Padmashri Dr Mukesh Batra spoke about the growing impact of digital addiction and toxic relationships at the Kolkata launch of TOXIC , his book co-authored with Swami Shailendra Saraswati, Osho’s younger brother. The event brought together members of the city’s creative and literary circles, with actor Debolina Dutta as chief guest, Falaque Rashid Roy moderating the conversation and Anuja Roy attending as guest of honour.
TOXIC opens up that conversation in a very accessible way,” she said. Actor Debolina Dutta reflected on the emotional and mental impact of what people consume in their everyday lives. “As actors and as audiences, we are constantly participating in a culture that shapes how we see ourselves, our relationships and the world around us. We need to ask what we are consuming emotionally and mentally, not just physically. The evening concluded with a book-signing session, where Dr Batra interacted with readers and guests. Looking for trusted parenting advice? Follow TOI Parenting Circle on Instagram for expert guidance, relatable stories, and practical tips delivered every day.
“Toxicity today isn’t just what enters our bloodstream, but what enters our bandwidth,” he said, pointing to the increasingly compulsive relationship people share with their screens. He also spoke about the emotional toll of toxic relationships, saying the book attempts to address these and several other forms of toxicity in contemporary life. Speaking at the event, Dr Batra described digital dependency and unhealthy relationships as two of the less visible forms of toxicity affecting people today.