I am HIV Positive, So What?

A human tale of InspirationGive the reader a strong message of positivity, determination, strong will and self respect.Jayanta Kalita is a Delhi-based media professional, but his heart lies in his native Northeast. Currently a Senior Assistant Editor with The Times of India, he was associated with a number of media organisations in the past, including Mail Today and Hindustan Times as well wire agency IANS. He is one of the founding editors of the now-defunct regional English daily, Seven Sisters Post. An MA in English literature from the University of Delhi, Kalita is an alumnus of the prestigious Asian College of Journalism in Chennai. He has varied interests ranging from peace and conflict studies, environment and health to politics and literature.Until December 15, 2007, Khundrakpam Pradipkumar Singh was nobody. The very next day he was known across his state as 'Mr Manipur'. Pradip's incredible story of how an HIV-positive person mended his failing health, overcame psychological trauma, fought stigma and discrimination to become an international bodybuilding champion is told in the pages of this book. Like legendary basketball player Magic Johnson, Pradip too disclosed his HIV status through the media, not giving a damn about society's shocked reaction. However, there is something unique in Pradip's story. While Johnson called it quits after being diagnosed with HIV, Pradip remained undaunted in the face of all odds. He was determined to excel in his chosen field despite warnings from doctors and adverse comments from society. And he went on to win several medals and titles, defeating the virus in his body. Pradip's extraordinary courage and sheer determination caught everyone by surprise. He became a role model for people living with HIV in India and other parts of the globe. He was made Brand Ambassador for HIV/AIDS by the Manipur State AIDS Control Society and was roped in by the India chapter of a global non-profit to lead a pan-India HIV awareness campaign from Delhi. Pradip also took up the cudgels to sensitise people to the ill-effects of drug abuse, to which Manipur is the biggest victim in Northeast India. Given the fact that he contracted the 'deadly virus' through sharing of needles, he sincerely appeals to youngsters to say no to drugs. Pradip has been living with HIV for more than 15 years and continues to be unbelievably strong in mind and body. A true iconoclast, Pradip never gets tired of saying: 'HIV does not kill people, it's society that kills HIV positive people.The book is about a man who, by his sheer determination and will power, was able to overcome the deadly disease like HIV and become a role model for thousands of people who are afflicted with it.