Mahinder Watsa

Mahinder Watsa (1925 – 28 December 2020) was a renowned Indian sexologist, known for his significant contributions to sex education and counseling in India. He gained widespread recognition for his candid and humorous advice on sexual health, which he dispensed through his column "Ask the Sexpert" in the Mumbai Mirror, a popular daily newspaper. Watsa's work played a crucial role in breaking taboos surrounding sexuality in a conservative society and promoting open discussion on topics often considered private or shameful.

Early Life and Education

Mahinder Watsa was born in 1925 in India. Details about his early life and education are sparse, but it is known that he pursued a career in medicine, specializing in sexology, a field that was not widely recognized in India at the time. His interest in sexual health and education stemmed from a keen understanding of the lack of reliable information and the prevalence of myths surrounding sex in Indian society.

Career

Watsa began his career as a medical practitioner, but his path took a distinctive turn when he started writing about sexual health. In the 1960s, he became a pioneer in sex education in India by conducting workshops and seminars on sexual health for married couples, which was a revolutionary concept at the time.

In 2005, at the age of 80, Watsa started writing the "Ask the Sexpert" column for the Mumbai Mirror. His straightforward and often witty responses to readers' queries about sex made the column immensely popular. Watsa addressed questions ranging from basic inquiries about anatomy and sexual intercourse to more complex issues related to sexual dysfunction, contraception, and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). His advice was lauded for being factual, non-judgmental, and accessible, helping to educate the public on matters of sexual health.

Impact and Legacy

Mahinder Watsa's work had a profound impact on sexual health awareness in India. By demystifying sex and encouraging open conversation, he helped reduce the stigma associated with discussing sexual issues. His efforts contributed to a greater understanding of sexual health and rights, making him a beloved figure among his readers and beyond.

Watsa's approach to sex education also highlighted the importance of combating misinformation and cultural taboos with knowledge and humor. He believed in the power of education to change attitudes towards sex and was a vocal advocate for including comprehensive sex education in the school curriculum.

Death

Mahinder Watsa passed away on 28 December 2020, leaving behind a legacy of pioneering work in sex education and counseling in India. His death was widely mourned, with many paying tribute to his contributions to improving sexual health awareness and breaking down barriers to open discussion about sex in Indian society.

See Also

• Sex education in India
• Sexual health
• Sexology