My Journey as a Pediatrician – Part 1: The Early Days

As I sit down to write this, I find myself reflecting on a journey that has been as challenging as it has been rewarding. My name is Dr. Anil Mokashi, and my life’s work has been dedicated to the health and well-being of children. The path that led me to pediatrics was not a straight one, but it was one filled with purpose, passion, and a deep-seated desire to make a difference.

The Beginning of a Calling

My story begins in a small town where I grew up surrounded by the warmth of a close-knit community. From a young age, I was drawn to the idea of helping others, a trait that was nurtured by my parents who were both deeply involved in community service. It was no surprise then that I was drawn to medicine—a field where I could make a tangible impact on people’s lives.

Medical school was where I discovered my true calling. While I initially had an interest in general medicine, it was during my pediatric rotations that I found my passion. There is something incredibly fulfilling about working with children. Their resilience, innocence, and potential for growth struck a chord with me, and I knew that pediatrics was where I was meant to be.

Building a Career in Pediatrics

After completing my medical education, I began my career as a pediatrician. The early years were intense, filled with long hours and steep learning curves. But every challenge was a lesson, every child I treated a reminder of why I chose this path. My approach to pediatrics has always been holistic—I believe that treating a child goes beyond just addressing their physical ailments. It involves understanding their environment, emotional well-being, and the unique dynamics of their family.

One of the most memorable moments early in my career was treating a young boy who had been struggling with chronic asthma. His parents were overwhelmed, and his quality of life was severely affected. Over several months, we worked together to manage his condition through medication, lifestyle changes, and most importantly, educating the family on how to create a supportive environment at home. Seeing him thrive, play, and breathe freely for the first time was a moment I will never forget. It solidified my belief that pediatric care is as much about empowering families as it is about treating the child.

The Birth of Bal Kalyan Kendra

As my career progressed, I became increasingly aware of the gaps in care for children with special needs. Many of these children were not receiving the attention and support they deserved. It was this realization that led me to establish Bal Kalyan Kendra in 1979, an institution dedicated to providing comprehensive care and education for children with mental, physical, and developmental challenges.

Bal Kalyan Kendra was born out of a vision to create a nurturing environment where every child, regardless of their abilities, could thrive. We started small, with just a handful of students, but our mission was clear—to offer a safe space where these children could receive not only education but also the therapeutic and emotional support they needed. Today, our school serves over 350 students, each one a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.

Pediatrics Beyond the Clinic

While my clinical work and the establishment of Bal Kalyan Kendra have been central to my journey, my commitment to pediatrics extends beyond the walls of the clinic. I have always believed in the power of education, not just for children but for parents and caregivers as well. Over the years, I have written numerous articles, guides, and even a few books aimed at demystifying child healthcare and providing practical advice to parents.

My writing is an extension of my practice—a way to reach more people, share insights, and advocate for better healthcare policies. Whether it’s discussing the importance of vaccinations, addressing common parenting challenges, or highlighting the needs of special children, my goal has always been to empower parents with the knowledge they need to raise healthy, happy children.