C. Kumarbabu was more than a psychiatrist: he was a philosopher in practice, a teacher by instinct, and a seeker at heart. His career, which spanned decades, was defined by his pioneering work in integrating scientific meditation with psychiatric treatment. A bridge between science and spirituality, Dr. Kumarbabu connected the intellectual rigor of the West with the wisdom of the East, creating a harmonious blend of intellect and intuition.
Affiliated with the Institute of Mental Health in Kilpauk, Chennai, Dr. Kumarbabu reshaped the landscape of mental healthcare. His impact continues to be felt in the over 25,000 individuals he personally trained in meditation for emotional well-being and stress management, leaving behind a legacy that transcends time.
What truly set him apart was his empowering approach to counseling. As he often said, “Transformation arises not from advice, but from insight.” Dr. Kumarbabu didn’t impose changes; instead, he held up a mirror, guiding his students to discover their own paths to transformation.
‘Always a teacher’
Bhagyalakshmi, a meditation student since 1996, recalls, “He was always a teacher, finding something to teach in every moment. Even in casual conversations, he could discuss anything—from classical philosophy to quantum physics—with ease. His intelligence and humor kept every room alive with laughter and learning.”
Dr. Kumarbabu’s spiritual teachings were both profound and practical, making abstract concepts accessible. Haridas Menon, a retired metallurgist, shares, “I’ve been a fan of his spiritual lectures for 35 years. He blended science, spirituality, religion, and mental health effortlessly. His punctuality was legendary, and his brilliance was as much in his conduct as in his content.”
Dr. Kumarbabu’s meditation sessions were about exploration, not control. “He never policed our thoughts,” says Vijayalakshmi, another long-time student. “He encouraged us to observe them without attachment. His guidance inspired a deep transformation in me—what words rarely can. I went from being angry to calm and aware. Even my daughter found clarity after just three sessions.”
A legendary memory
Dr. Kumarbabu’s memory was legendary—not for mere recall, but for its ability to connect the past with the present. “He could recite long film monologues and immediately link them to our lives,” says Ms. Vijayalakshmi. “His memory bridged knowledge to the moment, making his teachings come alive.”
For Senthil Kumar, an IT professional from Chennai, a chance visit to a meditation class led to a life-changing experience. “I came out of curiosity, but stayed because everything was so practical and relatab-le. No mysticism, just real talk. He made meditation accessible and linked great masters and scriptures to everyday struggles.”
Dr. Kumarbabu’s ability to balance reverence with relevance was a hallmark of his approach. Rooted in Eastern wisdom yet respecting the scientific rigor of the West, he integrated both to offer a holistic, sustainable vision of wellness.
Training in psychology
Beyond his clinical expertise, Dr. Kumarbabu was a gifted mentor and educator. He trained countless social workers, police officers, and other stakeholders in child and adolescent psychology, equipping them to work meaningfully with children in distress. His approach was always rooted in empathy and insight, placing the child at the center of care and protection.
Dr. Kumarbabu was also a cherished faculty member of the Centre for Social Initiative and Management (CSIM) since its inception. His counseling sessions were more than classes; they were heartfelt conversations that opened minds and hearts. Generations of CSIM students benefited from his gentle guidance, deep understanding of human emotions, and unwavering belief in the power of listening and healing.
A significant part of Dr. Kumarbabu’s journey was the unwavering support and shared commitment to social causes by his beloved wife, Girija Kumarbabu, herself a committed social worker involved in a number of outreach initiatives. Together, they inspired countless individuals in their community, demonstrating a shared dedication to improving the lives of others. Mrs. Kumarbabu’s compassion and dedication to social work have been as integral to their mission as Dr. Kumarbabu’s own contributions. The couple’s collective work continues to be a source of inspiration, reminding us all of the profound impact of service and care in shaping a compassionate society.
Dr. Kumarbabu’s legacy endures, not just in the minds he helped heal, but in the hearts he awakened. Through his teachings, he showed us that peace begins within—and that in stillness, we often find our greatest strength.
(Shanmuga Priya is a freelance writer and has been associated with CSIM’s publication Conversations Today since 2013. [email protected])
Published – April 29, 2025 01:24 pm IST