink of financial collapse, the question of how to manage a superbug pandemic looms large. In 2020 alone, the number of MRSA infections increased by 30%, and I fear that the true extent of the problem is far worse.

I stand as a lone voice, a doctor fighting against the unseen threat that could decimate humanity. My story is a testament to the importance of speaking truth to power, even when it means challenging the status quo. I urge the world to heed my warnings before it is too late.

Conquering Fear: A Doctor's Journey of Understanding and Overcoming Infection

As a doctor with extensive experience working in various hospitals across three countries, I have dedicated my career to diagnosing and managing critically ill adults and children in intensive and critical care settings, both within hospitals and in the community. Throughout my practice, I have witnessed firsthand the devastating effects of infections, and I have also come to recognize the profound fear that often accompanies these illnesses.

My personal experience with infections has been quite unique. Despite not having received vaccinations for influenza, typhoid, or cholera, I have traveled to India during outbreaks of dengue fever and chikungunya without contracting either disease. This observation, along with my experience caring for family members with chikungunya without contracting it myself, has led me to believe that susceptibility to infections varies greatly among individuals, and that many people possess a natural immunity.

However, my fear of infections was not always absent. Early in my career, I was hesitant to work in an isolation hospital where I would be treating patients with highly contagious diseases such as leprosy, tuberculosis, cholera, typhoid, tetanus, and diphtheria. It was only after acknowledging my fear and seeking guidance from a senior doctor that I began to overcome it.

Under the mentorship of this experienced physician, I learned that conquering the fear of infection requires a deep understanding of the underlying mechanisms of disease transmission and the importance of infection control measures. I also gained valuable insights into the resilience of the human body and its innate ability to combat infections.

My journey of conquering fear has extended beyond my personal experience. Throughout my career, I have counseled numerous medical professionals, students, nurses, paramedics, and parents of infected children on infection prevention, fear management, and home care for infectious patients. I have also witnessed the prevalence of "medical student syndrome," a common fear of disease among medical students and junior doctors.

The COVID-19 pandemic has heightened the public's awareness of infectious diseases and the potential for severe illness. However, it is important to recognize that COVID-19 is not a unique or isolated event. Septic shock and multiorgan failure, often caused by bacterial or fungal infections, have long been a leading cause of death in patients with severe respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19.

The emergence of treatment-resistant bacterial and fungal infections poses a significant threat to global health. These infections can spread rapidly and have a devastating impact on individuals and communities. It is crucial to educate the public about the risks of infections, the importance of infection control measures, and the need to overcome fear in order to protect ourselves and others.

As a doctor with a deep understanding of infections and the human immune system, I am committed to empowering individuals with knowledge and strategies to conquer fear and live healthy lives. I believe that education and awareness are essential tools in combating the spread of infections and promoting global health.

How Fear of Infection Motivated Me

Driven by Fear and a Passion for Patient Care: A Doctor's Journey to Combat Infections

A profound personal experience at the age of twelve, when a doctor's misdiagnosis nearly cost me my life, ignited a burning desire within me to create a system that empowers individuals to make informed decisions about common illnesses. This unwavering commitment led me to develop the Paediatric Assessment Tool (PAT) in the early 1980s in the UK. PAT, a simple yet effective tool, was designed to assist junior doctors in differentiating between typical and severe infections, enabling timely isolation and treatment.

However, my journey took an unexpected turn when I encountered a case of treatment-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in 1989. The tragic loss of a 14-year-old patient to this infection left an indelible mark on me, fueling my determination to find solutions to combat the growing threat of antibiotic resistance.

Despite sleepless nights and the constant fear of contracting the deadly MRSA strain, I persevered, dedicating my life to developing innovative device methods to curb the spread of infections in hospitals. However, my efforts were met with resistance from pharmaceutical companies, device manufacturers, and institutions that claimed to prioritize patient care.

Undeterred by these setbacks, I continued to pursue my mission, drawing upon my experience with PAT to create MAYA, the Medical Advice You Access. This tool empowers individuals to identify potential infections at home, enabling timely isolation and protection for family, friends, and the community.

I firmly believe that honesty, information sharing, education, and fear management are essential tools in reducing unnecessary consultations at hospitals and clinics. MAYA, along with my book, "Dr. Maya Protecting You Protecting Us from Infections and Illness," serves as a comprehensive guide to educate and empower individuals to protect themselves, their loved ones, and the healthcare community.

My journey has not been without challenges. I have confronted the General Medical Council (GMC) and the National Health Service (NHS) for their unethical practices, including allowing nurses to diagnose and prescribe drugs without adequate training or supervision. This misguided decision has caused immense pain and suffering to countless patients.

