This morning, I hung up my boots and stepped down as the Medical Superintendent (MS) of MGIMS Hospital.

Twelve years ago, I reluctantly took on this role. As a physician-teacher with no prior management experience, the early days were daunting. It felt like being thrust into Test cricket at Sabina Park without ever having played first-class cricket.

The pitch was treacherous, the skies overcast. Some deliveries bounced unexpectedly, while others spun sharply from wide of leg to knock over the off stump. It took time, but I gradually understood the game. Over weeks, I learned where my off stump was. Months later, I found my confidence—starting cautiously in the “V” before fearlessly hooking and pulling.

Over time, I began to see the bigger picture. The challenges were immense: increasingly empowered patients demanded care that was more convenient, effective, and affordable. Meanwhile, healthcare professionals sought more staff, better budgets, modern equipment, and improved infrastructure. Balancing these competing needs with limited resources felt like walking a tightrope.

As MS, I experienced both successes and failures. Not all ideas worked as I had hoped, but some exceeded expectations. Along the way, I received more bouquets—and brickbats—than I deserved. This journey, however, allowed me to turn several ideas into reality. Modestly, I believe the hospital became more responsive to community needs during my tenure.

At times, I may have been petulant, taciturn, or unreasonably demanding. Yet my colleagues stood by me, even when I faltered. Their support was my bedrock, and I owe them my deepest gratitude.

I did not always perform well, even when conditions were favourable and opportunities were easy. I feared their disappointment, but they accepted my shortcomings with grace. Their support carried me through the toughest times.

Why did I step down? Many have wondered, though few asked. The answer is simple: I was getting stale. It was time to hand over the reins to someone younger, brighter, and full of zeal. I firmly believe this change will benefit MGIMS in its future endeavors. As Tennyson aptly said, “The old order changeth, yielding place to new.” Or as Vijay Merchant, the cricketing legend, once advised, “Retire when people ask why, not when they ask why not.”

What is true in cricket is also true in healthcare.

I feel immense gratitude and respect for the institute where I worked. For years, my colleagues and staff trusted me, overlooked my flaws, and rarely interfered. They stood by me through good times and bad, giving me the freedom to lead.

Reflecting on my MS days, I am reminded of Charles Dickens in A Tale of Two Cities:

“It was the best of times, it was the worst of times; it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness…”

These words capture the highs and lows of my journey perfectly.

This morning, as my colleagues bid me a tearful farewell, their kindness overwhelmed me. I cannot thank them enough for their trust, support, and camaraderie over the years.

What lies ahead? With administrative duties behind me, I plan to focus on teaching and patient care, especially palliative care. I hope to rekindle my passion for research, immerse myself in reading and writing, and spend more time with my family—particularly with Diti, Nivi, and Krit, my grandchildren.

I look forward to this new chapter, hoping it brings clarity, calm, and the time to rediscover myself.