Dr Bhumika Gala Has 7 PhDs And She Doesn't Plan To Stop Anytime Soon

Dr Bhumika Gala grew up getting bullied for her complexion and weight. She often faced flak for her appearance but, along the way, she also realised that it didn't matter. Her grandma and grandpa's teachings led her to aim big for herself and while they're not present anymore, their influence on her remains as she moves forward in pursuit of her dreams.

In this conversation with SheThePeople, Dr Bhumika Gala recalls her childhood memories, how challenges led her to focus on her strengths and build them into skills, and what gives wings to her successful streak of PhDs.

Dr Bhumika Gala Story

"I was three when Dadi was diagnosed with cancer. We were really close so this news made me sad and as a kid, I had no control over my emotions. Ma and Papa had to be with her all the time so I learnt how to stay on my own at a very young age.

All these thoughts were taking a toll on me so Maa taught me to meditate. It was such a fun experience that I wanted to explore and my love for discovering new things grew. My parents encouraged me to read more and more books so gradually it became a habit. I can't remember when I fell in love with knowledge. I developed a curiosity to learn about everything. Since I had an inclination towards meditation, I started gathering knowledge about reiki, numerology and everything that books could teach. Though I had a hectic schedule with school and self-learning, I was enjoying every bit of my life. This was a beginning for me.

I was an above-average kid but little did I know my plump body, dark complexion and ambitious mind would bring me criticism. As supportive and outgoing as my family was; the people around me were the exact opposites. I was often bullied for my complexion and weight. My teacher once said, 'I would distribute sweets if she is able to graduate every in life!' I still remember I had hugged Maa back home and she had just said, 'We all believe in you! Daddu said, 'Muhe iski chinta nahi, ye sab karlegi!' Since that day, it has never bothered me what people say. Along the way, I met the love of my life Apoorv. We became friends when I was 13 and he was 15 and we started dating at 18 and 21.

Growing up, Maa helped me to do various international certifications. So, by the time I turned 19, I had my 1st PhD. It was my biggest achievement and my family and friends were really proud of me.

Amidst all this, we found out that Daadu too had cancer. I was heartbroken. So, Apoorv and I decided to tie the knot. People warned me that I was making a mistake but I have never regretted that decision. When I got my PhD from OXFORD; my mother-in-law and Maa both came. Unfortunately, we lost Daadu this year, but his love will follow me. I feel life is too short to do one thing at a time, so today I have 7 PhDs and don't plan to stop anytime soon!"

Interviewed by Bhavika Mittal, Team SheThePeople

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