Bhakti Chalak

Dr. Sabiha Inamdar’s journey of becoming one of the leading sex and relationship coaches in India has been full of challenges. Born into a conventional Muslim family in Maharashtra, in a society where open discussions about sexual health and intimate relationships remain largely taboo. Her work stands as nothing short of revolutionary.

"Jism ki baat nahin, rooh tak jaana hai…" (It's not about the body; it's about reaching the soul…) says 48-year-old Dr Inamdar.

Dr. Inamdar says that her marriage fundamentally shaped her approach to sex and relationship coaching.

She explains, "When I was practicing medicine in Pune, my friends started getting married. I was also in my mid-twenties and wanted to marry. All I knew about marriage then was that it was just a ceremony.”

Her marriage to Ali transformed her life. She had to shoulder new duties and responsibilities. “One of these, I mistakenly believed, was sex,” she says.

Despite being a doctor, I didn't truly understand what sex entailed. I viewed it merely as an act. My initial understanding was that becoming a mother was my primary duty, and only after having a child would marital life be truly successful.

“It was ten years after my daughter was born that a profound realization dawned on me: sex isn't simply an act, but a deeply expressive and active language of love. It's a form of intimacy, and I began to approach the subject with profound seriousness."

Dr. Inamdar’s distinction lies in her remarkable ability to demystify complex subjects, creating a truly comfortable and open space for dialogue.

She compassionately guides countless couples through their relationship challenges from 'Dr. Sabiha Coaching & Consulting (DSCC) clinic.

Dr. Sahiba Inamdar speaking after receiving an award

Her specialized training in Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) enabled her to grasp emotional subtleties within couples and empower individuals to discuss taboo topics.

Navigating marriage is full of challenges: balancing emotions, sharing joys and sorrows, nurturing family dynamics, and embracing shared responsibilities. For a partnership to genuinely flourish, cultivating a deep emotional connection between spouses is paramount.

Dr. Inamdar wholeheartedly attributes her remarkable journey to becoming a sex coach to her husband's unyielding encouragement.

She says, "When I introduce myself as 'Dr. Sabiha, Sex Coach,' many people's eyebrows rise. So, I often simplify it, introducing myself merely as 'Dr. Sabiha.' But my husband once pointed out, 'If I can introduce myself as a Civil Engineer without hesitation, why should you shy from calling yourself a Sex Coach?' From the moment I chose this unconventional field until today, Ali has been my steadfast supporter."

As a woman, and notably, a Muslim woman, Dr. Inamdar has faced considerable criticism and social media trolling in her profession.

Yet, she has fearlessly championed open conversations about sexual education and mental well-being. Dr. Inamdar quotes Urdu poet Shehpar Machlishehri: "Fanoos bankar jiski hifazat hawa kare, woh shama kya bujhe jise raushan Khuda kare." (How can a lamp whose flame is protected by the wind, and lit by God, ever extinguish?). I recite this often because I frequently encounter criticism in this line of work."

She says, "However, my father always had unwavering faith in my decisions and consistently strengthened my resolve. Whenever I face criticism, one of his sayings invariably comes to mind: 'One who tolerates injustice is a greater criminal than the one who perpetrates it.'

My father worked in the Forest Department; his education broadened his perspectives significantly. He instilled practical wisdom in the family of three siblings to ensure they became self-reliant. That's why, once I make a decision, I stick to it firmly. No matter how many obstacles come, I do not waver."

Today, Dr. Inamdar is performing vital social work through her profession. She connects with individuals through personalized coaching sessions, engages broader audiences through public lectures, and leads insightful workshops.

Dr. Sabiha Inamdar with her parents

Her impactful work extends far beyond mere problem-solving; it profoundly aims to transform how people perceive and experience themselves and their partners, fostering deeper understanding and connection.

In our society, conversations on sexual health are still largely considered taboo. In such an environment, Dr. Inamdar has bravely stepped forward, bringing these crucial topics into the mainstream.

Her work isn't just about offering medical advice; she actively dismantles widespread misconceptions, empowering people to speak about these sensitive subjects without hesitation.

On the necessity of sex education, Dr. Sabiha states, "When children reach puberty, they are often taught only what 'not to do.' But there's a glaring absence of conversation about the changing emotions that naturally accompany these physical transformations.

Dr. Sabiha Inamdar with her husband and daughter

Consequently, children often develop many misguided assumptions about sex because they don't grasp the crucial difference between a physical act and its emotional dimension. “This has been my consistent observation throughout my career," she says.

Dr. Sabiha is passionately striving to bring social acceptance to what has long been a sensitive topic. She adds, "There should be many more lectures on sex in society; open discussions are crucial. People need to understand that sexual education isn't limited to physical relations; it's intricately connected to emotional and mental well-being.”

Her lectures on these topics have consistently fostered a more positive outlook on sexuality among people, especially guiding the younger generation with accurate and healthy information about sexuality and relationships.

Dr. Inamdar not only presents a scientific perspective on sexual health but also profoundly illuminates the emotional and mental facets of relationships.

Despite facing countless obstacles, she has resolutely chosen not to retreat. "No matter how many difficulties arise, I will continue my work relentlessly. I want to continue guiding couples until my very final moment."

Dr. Inamdar has significantly expanded her reach through online platforms, conducting impactful webinars and virtual coaching sessions that connect Indian communities both domestically and abroad.

She has cultivated thousands of dedicated followers on platforms like YouTube and Instagram. She openly contributes to numerous Marathi podcasts. Through these diverse mediums, she creatively organizes short educational videos, engaging question and answer, and interactive live sessions.

Dr. Inamdar's work is driving positive societal change. By prioritizing sexual and emotional well-being, she has opened entirely new dimensions in relationship communication.

Her persistent efforts are steadily reducing public discomfort surrounding sex. Crucially, her work empowers women, in particular, to confidently express their feelings and needs.

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Challenging deep-seated social taboos, she is steering the conversation about sexuality towards a normal and positive mindset, truly emerging as a changemaker for a more understanding, compassionate, and open society.