Author: Urmi Bhattacharjee
Publication: Tehelka
Date: July 30, 2011
URL: http://www.tehelka.com/story_main50.asp?filename=Ne300711INSPIRATIONS.asp
Introduction: 'I get the addicts to read up
a lot of Hindu and Buddhist philosophy as well'
Going cold turkey on an addiction can be exasperating.
Vishwajit, a Manipuri youth from Imphal, knows how to wean addicts away from
mind-altering substances - body-building. His 'Animal Gym' at Khoyathong in
Imphal, has turned into a rehab for many. It has more than 300 members, some
of whom are former drug addicts, others still recovering. A student of former
Mr India Maipak Sharma, Vishwajit started his own centre after winning the
inter-college body-building competition. He believes that a sound mind is
as important as a fit body: " I meditate a lot and read extensively on
Hindu and Buddhist philosophy. I get the addicts to read and they find it
very helpful." P Bijon Singh, a former addict, says, "I sank into
depression because I did not have a job despite an engineering degree. I got
hooked to drugs. Animal Gym has given me a new life. Now, I give private tuitions
for a living and want to become a body-building champ". For the parents
of the addicts, Vishwajit is a godsend. One such grateful father who didn't
wish to be identified says, "Vishwajit motivated my son to take up sports
and body-building and now he is better." Till date, this gym-owner can
proudly claim to have helped at least 15 young boys come out of addiction.
Vishwajit can be contacted at +91 - 98089337487
