n this episode, host George Abraham sits down with Avichal Bhatnagar, a visually impaired professor of English at Guru Nanak Dev Khalsa College, Delhi University. Avichal shares his journey of becoming an academic, transitioning from his initial dream of joining the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) to discovering his passion for teaching. He discusses the challenges he faced as a visually impaired student and professor, and how he navigated the academic landscape to achieve success. Avichal's story is a powerful testament to resilience and determination. He shares insights into the academic process, including the qualifications required to become a professor at Delhi University, and his experience in managing a classroom as a visually impaired educator. The conversation touches upon how Avichal prepares his lectures, manages attendance, evaluates exams, and uses technology to enhance his teaching. He also reflects on his lifelong love of reading and why he believes that books are irreplaceable when it comes to deep learning. Beyond his professional life, Avichal discusses the importance of social inclusion for people with visual impairments, his personal experience of forming friendships across diverse groups, and his approach to maintaining an inclusive social circle. He also talks about his hobbies, which include reading detective fiction, listening to music, and spending quality time with friends. This episode offers a blend of practical advice, personal reflection, and a broader perspective on how visually impaired individuals can pursue fulfilling careers in education. Show Notes: Avichal’s Academic Journey: Initial dream of joining the IAS through UPSC. Shift towards teaching after realizing the challenges for visually impaired candidates in civil services. Academic qualifications: Master's in English, UGC NET, MPhil, and currently pursuing PhD. Path to securing a teaching position at Delhi University. Challenges as a Visually Impaired Professor: Managing a classroom without visual cues: Handling attendance, monitoring student engagement, and navigating classroom dynamics. Use of technology: SmartProf app for attendance and digital assessments for evaluating students. Evaluating exams with the help of readers and digital submissions for internal assessments. Teaching Philosophy and Student Interaction: Importance of forming a bond with students and creating a positive classroom environment. Encouraging students to participate and overcoming their fear of public speaking. Avichal’s approach to teaching literature without heavy reliance on the blackboard, focusing instead on deep understanding and discussion. Importance of Reading Books: Avichal’s belief in the irreplaceable value of reading primary texts, especially for English literature students. Concerns about the trend of relying on summaries, YouTube videos, and adaptations like movies and web series instead of reading books. Avichal's recommendations for students: starting with canonical writers like William Shakespeare, Romantic poets, and Indian writers like Nissim Ezekiel. Social Inclusion and Networking: Avichal's experience with forming and sustaining friendships across various educational institutions. The significance of being social and maintaining an inclusive approach to foster understanding and support. Personal Interests and Relaxation: Hobbies: Listening to music, learning music, reading detective fiction, watching YouTube videos, and socializing with friends. The importance of relaxation and pursuing hobbies as part of a balanced life for visually impaired individuals. Closing Thoughts: Avichal’s reflections on his journey and advice for others with visual impairments. George Abraham thanks Avichal for sharing his experiences and insights. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in education, disability inclusion, and the lived experiences of vi