TIME MAGAZINE - EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH 'MR. GENESIS': THE SUPERHERO WHO SHAPED A WORLD
BY ELENA MARTINEZ, JANUARY 10, 2022
In a modest café in Mumbai, amidst the bustling sounds of the city, sits Raj Chakravarti, known to the world as 'Mr. Genesis'. As he sips chai, his demeanor is calm, a stark contrast to the powerful and dynamic presence he's known for around the globe. Raj, the man who is often credited as the first superhero, celebrates his 40th birthday this January.
Born in the remote village of Badrika, India, Raj's life changed forever on March 10th, 1985. It was on this day, during a devastating flood, that he experienced the first reported Activation Event. The young Raj, in a desperate attempt to save his own life, tossed and turned in the flood, found he could control the very waters that threatened to destroy it. This event not only saved Badrika but also marked the beginning of a new era in human history.
Raj grew up in a humble environment, surrounded by the quiet landscapes of Badrika. His childhood was filled with stories of heroes and legends, a common thread in the tapestry of rural Indian life. "I always believed in doing the right thing, in helping others. It's what my parents taught me," Raj shares, reflecting on his upbringing.
The day of his Activation, March 10th, 1985, is etched into the collective memory of Badrika. Heavy monsoons had led to the worst flood in decades, and Raj, then just a boy, found himself amidst rising waters, with his village on the brink of devastation. In what he describes as a moment of sheer instinct, Raj reached out to the waters, and to everyone's astonishment, they obeyed. He guided the floodwaters away, saving countless lives. The village affectionately nicknamed him 'Krishna' after the deity known for divine playfulness and miracles.
News of Raj's feat spread like wildfire, capturing the imagination of a nation and soon, the world. He was among the first individuals to demonstrate superhuman abilities publicly. In the following years, Raj honed his skills, learning the extents and limitations of his power - a form of selective hydrokinesis that allowed him to control large volumes of fast-moving water.
His early years as a superhero were marked by daring rescues and interventions in natural disasters. From floods in Bangladesh to hurricanes in the Caribbean, 'Mr. Genesis' became a symbol of hope and a testament to the potential of superhuman abilities to aid humanity.
As Raj matured, his focus shifted from emergency interventions to long-term solutions. "I realized that saving lives in the moment wasn't enough. I wanted to prevent these disasters, to use my abilities for sustainable change," he explains.
Raj began collaborating with environmental scientists and engineers, applying his powers in innovative geoengineering projects. He played a pivotal role in developing flood prevention systems in cities like Venice and Mumbai, and in projects aimed at mitigating the effects of rising sea levels.
Now in his 40s, Raj is a figure of global influence, a pioneer in the integration of superhuman abilities with environmental conservation. Despite his fame, he remains grounded, often returning to Badrika to mentor young superhumans and support his community.
Elena Martinez (EM): Raj, you've been a global symbol of hope and heroism for decades. Yet, you've often steered clear of the traditional superhero-villain dynamic. Can you share your thoughts on this?
Raj Chakravarti (RC): Absolutely, Elena. From the beginning, my focus has been on saving lives and helping people. I've always believed that my abilities were meant for something greater than just fighting. While I respect those who take on villains, my path was different. It was about prevention, protection, and creating a safer world.
EM: Did this approach ever put you at odds with other superhumans or the public's expectation of a superhero?
RC: It did, at times. There were expectations to conform to the typical superhero mold, but I knew my strengths and limitations. I never saw myself as a fighter or a warrior. My battles were against natural disasters, not people. And I think, over time, people began to appreciate that there's more than one way to be a hero.
EM: You mentioned steering clear of violence. How did you manage to avoid conflicts with supervillains who might have seen you as a target?
RC: It wasn't always easy. There were instances where supervillains tried to draw me into conflicts, perhaps to make a statement or to challenge my non-violent stance. But I always found ways to de-escalate situations or to outmaneuver them without resorting to violence. My goal was to protect people, not to engage in battles for the sake of it.
EM: And yet, you've had a profound impact. Your work in geoengineering and environmental conservation has been groundbreaking. What motivated this shift from immediate rescue to long-term environmental solutions?
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RC: As I grew older, my perspective broadened. I started thinking about the root causes of the disasters I was responding to. Climate change, rising sea levels, deforestation – these were the real enemies. And they required a different approach, a more strategic and long-term solution. That's when I began collaborating with scientists and engineers, focusing on projects that could prevent or mitigate these environmental threats.
