The Asiatic Society of Mumbai Literary Club

Online Talk by Dr. Jaideep Gogtay on Caring for Life: The Cipla Story since 1935

Wednesday 16th June 2021 at 6 pm

The Literary Club of the Asiatic Society of Mumbai takes pleasure in inviting you for a talk by Dr. Jaideep Gogtay on “Caring for Life: the Cipla Story since 1935“ authored by Tulsi Vatsal.

As the world grapples with the Covid -19 crisis, it is worthwhile to recall the deadly AIDS pandemic, which by the year 2000 had infected 36 million people worldwide and claimed the lives of nearly 22 million, mainly because the treatment was too expensive. It was at this critical juncture that the Indian pharmaceutical company Cipla made its groundbreaking offer of antiretroviral drugs at “1$ a day“ in 2001, thus opening up a whole new front in the battle for affordable HIV/AIDS medicines around the world, saving the lives of millions.

The book traces the evolution of the company from its humble beginnings in a rented bungalow in the heart of Bombay to the significant global player that it has become today. The story unfolds against the backdrop of tumultuous events across the world and in India, a people’s struggle for indépendance and the growth of a nation. It is a story of hopes and dreams, of challenges and successes.

Dr.Jaideep Gogtay holds a degree in pharmacology and is the Medical Services Head at Cipla. He will talk about the history of epidemics and the Cipla story.

Tulsi Vatsal is an independent researcher and writer. She has authored a number of books on Indian history and culture.

We welcome you to join us at this virtual talk on Wednesday 16th June.

Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85484364535?pwd=Q0pvYXdrbzgrczZ3WG9PUDRDYkVWdz09

Meeting ID: 854 8436 4535
Passcode: 188199