Sankara Nethralaya News
Dr. Dhanashree Ratra Receives Honorary FAICO Award for Outstanding Contributions to Vitreo Retina
Vitreo Retina’s Senior Consultant Dr. Dhanashree Ratra has been awarded with the Honorary FAICO (Fellowship of All India Collegium of Ophthalmology) Award by the All India Ophthalmological Society (AIOC) during their annual conference. This recognition highlights Dr. Ratra’s exceptional contributions to the field of ophthalmology and her commitment to advancing eye care. Her receipt of this award further emphasises her status as a leader and role model in ophthalmology, inspiring peers and aspiring ophthalmologists alike.
Sankara Nethralaya’s Women’s Day Bash: Celebrating the Strength of Womanhood!
On the occasion of International Women’s Day, Sankara Nethralaya organized a vibrant celebration to honor the accomplishments and contributions of women within the organization. The day was marked with creativity, camaraderie, and insightful discussions, all centered on the theme “Wonders of being a woman.”
The celebration kicked off with an innovative activity where women employees were divided into groups and assigned walls to decorate. Each group infused their artistic talents into the walls, expressing the multifaceted aspects of womanhood and celebrating the strengths, achievements, and aspirations of women around the world.
The theme, “Wonders of being a woman,” inspired colorful and thought-provoking displays that showcased the resilience, diversity, and beauty inherent in womanhood. From depicting historic female figures who shattered barriers to celebrating the nurturing spirit of motherhood, the decorated walls paid tribute to the contributions of women to society.
Later in the evening, Sankara Nethralaya family gathered for a special evening event filled with laughter and engaging activities. The highlight of the evening was the presence of esteemed guest speaker Dr. Sivaranjani Arun B, a distinguished Gynecologist and Obstetrician from Bharath Hospital.
Dr. Sivaranjani Arun B captivated the audience with her insightful speech on menstruation and fertility, shedding light on important health issues that affect women. The event also featured several fun activities, including games and performances, creating a festive atmosphere where women could unwind and celebrate their achievements. From inspiring speeches to joyful celebrations, the Women’s Day event at Sankara Nethralaya remembered the resilience, strength, and beauty of women everywhere.
TN CM MK Stalin Lays Foundation Stone for Agastya TNK Family Sankara Nethralaya; Pycrofts Garden Road Renamed as Dr. SS Badrinath Road
In a significant move to address the pressing need for quality and affordable eye care in North Chennai, Sankara Nethralaya is extending its patient care services to the region. The foundation stone for this transformative project was laid on March 8, 2024, with Honourable Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Shri. MK Stalin officiating the ceremony virtually. Medical Research Foundation and Agastya Charitable Trust have joined hands to establish a state-of-the-art ophthalmic facility in Tondiarpet, a much-needed resource for the local community.
The event also acknowledges the pivotal role played by the trustees of Agastya Charitable Trust, including Mr.Ramesh Rajagopal, Mr.G.Chandrasekaran, and Mr. K.N.K.Venkateswaran. Phase 1 of the project will see the construction of a 50,000 square feet branch equipped to provide a range of essential eye care services. The new facility, named Agastya TNK Family Sankara Nethralaya, will offer specialized treatments in areas including cataract, cornea, vitreoretina, uvea, oculoplasty, glaucoma, and neuro-ophthalmology.
Situated at New number 231 & 232, Thiruvottiyur High Road, Periyar Nagar, Tondiarpet, Chennai – 600081, the ophthalmic center is strategically positioned to serve communities not only within Tondiarpet but also extending up to Gummudipundi and beyond.
This initiative marks a significant step forward in bridging the gap in healthcare accessibility and ensuring that individuals in underserved regions have access to essential eye care services.
Additionally, honouring the legacy of Sankara Nethralaya’s founder Padma Bhushan Dr. SS Badrinath, Pycrofts Garden Road in Chennai will be bestowed with a new identity, reverently renamed as Dr. SS Badrinath Road from March 8, 2024. The inauguration of the new name was also done by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Shri. MK Stalin.
Esteemed Quality Guru Dr. TV Subramaniam Passes Away
Dr. TV Subramaniam, a distinguished figure in quality management and recipient of the esteemed Sankara Ratna award, breathed his last. Dr. Subramaniam, formerly the Chairman of the Board of Studies at Bharathidasan Institute of Management, Trichy, and a Visiting Faculty at IIFMR, Chennai, as well as The Sankara Nethralaya Academy, peacefully passed away earlier on March 1, 2024 at his residence around 12:30 PM.
