The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has expressed deep grief on the passing away of visionary ophthalmologist and founder of Sankara Nethralaya, Dr. SS Badrinath.
“Deeply saddened by the passing of Dr. SS Badrinath Ji, a visionary, expert in ophthalmology and founder of Sankara Nethralaya. His contributions to eye care and his relentless service to society have left an indelible mark. His work will continue to inspire generations. Condolences to his family and loved ones. Om Shanti.“, PM Modi wrote on his social media.
Deeply saddened by the passing of Dr. SS Badrinath Ji, a visionary, expert in ophthalmology and founder of Sankara Nethralaya. His contributions to eye care and his relentless service to society have left an indelible mark. His work will continue to inspire generations.…
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 21, 2023
Dr. SS Badrinath, the visionary founder and chairman emeritus of Sankara Nethralaya, passed away at the age of 83 on Tuesday. Renowned for establishing one of India’s largest charitable eye hospitals in Chennai in 1978, Dr. Badrinath devoted himself to a noble cause, providing free medical treatment to economically disadvantaged segments of society.
Born in a small Chennai suburb, Sengamedu Srinivasa Badrinath faced the loss of both parents during his teenage years. Utilizing the insurance proceeds from his parents’ demise, he pursued his passion for medical sciences. Beginning his career with internships in various ophthalmology centers in New York, Dr. Badrinath, along with a group of like-minded doctors, founded Sankara Nethralaya as a charitable, not-for-profit eye hospital in 1978, aiming to extend free treatment to the underprivileged.
Sankara Nethralaya, under Dr. Badrinath’s leadership, emerged as a hub of charitable medical services, welcoming around 1200 patients daily and performing 100 free eye surgeries. The institute also plays a crucial role in training aspiring eye specialists through its programs.
Recognizing his significant contributions to society, Dr. SS Badrinath was honored with the Padma Bhushan and Padma Shri awards by the Government of India, the third and fourth highest civilian honors in the country, respectively. His legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched and the enduring impact of Sankara Nethralaya.
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