Transforming Lives: In the bustling city of Hyderabad, Dr. Ravinder Chowkidar, a 41-year-old general and laparoscopic surgeon, is making significant strides not just in medicine but also in social service. As an assistant professor of general surgery at a government medical college in Mahbubabad district, Dr. Ravinder’s contributions extend far beyond the hospital walls.
The Birth of Sushruta Foundation for Health, Culture, and Education
Dr. Ravinder founded the Sushruta Foundation for Health, Culture, and Education, which provides low-cost surgeries, supports temple construction, and supplies free books and tuition fees to economically disadvantaged students. While the foundation has been active since 2006, it was officially registered in 2016.
How It All Began
To support the foundation’s activities, Dr. Ravinder and other members contribute 20% of their monthly income. Inspired by Sushruta, the father of Indian surgery, Dr. Ravinder named the foundation after him. Born in Thurputanda, Enugal, in the Warangal district, Dr. Ravinder faced numerous challenges but pursued his education with determination. After running away from home, he enrolled in a hostel in Gangaram, Kothagudem. He later secured a seat at Osmania Medical College in Hyderabad for his intermediate studies and completed his master’s at Kakatiya Medical College in Warangal. In 2018, he returned to Gangaram to serve as a medical officer for four years and became an assistant professor of general surgery in Mahbubabad in 2021.
The Need for the Foundation
Despite the availability of free government health services, Dr. Ravinder recognized the inefficiencies and delays in government hospitals. To address this, he established the Sushruta Foundation, where he could provide timely surgeries and discharge patients promptly. One notable case involved an elderly woman named Rukminamma, who had a 12-kilogram tumor. Her family couldn’t afford the 7 lakh rupees quoted by several hospitals in Hyderabad. Through the foundation, Dr. Ravinder performed the surgery for just 70,000 rupees, covering ICU and medication costs.
Helping the Poor in Every Way Possible
Coming from a poor family himself, where his father was a daily wage laborer, Dr. Ravinder understands the struggles of poverty and is determined to help others avoid the same fate. He recently assisted four medical students by paying their 1 lakh rupees tuition fees.
Raising Awareness and Inspiring Communities
At 41, Dr. Ravinder not only aids the needy but also organizes awareness programs on education, health, and agriculture every Sunday in nearly 60 villages. He includes respected community members to inspire more people and also provides private tuition for underprivileged children. Through his efforts, Dr. Ravinder has brought smiles to countless faces and hopes to continue his journey toward a healthier and better India.
Positive Takeaway
Dr. Ravinder Chowkidar’s tireless dedication to helping the underprivileged is a testament to his compassionate spirit and unwavering commitment to social service and transforming lives. His foundation and initiatives have significantly impacted many lives, embodying the true essence of a selfless healthcare provider and community leader.
