I have been asked by my guru to explain the unique tradition that exists in our relationship which is known as Guru-Shisya. The phrase refers to the teachings of a guru to a disciple where subtle and advanced knowledge is conveyed and received. To me, Professor Dr. P.H. Kulkarni is like a living encyclopaedia, a friend and a father-figure wrapped up in a wonderfully humble package with enormous wisdom, humour and a sense of fun. I often smile quietly to myself when I think of him. I remember him in his lovely simple stone-built office having his afternoon cat nap – often falling asleep while I am still talking and asking questions (I know it is enough to send anyone to sleep!). How his eyes light up when he talks about his beloved wife or encourages his students. The way he speaks so gently and kindly to his patients. “Let it be, let it be” he says with a smile in his voice and within moments of sitting down his patients almost forget what was troubling them so much before they were in his presence. I thought I would start my assignment at the very beginning, by asking myself what is a teacher? Who is a teacher? What is the role of a teacher? What makes a good teacher?

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"No looking back," is a phrase an ex-boyfriend of mine said as we broke up. He meant it kindly so we could both look to the future and get on with the task of searching for our soulmate. He meant, don't dwell on the past, look forward. However, I believe we have to look back in order to move forward...that is the why learning about history, our roots and where we come from is so important; without this awareness it is difficult to know who we are. Ayurveda is very clever because over the thousands of years the wisemen and women have observed how our attitudes to our friendships also reflects our ayurvedic dosha or personality.

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