Discover a heartfelt conversation between Rashi Gupta and Dr. Raj Lakshmi Darbari over mushroom and cheese sandwiches, exploring storytelling, empathy, and women’s voices. This Christ University Delhi NCR moment blends psychology and literature for a profound reflection on human connection.
In today’s fast-paced world, meaningful conversations often take a backseat to hurried messages and fleeting online interactions. Yet, sometimes, the simplest moments—sharing a sandwich, a warm cup of tea, and an honest exchange—become the most memorable.
On a quiet afternoon at Christ University Delhi NCR, Rashi Gupta, a thoughtful media psychology student, sat down with renowned author and poetess Dr. Raj Lakshmi Darbari. What unfolded was a rare blend of warmth, wisdom, and reflection—seasoned with the casual act of making mushroom and cheese sandwiches.
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The Comfort of Cooking and Conversation
As the conversation began, the two shared laughter over the sandwich preparation. Dr. Darbari gently sautéed mushrooms, stirring in spices while Rasshi toasted the bread slices. The kitchen’s cozy atmosphere seemed to invite openness.
“This simple sandwich,” Dr. Darbari mused, “reminds me how even the smallest acts of creation—whether cooking or writing—are about layering flavors and emotions, patiently building something meaningful.”
Rashi Gupta smiled, “It’s like psychology too, isn’t it? Every experience adds a layer to who we are.”
Writing as a Path to Healing
The talk quickly deepened. Dr. Darbari opened up about how poetry and prose have been her refuge and therapy through life’s challenges.
“Writing allows me to pour out emotions I can’t always speak aloud,” she explained. “It’s a healing process, a way to understand myself and connect with others who might be feeling the same.”
Her words reflected a profound truth: creativity is often inseparable from healing. The act of putting pain and hope on paper becomes a balm—not just for the writer but for readers too.
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Women’s Voices and Social Change
The conversation naturally shifted toward the role of women in society and how storytelling can amplify their voices.
“Women’s stories have been sidelined for too long,” Dr. Darbari said with quiet conviction. “Literature gives us a platform to shine a light on the silent struggles and the immense strength women carry every day.”
Rashi nodded, “And when psychology and literature meet, they can nurture empathy and bring social issues to the forefront in powerful ways.”
Empathy as a Recipe for Connection
Throughout the interview, empathy emerged as the central ingredient—not just in their conversation but in life itself.
“True empathy,” Dr. Darbari said, “means listening with your heart, feeling the other’s pain without judgment, and responding with kindness.”
Rashi Gupta added, “That’s what media psychology teaches us: to understand the human behind the message, beyond surface-level reactions.”
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A Shared Moment to Savor
As the mushroom and cheese sandwiches came together—golden, fragrant, and warm—the conversation lingered on the simple joys that connect us.
“This sandwich is a small story,” Dr. Darbari smiled, “much like a poem or a shared memory. It nourishes not only the body but also the soul.”
Rashi Gupta took a bite and nodded, “It’s true—sometimes the most profound moments happen over the simplest things.”
This candid dialogue between a young student and a seasoned writer reminds us how stories, empathy, and everyday acts of care weave together the fabric of human connection. Whether through a carefully crafted poem or a humble sandwich, creation and conversation nourish us all.
As Dr. Darbari beautifully put it, “In sharing our stories, and even our sandwiches, we share pieces of ourselves—and that is where true connection begins.”
By Nishtha Tripathy, Student, Media Psychology, CHRIST University, Delhi NCR