Dr. TV Subramaniam, whose professional endeavors left an indelible mark on academia and quality management, will be remembered for his invaluable contributions. During this period of mourning, Sankara Nethralaya extends our heartfelt condolences to his bereaved family and loved ones. Dr. TV Subramaniam’s legacy extends beyond his professional achievements; his sponsorship of fees for economically underserved students will inspire the generations to come.
As the community reflects on the loss of this remarkable leader and mentor, Dr. TV Subramaniam’s impact will endure through the lives he touched and the principles he upheld.
Dr. Parthopratim Dutta Majumder Honored as AIOS National Resource Teacher; Receives Gold Medal at GuruSangam
Senior Consultant of Uvea department Dr. Parthopratim Dutta Majumder has been conferred the prestigious title of All India Ophthalmological Society (AIOS) National Resource Teacher and awarded a Gold Medal at the AIOS GuruSangam event.
AIOS also recognized Dr. Majumder’s expertise by appointing him as a National Resource Teacher, highlighting his role as a guiding force in advancing knowledge and skills within the ophthalmic community.
The felicitation ceremony was held at the AIOS Headquarters in New Delhi on February 18th.
Sankara Nethralaya Honors Dr. SS Badrinath with Campus Naming, Bust Unveiling; ‘Vizhikalil Oliyettrum Sankara Nethralaya’ Book Released
Sankara Nethralaya celebrated the 84th birth anniversary of our visionary founder, Dr. SS Badrinath, with a heartfelt tribute, honoring his significant contributions to healthcare and ophthalmology. The commemorative event took place on February 24, 2024, at the College Road campus, where a bust of Dr. SS Badrinath was unveiled to symbolize his enduring legacy.
Shri R. Rajaji, a beneficiary of Dr. Badrinath’s services and a close friend, had the honor of unveiling the bust. In his address, he expressed his deep respect and fond memories of their friendship.
In a move to immortalize Dr. Badrinath’s vision and leadership, Sankara Nethralaya also announced the naming of College Road campus as the “Padma Bhushan Dr. S. S. Badrinath Campus.” The naming ceremony, marked by the inauguration of the new name board by Ramadurai, former CEO of TCS, was attended by esteemed guests including Padma Bhushan Kavi Perarasu Vairamuthu, Padma Shri Nalli Kuppusami Chetti, Tamil novelist Smt. Sivasankari, and Shri Gandhi Kannadasan of Kannadhasan Pathippagham.
A poignant moment unfolded as hospital staff, former patients, donors, and well-wishers gathered to witness the release of ‘Vizhikalil Oliyettrum Sankara Nethralaya’, a book penned by Shri. AP Irungovel and illustrated by Shri. Maniam Selvan. Published by Kannadasan Publishing House, the book encapsulates the institution’s journey and was graciously released by Shri. G. Rajendran, chairman of GRT Jewellers, with the first copy received by Dr. Nirmala Subramanian, professor, Department of Oculoplasty Services.
In his address, Sankara Nethralaya’s Chairman Dr. TS Surendran reminisced about Dr. Badrinath’s humility, highlighting his reluctance for personal accolades. He underscored the significance of the book, curated to honor Dr. Badrinath’s legacy, with the proceeds from its sales dedicated to the distribution of food to the underprivileged patients getting treated in Sankara Nethralaya’s St. Thomas Mount campus.
Shri. Nalli Kuppusamy Chetti, reflecting on his association with Dr. Badrinath during their school days, expressed his reverence for the renowned ophthalmologist. Smt. Sivasankari, a recipient of Dr. Badrinath’s care, hailed his enduring legacy, emphasizing his continued presence and blessings upon the institution. Shri. Vairamuthu lauded Dr. Badrinath’s ethos of discipline, morality, and respect, noting the institution’s transformative impact underpinned by these principles.
The event saw the presence of President and Executive – Medical Director Dr. Girish Shiva Rao, Chairman and Director – Peadiatric Ophthalmology Dr. TS Surendran, Honorary Treasurer Mr. Kannan Narayanan among several other senior consultants.
