New Book ‘Much is Misery’ Exposes the Universal Suffering Tied to Materialism and Wealth

Hyderabad, February 13: Acclaimed Chicago-based oncologist Dr. Mohammed Tajammul Hussain has launched his groundbreaking book, Much is Misery – Hope, Healing, and Happiness, at a distinguished event at Nizam Club. Organized by Media Plus Foundation, the launch gathered intellectuals, dignitaries, and literary enthusiasts, igniting a critical discussion on wealth, suffering, and the true essence of happiness.

The event featured an esteemed delegation from Chicago, including Mr. La Shawn Ford, Representative of Chicago, IL, who served as the Chief Guest. In his address, Mr. Ford hailed the book as a necessary reflection on modern society, advocating for its inclusion in academic curricula for its deep exploration of materialism and the human pursuit of fulfillment.

Dr. Hussain, in his keynote speech, shared a profound perspective on the paradox of wealth: while the poor struggle with economic misery, the affluent are often trapped in emotional and existential suffering. He illustrated this through his extensive experience with terminally ill cancer patients, many of whom, despite their immense wealth, found themselves yearning not for luxury, but for the presence and love of their families in their final days. “No amount of riches,” he noted, “could ease the loneliness of those whose wealth once gave them power but not the peace they ultimately sought.”

The 268-page, multi-color book, edited by Dr. Syed Khaled Shahbaaz and published by Media Plus Foundation, is interwoven with thought-provoking illustrations, unpacks the layers of misery—personal, societal, and psychological—caused by the relentless pursuit of material wealth. It challenges the reader to reconsider the role of money in shaping happiness, underscoring the need for balance, gratitude, and human connection as key to a fulfilling life.

A central theme of Much is Misery is the universal nature of suffering. Dr. Hussain bridges the gap between the struggles of the impoverished and the hidden despair of the wealthy, arguing that both extremes of the economic spectrum experience profound unhappiness—one due to the lack of basic necessities and the other due to emotional isolation and an insatiable hunger for more.

Beyond his literary contributions, Dr. Hussain has been a force for equitable healthcare. As the founder of CMMA, a non-profit in Chicago, and a telemedicine center in Hyderabad, he has dedicated himself to extending medical expertise to underserved communities. His initiative pools specialists from the U.S. to provide second opinions to patients in India, reinforcing his belief that access to quality healthcare should not be a privilege reserved for the wealthy.

Earlier, Nawab Nasir Ali Khan, Honorary Consul of Kazakhstan in Hyderabad, Dr Vijay Prabhakar, Chairman GSA Global Eye Magazine, Chicago, Dr Neil Khot, National Chair of the Chicago-based Indian American Business Coalition, Dr Rajiv Kandala, who leads the Healthcare Equity Advisory Council in Chicago congratulated the author while cementing the author’s perspectives on wealth and materialism presented in the book. Former Telangana DG Mr. S.A. Huda (IPS), Member of Legislative Assembly Mr Raj Thakur, Head of Cardiology Osmania General Hospital Dr Imamuddin, former AFMI President Dr. Mohammed Khutbuddin, were also present on this occasion.

The book launch concluded with an engaging discussion and book signing.