At 85, this pioneer of breast conservation surgery still spends long hours in the OT: ‘If you lust for life, you will keep going’

Physical exercise and diet mantras

Dr Bose, who has been a sportsman in his younger years, says his early commitment to physical fitness is holding him in good stead now. Still, he is very regimental about his daily walks and physical activity levels. Apart from walking every morning and evening, he does not sit in the house but keeps moving. “I work on my legs because I have to stand for long hours during surgery. I do stretch on a regular basis to keep my joints flexible,” he says.

While he loves his food, Dr Bose refrains from eating out and prefers regular home-cooked meals. He avoids late night meals.

Self-care for mental health

“I have cultivated a habit of not worrying, and being present in the moment, and this I believe is paramount for peace in every aspect of your life, as stress can be very detrimental. I had faith in my work, and that comes from focused practice, constant research and learning every day. That keeps me on my toes,” he says. Other than that, there is music. “My interest in art, music, theatre and sports has given my life colour. Now I keep organising cultural shows at festivals in PGI so that others can see that life is much more than what we straitjacket it into,” he says.

Spending time in his library is his biggest joy as that’s where he reads, writes, speaks to peers across the world over Zoom and researches daily.

Give and you will get back

Dr Bose says he values patient care above all else. “No amount of money can give you that satisfaction. Along our journeys, we can never undermine the values of friendship, love and support of family, encouragement of mentors and colleagues and giving back what you have got and learnt in the process. These are pillars to help you age with grace,” he says.