
Languages
Languages have always been more than just a means of communication for me. They are a gateway to understanding different cultures, perspectives and ideas. Each language I learn adds a new dimension to my worldview, allowing me to connect with people on a deeper level and appreciate the nuances of their experiences. The ability to speak multiple languages enriches my interactions, both personally and professionally, and opens doors to opportunities that would otherwise remain closed. Whether it is navigating complex technical discussions with international colleagues or simply enjoying a conversation in someone's native tongue, language skills have been invaluable in broadening my horizons and fostering meaningful connections. In a world that is increasingly interconnected, I believe that being multilingual is not just a skill but a vital tool for personal and professional growth.
Telugu
Telugu has always held a special place in my heart—not just as my mother tongue, but as a language that carries with it the rich heritage and culture of my roots. Speaking and understanding Telugu connects me to the traditions and wisdom passed down through generations, allowing me to appreciate the art, literature and history that are unique to my community. It is more than just a means of communication; it is a way of thinking, a rhythm of life that resonates deeply within me.
Being fluent in Telugu also allows me to engage with a vast body of knowledge and art that might otherwise be inaccessible. From classical poetry to modern cinema, the language is a treasure trove of expressions that reflect the diversity and depth of human experience. For me, maintaining and celebrating my proficiency in Telugu is a way of honoring my heritage and staying connected to my identity, even as I navigate the complexities of a globalized world. It is a reminder that while we may embrace new languages and cultures, our mother tongue remains a vital part of who we are.
English
English, for me, is much more than just a global language—it is a bridge that connects me to a world of ideas, opportunities, and people from diverse backgrounds. It has become an indispensable tool in both my personal and professional life, allowing me to engage with the broader scientific community, access vast amounts of information and participate in global conversations.
Having a strong command of English has opened doors that might have otherwise remained closed, from international collaborations to staying informed about the latest developments in my field. It is this language that has allowed me to transcend geographical boundaries, making it possible to communicate complex ideas with clarity and precision, regardless of the audience.
Moreover, English has given me the ability to appreciate a wide array of literature, media and culture from around the world. Whether I am reading a scientific paper or enjoying a classic novel, the versatility and richness of the English language enhance my understanding and enjoyment. In many ways, English has become a second nature to me, a tool that effortlessly integrates into every aspect of my life, helping me to grow, learn, and connect in an increasingly interconnected world.
German/Deutsch
German has become an integral part of my life, almost as much as Telugu. My fluency in German goes beyond just being able to converse; it is a language that has shaped my professional and personal experiences in profound ways. Speaking German has allowed me to immerse myself in a rich cultural and intellectual tradition, whether it is engaging with the works of great philosophers, scientists, or simply enjoying the depth of German literature and art.
Professionally, German has been a gateway to new opportunities and collaborations, especially in fields where German-speaking countries are at the forefront of innovation and research. It is a language that has enabled me to navigate academic environments in Germany with ease, allowing for seamless communication and integration.
What I particularly appreciate about German is its precision and clarity. The structure of the language often mirrors the meticulous nature of scientific thought, which is perhaps why I find it so rewarding to use in my work. Being fluent in German is not just about speaking the language; it is about thinking in it, understanding the cultural nuances, and truly connecting with the people and ideas that it brings into my life. Whether I am engaging in a technical discussion or simply enjoying a conversation with friends, German continues to be a valuable and enriching part of my life.
Hindi
Hindi holds a special place in my linguistic repertoire, offering me a bridge to connect with a vast and diverse population. Being fluent in Hindi at around 80% proficiency allows me to engage with the language in a meaningful way, whether it is through conversations with friends and colleagues or enjoying the richness of Hindi literature, cinema and music.
For me, Hindi is is a gateway to understanding the cultural and social fabric of India. It enables me to appreciate the nuances of communication in a country where regional diversity is vast and yet Hindi serves as a unifying thread. My proficiency in Hindi enhances my ability to connect with people on a deeper level, allowing for more authentic interactions and fostering a sense of belonging in various parts of India.
Being fluent in Hindi also opens up opportunities to engage with content that might otherwise be lost in translation. Whether it is enjoying a classic Hindi film or participating in discussions that shape local and national narratives, my ability to understand and converse in Hindi enriches my experiences and broadens my perspectives. It is a language that keeps me connected to the pulse of the nation, offering insights that go beyond what is possible through other languages.
Tamil
Tamil has always been a language that resonated with me on a personal level, even though my fluency in it was around 40% and, admittedly, has faded over time. There was a period when I could converse comfortably in Tamil, enjoying the rhythm and beauty of a language that carries with it a rich cultural heritage. Though I may not speak it fluently anymore, the memories of engaging with Tamil remain vivid, and the essence of the language still lingers in my mind.
For me, Tamil was not just about communication; it was a connection to a deeper cultural and historical context. Understanding and speaking Tamil, even at a basic level, gave me access to a world of literature, music, and traditions that are uniquely tied to the Tamil-speaking regions. It allowed me to appreciate the intricacies of a language that is one of the oldest in the world, with a history and literature that have influenced so many aspects of South Indian culture.
Even though my ability to speak Tamil has diminished, the language remains an important part of my linguistic journey. It reminds me of the importance of staying connected to different languages and cultures, and of the richness that comes from understanding and appreciating the diversity of the world we live in. While I may not be fluent in Tamil today, the language has left an indelible mark on my life, one that I continue to value and respect.
Sanskrit
Sanskrit has always fascinated me, even though my fluency in the language is low, and I rarely use it now. There was a time when I could navigate through its intricate grammar and rich vocabulary, and those moments left a lasting impression on me. Sanskrit, with its profound influence on so many languages and cultures, represents a deep reservoir of knowledge, philosophy, and spirituality.
For me, learning Sanskrit was not just about acquiring a new language; it was about connecting with the roots of ancient wisdom and understanding the classical texts that have shaped much of Indian thought and tradition. The language carries with it a sense of timelessness, a connection to the past that continues to resonate in various aspects of life, from literature and art to science and spirituality.
Although I do not use Sanskrit in my daily life, the experience of learning it has enriched my understanding of other languages and cultures. It has given me a unique perspective on the structure and beauty of language itself. The precision and depth of Sanskrit have always intrigued me, and while I may not be fluent today, the language still holds a special place in my linguistic journey. It serves as a reminder of the intellectual and cultural heritage that Sanskrit represents, and the importance of preserving and appreciating these ancient languages, even if they are not part of our everyday conversation.
Malayalam
During my time at VSSC, ISRO, I made an effort to learn Malayalam, driven by a desire to connect more deeply with the local culture and people. Although I donot use it much anymore, the experience of learning Malayalam was both challenging and rewarding. The language is rich with cultural nuances and a unique script, and even the basics I picked up helped me appreciate the depth and beauty of Kerala’s heritage. Learning Malayalam was more than just a linguistic exercise; it was a way to immerse myself in the everyday life of the region. It gave me the ability to engage in simple conversations and better understand the local traditions, literature and art that are so integral to the culture of Kerala. Though I may not be fluent, those attempts to learn and understand the language have stayed with me, reminding me of the warmth and hospitality of the people I met during my stay. Even though I donot use Malayalam frequently now, the experience has left me with a lasting appreciation for the language and the rich cultural landscape it represents. It also reinforced the idea that language learning is a powerful tool for building connections and fostering understanding across different cultures, something that I continue to value deeply.