Dr. S. S. Badrinath, Founder of Sankara Nethralaya, Passes Away at 83

Dr. S. S. Badrinath, a prominent ophthalmologist and the founder of Sankara Nethralaya, passed away this morning at the age of 83. Born on February 24, 1940, in Triplicane, Chennai, he emerged as a leading figure in the field of eye care in India. Despite facing a childhood illness that delayed his education until the age of 7, Dr. Badrinath excelled academically and secured the highest marks in Ophthalmology at Madras Medical College in 1962. His commitment to putting people before profits was evident throughout his illustrious career. In 1967, he married Dr. Vasanthi Iyengar, a pediatrician he met during his studies in Brooklyn, New York, USA. The couple made a significant decision to forsake lucrative careers in the U.S. and returned to India to contribute to their homeland. After working at Voluntary Health Services and Vijaya hospitals, Dr. Badrinath established a private practice specializing in ophthalmology and vitreoretinal surgery. A transformative moment occurred in 1974 when he performed surgery on H. H. Chandrasekarendra Saraswathi Swami of the Kanchi mutt, leading him to spiritual institutions. Responding to the call of H. H. Jayendra Saraswathi Swami in 1975, Dr. Badrinath, along with other young doctors, set up Sankara Nethralaya in 1978. Over the past five decades, the institution has provided eye care services, either for free or at a low cost based on patients' affordability, benefiting millions of people. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sadness at the passing of Dr. S. S. Badrinath, acknowledging his visionary contributions to ophthalmology and the establishment of Sankara Nethralaya. Dr. Badrinath's legacy in eye care and his dedication to societal service will undoubtedly inspire generations to come. Condolences were extended to his family and loved ones. Om Shanti. You May Like to Read About Digital Marketing Company in US