Shaila Merchant Discusses Her Journey Through Career and Mental Struggles

Shaila Merchant, the managing director at Encore Healthcare, shared her personal and professional experiences on the podcast Her Side of the Story. While she is well-known as the mother-in-law of Anant Ambani, son of India's wealthiest man Mukesh Ambani, Shaila has carved out her unique space within the Indian business realm.

Her career began in the challenging construction industry, where she had to consistently demonstrate her capabilities. She later transitioned into healthcare and pharmaceuticals, eventually co-founding Encore Healthcare alongside her husband, Viren Merchant.

Although she achieved professional milestones, her journey was fraught with challenges. Balancing an ambitious career with personal responsibilities posed significant hurdles. During her podcast interview, she reflected on these obstacles and the toll they took on her well-being.

Merchant spoke candidly about her experiences with self-doubt, revealing that she faced a nervous breakdown in her 30s. “When I was young, I went through a nervous breakdown in my 30s,” she admitted.

In a moment of vulnerability, an aunt's simple question—“Are you okay?”—while she was in Oman prompted Merchant to confront her mental health challenges.

Her aunt suggested yoga as a means to regain her equilibrium, which she credits as transformative. “It may sound unbelievable, but yoga truly changed my life. Practicing three times a day allowed me to find balance again,” she recounted.

Today, Shaila Merchant advocates for yoga and exercise, emphasizing their benefits for mental well-being. She believes that it's never too late to incorporate physical activity into one's life, which is vital for mental and emotional stability, regardless of age.

“We should engage in some form of exercise at any age; that is essential,” stressed Merchant, underscoring self-care amidst professional endeavors.

Shaila's personal and professional lives intersect closely. Alongside her husband Viren, she raises two daughters, Anjali and Radhika. Radhika's marriage to Anant Ambani has brought added public attention to the family.

Despite the media spotlight, Shaila has established herself as a respected business leader, with vast experience in construction, pharmaceuticals, and corporate governance. She currently serves on various boards, continuing to lend her voice to the industries she is passionate about.

Her candid discussions regarding mental health challenges have ignited impactful conversations about the pressures faced by women in high-stakes careers. By sharing her story, Shaila Merchant emphasizes the value of acknowledging mental health issues and seeking support, whether that comes from family guidance, professional help, or lifestyle modifications such as yoga and exercise.

In a time when mental wellness is increasingly discussed, Merchant's openness is both motivating and relatable. It highlights the need for both professional success and personal happiness to coexist and that strength can often emerge from confronting vulnerabilities.

Shaila Merchant's journey serves as an inspiring tale of resilience, learning, and development. From navigating male-dominated fields to advocating for mental health awareness, her legacy extends beyond sheer business successes. Her narrative resonates with many balancing career aspirations and personal obligations, reminding us that simple practices like yoga can lead to profound changes.