EM: That's a significant shift. How do you see the role of superhumans in addressing global challenges like climate change?
RC: Superhumans have extraordinary abilities, but with that comes great responsibility. We have the power to effect change on a massive scale, and we should use it to address the greatest challenges facing our world. It's not just about fighting villains; it's about fighting for a better future.
EM: Looking back, do you have any regrets or things you wish you'd done differently?
RC: I've always tried to do what felt right, to use my abilities in the best way I knew how. Of course, there were challenges and moments of doubt, but I don't believe in dwelling on regrets. What's important is to learn, grow, and keep moving forward.
EM: Are there any messages you might have for the younger generation of superhumans?
RC: My message is simple: understand your power, find your purpose, and use it to make a positive difference in the world. It's not about the glory or the fame; it's about what you do with the gifts you've been given. And always remember, being a hero is not about fighting – it's about helping. There's more you can do than beating up thugs!
EM: Moving along a bit, your love for nature and commitment to environmental conservation is evident. How do you view the relationship between superhumans and the natural world?
RC: Elena, I believe superhumans have a unique opportunity to harmonize with nature. We're part of this world, and our abilities can help us understand and protect it better. For me, it's about working with nature, not against it. It's a symbiotic relationship where we must use our powers to support the Earth's balance.
EM: Can you tell us about some of your latest projects, especially those involving seawalls and ocean breakers?
RC: Certainly. One of the projects I'm most excited about is in Indonesia. We're constructing a series of advanced seawalls to protect against rising sea levels and tsunamis. My role involves using hydrokinesis to redirect large water masses, creating space for construction without disturbing marine ecosystems. It's a delicate task, requiring precision and a deep understanding of ocean dynamics.
EM: That sounds like a monumental effort. How do these projects impact the local communities?
RC: These projects are life-changing for coastal communities. They offer protection and security but also bring new opportunities for sustainable development. We involve local communities in every step, ensuring that these initiatives support their needs and respect their way of life.
EM: With such impactful work, how do you balance your personal life and these demanding projects?
RC: It's about finding that equilibrium. I make time for myself, for meditation, and for reconnecting with my roots in Badrika. It's essential to stay grounded and to remember why we do what we do. For me, it's always been about making a positive impact, large or small.
EM: As you celebrate your 40th birthday, readers everywhere have been dying to know about the life and times of the world's first superhero. Is there anything about your personal life that you'd be comfortable telling us?
RC: Of course, Elena. Turning 40 has been a time of reflection for me. I understand that I will not be here forever, and I've been taking time in between projects to take time for me. My personal projects, as I like to call them.
EM: Can you tell us a bit about your family and how they've influenced your journey?
RC: My family has been my rock. My parents, who still live in Badrika, taught me the values of humility and service. I visit them as often as I can. They keep me grounded and remind me of where I came from. And then there's my sister, Anjali. She's a brilliant environmental lawyer. We've worked together on several projects, and she's been a huge support in my advocacy efforts.
EM: What about your personal relationships? Is there someone special in your life?
RC: [Laughs] That's the question I get asked a lot. Yes, there is someone special. Her name is Meera. We met during a project in the Sundarbans. She's a wildlife biologist, and our shared passion for environmental conservation brought us together. We've been in a relationship for about five years now. She's an incredible person, fiercely independent, and deeply committed to her work.
EM: That sounds wonderful. How do you balance your demanding role with your personal life?
RC: It's not always easy, but Meera understands the demands of my work. We both have careers that require a lot of us, but we make it work. We try to find time for each other, be it in small everyday moments or in shared adventures. Balance is key, and we both respect each other's passions and commitments.
EM: As you look to the future, what are your hopes and plans, both personally and professionally?
RC: Professionally, I want to continue my work in environmental conservation, maybe even expand into education and advocacy. I feel there's a lot more to be accomplished, especially in educating the younger generation about climate change and sustainability. Personally, I'm looking forward to spending more time with Meera and my family. Maybe even start a family of my own soon. I've always believed that to bring change in the world, you have to nurture change at home first.
EM: And finally, what's the legacy you hope to leave behind?
RC: I hope to be remembered as someone who used his abilities for the greater good, who stood for something beyond himself. I want to inspire others, not just superhumans, but every individual, to contribute to making our world a better place. That, to me, would be a legacy worth leaving.
EM: Thank you, Raj, for this insightful conversation. Your journey is not just extraordinary; it's a testament to the power of purpose and the impact one individual can have on the world.
RC: Thank you, Elena. It's been a pleasure.