What happens when a rational economist is forced to confront what logic can’t solve—grief, ego, and the longing for love?
In this episode, host Mohua is joined by Rajeev Balasubramanyam, whose acclaimed novel Professor Chandra Follows His Bliss traces the journey of a Cambridge economist stumbling his way toward healing and inner peace.
Rajeev reflects on addiction, ego, and identity, and how fiction became a vessel for transformation. From childhood shame to adult spirituality, from Eastern philosophy to Western therapy, this conversation moves between the deeply personal and the universally human.
They explore how satire turned into sincerity, why writing about fathers and broken families can be freeing, and how time at a spiritual fellowship reshaped Rajeev’s ideas of happiness and pain.
If you’ve ever tried to think your way out of heartache—or wondered what it really takes to change—this one’s for you.
Key Topics
Connect with Us
Mohua Chinappa: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mohua-chinappa/
The Literature Lounge: https://www.themohuashow.com/the-literature-lounge/
Connect with Rajeev Balasubramanyam
Rajeev Balasubramanyam: https://x.com/Rajeevbalasu
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Chapters:
00:00 Highlights
00:55 Exploring Bliss and Shame
02:11 Inspiration Behind Professor Chandra
04:11 Settings and Symbolism in the Novel
06:45 Addiction and Family Dynamics
09:11 The Journey to Self-Love
11:38 Confrontation and Ego
13:31 Vulnerability and Forgiveness
16:03 Generational Conflicts and Healing
22:05 Following Bliss and Family Legacy
26:43 Breaking the Cycle of Shame in South Asian Families
22:58 The Connection Between Shame and Violence
30:42 Inner Child Work and Healing from Shame
34:14 Mindfulness and Self-Awareness in Relationships
37:31 Letting Go of Desires and Attachments
40:49 The Ongoing Journey of Personal Growth
43:18 Influential Books and Advice for Young Writers
Disclaimer
The views expressed by our guests are their own. We do not endorse and are not responsible for any views expressed by our guests on our podcast and its associated platforms.
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