Kim Jagtiani – a name synonymous with adventure, elegance, and audacity. I remember interviewing her for the cover of one of India’s foremost women’s magazines, SAVVY magazine, where she shone as a beacon of inspiration for women everywhere. With an untamed love for the world, Kim was the epitome of wanderlust – bold, daring, and always game for the next great experience. Whether as a vivacious VJ, the globe-trotting host of the finest travel shows, or Discovery’s sharp science journalist, she had the world at her feet. But true to her intrepid spirit, Kim wasn’t one to be confined by the glitz and glam of the media spotlight.

At the age of 34, after a fulfilling career and marriage to restaurateur Rohan Gupta, Kim made a bold move few would dare to attempt. She traded in her red-carpet heels for textbooks and immersed herself in the world of academia at the prestigious University of Toronto. Her quest for knowledge led her back to India, where she interned at psychology clinics, honing her skills in a completely new arena.

Today, Kim is a highly respected clinical psychologist at one of the country’s leading clinics, seamlessly blending empathy and intellect in her new role. She hasn’t lost her creative touch, either – her motivational reels on Gaana are a testament to her enduring ability to inspire. Kim’s journey is a masterclass in reinvention, proving that style, substance, and a fearless pursuit of passion can create a life as richly layered as any luxury experience.

In this exclusive interview with Sumita Chakraborty, Editor-in-Chief, TheGlitz, Kim opens up about her life-changing decision, her time at university, balancing marriage and a career, her work as a counselling psychologist and Psychotherapist, and her mission at Ganaa, a mental health and wellness website.

Kim is indeed truly the embodiment of resilience and reinvention, making her our TheGlitz Hero of 2024.

Over To Kim

You took a major leap and left behind a successful career to study at a university. What motivated you to make this decision?

Kim: The decision to leave everything behind wasn’t an easy one, but it was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Going back to school at 34 felt like a new adventure for me. I didn’t go back because I “had” to, I went back because I “wanted” to. I was happy to learn that mature students have an extra incentive to perform well. Right from the start, I decided to give every class and assignment 100 percent effort. Hopefully, all that hard work has paid off!

You spent six years abroad for your studies. How did you manage to stay connected with your life back home, especially with your marriage?

Kim: It was definitely hard to stay connected while I was away, but marriage is a continuous work-in-progress. In the last three years, we’ve made a conscious effort to repair and reset our relationship. I truly believe that when we make deliberate choices, we can improve any relationship, no matter the challenges.

What was it like to leave behind everything and embark on a new life as a student?

Kim: It was transformative and challenging at the same time. When you embark on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth, significant changes happen both internally and externally. This was my first step toward self-improvement. Yes, I missed parts of my former life, but I was so grateful for the opportunity to start fresh, gain new skills, and build resilience. Embracing change was always at the forefront of my mind.

You had an impressive career in the Indian film and television industry before heading back to school. How do you reflect on your 15 years in that industry?

Kim: I feel incredibly fortunate to have had 15 years in such a competitive industry, where even one year isn’t guaranteed. I worked on a broad range of TV programs – youth, music, culture, history, science, travel, and adventure. Hosting these shows was an absolute joy! Interestingly, the process of making these programs helped me understand human behaviour, especially how technology and media shape it. This understanding set me up for my double major in psychology and anthropology.

Out of all your experiences, which one stands out as a career-defining moment for you?

Kim: Hosting Lakme India Fashion Week in 2001 for Channel [V] is a memory I’ll always cherish. It was a defining moment for me, not only in terms of my career but also because I made beautiful, life-long friendships with incredibly talented and kind people. A close second would be co-hosting Discovery Channel’s flagship science show, Daily Planet, as a science journalist.

You’re now a clinical and counseling psychologist. How has this transition been for you, and what’s it like working at the clinic?

Kim: The transition has been incredibly fulfilling. I’ve been working at our clinic for the last three years, and we see about 75 patients a day on average. It’s meaningful work – helping people improve their well-being and alleviate distress. I feel very lucky to be in a position where I can make a difference in people’s lives.

Tell us about Ganaa and its mission. How did you get involved?

Kim: Ganaa is a Sanskrit word that means group or community. In Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva’s group of attendants was also called Ganaa. The founder of our mental health rehabilitation centers and clinics, Dr. Rohit Garg, envisioned Ganaa as a community dedicated to increasing awareness about mental health and changing how society views it. I’m proud to be part of this movement, helping people heal both mind and heart.

What drives you in your current work as a psychologist?

Kim: For me, this is very meaningful work. I’m grateful to have the opportunity to serve others and help them on their journey toward better mental health. Every day brings new challenges, but it’s a privilege to help people live healthier, more fulfilling lives.

You’re not just practicing psychology, but you’re also continuing to learn. What’s next for you academically?

Kim: It’s always important to stay updated with current research and developments in the field of mental health. I hope to work toward my doctorate one day. It’s never too late to combat ageism in higher education, and I want to continue learning and growing in this field.

You’re juggling a busy schedule at the clinic while also exploring your interest in writing. How do you balance it all?

Kim: It can be a challenge, but I make time for what I’m passionate about. Writing about mental health is something I’m deeply interested in, and I hope to explore topics that help people understand and take better care of their minds. It’s all about making time for what truly matters.