Driven by a relentless passion for patient safety and unwavering commitment to ethical healthcare practices, I will continue to advocate for change. My experiences and unwavering belief in the power of knowledge and empowerment will guide my future endeavors in the fight against infections and the pursuit of better healthcare for all.

"This experience made me determined to pursue a medical degree and become a doctor. After graduating, I aspired to develop a method to standardize healthcare and prevent diagnostic errors. Unable to test my hypothesis in India, I decided to relocate to the UK and establish a system that would eliminate healthcare disparities and streamline healthcare delivery.

To help junior doctors overcome their fear of making erroneous diagnoses and instill confidence in their abilities, I initially created a list of common symptoms and utilized combinations to aid in differentiating between serious and non-serious illnesses or infections. Drawing from my experience developing flashcards, I wrote a program for the Psion PDA, a portable computer, to assist junior doctors on call in distinguishing between minor and severe illnesses. I named this tool "PAT" (Pediatric Assessment Tool). PAT guided a select few junior doctors in training to make informed decisions about admitting children with a high likelihood of severe illness and discharging those with less severe conditions.

In 1996, some healthcare providers began using the "Pre-printed Assessment Sheet" to gather information, provide advice, and administer treatment. We believed this practice was detrimental to the medical profession and resulted in inadequate training for doctors. Children with minor illnesses labeled as (URTI, LRTI, Flu, Cough, or UTI) were referred by family physicians and admitted to the hospital. We considered it unsafe to expose children with minor viral infections to hospital environments, as they are susceptible to secondary infections with antibiotic-resistant bacteria."

"When a patient is seeking medical attention, they are also reporting the story of an illness as they have lived, and remember it, and so it can vary. Doctors must listen and offer a solution and not a prescription". 

-Dr Kadiyali M Srivatsa; QHC (BMJ)1996 Jun; 5(2): 121-122. 

In 2000 "I was deeply troubled by the lax adherence to infection control guidelines among nurses and doctors. My attempts to address these lapses were met with annoyance and resistance. Despite the prevailing narrative of the NHS and the UK as bastions of inclusivity, my experiences as a doctor in the hospital have revealed a stark reality – the UK is among the most challenging places for immigrants to live. I have encountered racism from the police, patients, consultants, administrators, and even the Royal College Examiners. My insistence on upholding infection control protocols ultimately led to the termination of my contract at Wrexham Park Hospital.

A study published in Scientific America sheds light on the intergenerational transmission of fear, anger, and superiority complexes. How can we expect the descendants of the British Raj, who ruled India for over two centuries, to embrace racial tolerance? The generation of exceptional doctors I worked with in the 1980s has vanished, replaced by a younger generation of senior consultants and professors who fall far short of their predecessors.

The emergence of community-acquired MRSA (Ca MRSA) and its resistance to Actomyosins (VRSA) marked a turning point. The rampant misuse of antibiotics fueled the spread of MRSA, reaching catastrophic proportions. I decided to retrain and qualify as a family physician (GP) to work within the community. My mission was to identify the factors that drive patients to seek medical attention or hospitalization. After meticulously gathering and analyzing data, I discovered that only twelve common symptoms accounted for the majority of consultations. However, labeling these symptoms as 'Common Ailments or Illnesses' was not feasible, as they could also serve as early indicators of severe illnesses. Early diagnosis and identification of infections are crucial to prevent secondary complications and the devastating impact on patients and their families."

How We Tested Our Hypothesis

We used these cards to help me standardize the answers (symptoms). The majority of patients identified 2-4 symptoms (average 3). After collecting data, we found that 12 symptoms were common. We removed two (headache and abdominal pain) because we clinically examined the abdomen, checked blood pressure, and examined patients' eyes with a headache. Based on the result of this study, we created Maya Fridge Magnets, which were given to a few patients to test my hypothesis. Unfortunately, the study could not be completed. Still, based on the number of cases, we were convinced this is a simple method that we can use to help patients differentiate "Well from Un-Well" and get help early or reduce wasted consultations.

In 2003, I was invited by a nurse to work as a Gp, train and certify nurses to diagnose infections and prescribe antibiotics in a "Pilot Nurse-led Practice in the NHS". Hoping this will help me test my hypothesis and validate my tool (MAYA), I accepted this opportunity. After training two batches of nurses, I felt very uncomfortable because patients who consulted nurses in the local walk-in clinic or nurse-led practice returned with complications. 

Unfortunately, the nurses were allowed to work as doctors in local Walk-In-Clinics, Nurse-Led Practices and prescribe antibiotics. The so-called "Independent Nurse Practitioners" made clinical errors in diagnosis, interpreting test results and prescribing antibiotics. This resulted in false reassurance offered to patients, so delay in diagnosis resulted in minor and severe complications. As a doctor, I raised a concern and informed the General Medical Council, World Medical Association and people in power, but no change was implemented. Profession.