Sankara Nethralaya wins patient safety award
Sankara Nethralaya wins the 11th International Patient Safety Award in 2024 under the category of “Award for Futuristic & Sustainable Innovation for Patient Safety.”Among the 200 outstanding nominations received from 70 organizations worldwide, the jury chose Sankara Nethralaya for achieving patient safety through a futuristic, sustainable, cost-effective, easily adoptable, and innovative method of reporting near-misses in the organization. Dr. Jaichandran V V, Chairperson of the Hospital Safety Committee (HSC), received the award from Dr. Preetha Reddy, Executive Vice Chairperson of Apollo Hospitals Enterprise Limited, on February 23, 2024, in Bengaluru, India.
It should be noted that Sankara Nethralaya also won the International Patient Safety Award in 2023 for “excellence in the culture of safety design.”
Dr. SS Badrinath Oration: Sankara Nethralaya Pays Respect to Visionary Founder with Speech by Gopalkrishna Gandhi
In a poignant tribute to Sankara Nethralaya’s visionary founder late Dr. SS Badrinath, an oration was conducted on Saturday, February 17, 2024 (a few days before the birth anniversary of Dr. Badrinath, which falls on February 24), at Sankara Nethralaya Eye Hospital in Chennai. The event, held merely a few months after his passing, was marked by heartfelt reminiscences and reflections on Dr. Badrinath’s life and contributions to society.
Ms. Bhavya Ganapathi, a student of Kalakshetra Foundation commenced the event with her solemn invocation. The chief guest, Gopalkrishna Gandhi, was honored with distinction by Mr. G Ramachandran, Honorary Secretary of Medical Research Foundation, and Dr. Girish Shiva Rao, President and Executive Director of Medical Research Foundation.
Mr. Gopalkrishna Gandhi, former West Bengal Governor and distinguished diplomat, took center stage to deliver a stirring speech on the topic, “Gandhi’s Glasses.” In a deeply personal address, Mr. Gandhi recounted his interactions with Dr. Badrinath, revealing that the late ophthalmologist had previously requested him to speak on the same topic during an international gathering.
During his oration, Mr. Gandhi painted a vivid picture of Mahatma Gandhi, sharing anecdotes and memories associated with the iconic figure and his glasses. He showcased photographs capturing Gandhi Ji both with and without his trademark spectacles, underscoring the symbolic significance of this simple yet profound accessory. He concluded his speech by presenting the audience with the last-ever prescription of Mahatma Gandhi, which was recommended by an ophthalmologist.
Dr. TS Surendran, Chairman of Sankara Nethralaya set the tone for an evening of reflection and homage with his welcome address. Sankara Nethralaya’s Honorary Treasurer Mr. Kannan Narayanan concluded the proceedings with a heartfelt vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to all attendees and donors, reaffirming the importance of honoring Dr. Badrinath’s enduring legacy. In a significant announcement, Dr. TS Surendran declared that the oration would become an annual tradition, serving as a fitting tribute to Dr. Badrinath. Dr. Girish Shiva Rao, President and Executive Director of Medical Research Foundation, also took part in the event.
Sankara Nethralaya Commemorates 75th Republic Day with Grand Celebration
Sankara Nethralaya celebrated the 75th Republic Day with pride at the quadrangle of the Mahyco Block, situated at the main campus in Chennai. The ceremony, which commenced at 7:45 am, was graced by R.W. Bro T. N. Manoharan, The Regional Grand Master of the Regional Grand Lodge of Southern India, who served as the Chief Guest.
The highlight of the event was the flag hoisting ceremony at 8 am, which was conducted by R.W. Bro T. N. Manoharan, accompanied by Mr. I.K. Chellasamy, Chief Security Officer, escorting the Chief Guest to the flag pole. Following the flag hoisting, Dr. Janani Srinivasan extended a warm welcome and introduced the Chief Guest, who was later honoured by President of Medical Research Foundation Dr. Girish S Rao.
The Chief Guest, R.W. Bro T. N. Manoharan, delivered an inspiring address, reflecting on the significance of the Republic Day and its values. A significant part of the celebration included the distribution of service awards to employees who inspired the whole Sankara Nethralaya family with their dedication. The Chief Guest distributed awards to employees who completed 35, 30, 25, and 20 years of service. Dr. Girish S Rao honored those who completed 15 years, while employees with 10 years of service were recognized by Dr. Ronnie George, and Dr. Girish S Rao.
The event also witnessed the distribution of Dhingra Trust awards by R.W. Bro T. N. Manoharan. Smt. Sita Mittal presented the Circle of Excellence Awards in Patient Care, recognizing outstanding contributions. Merit Scholar Ship Awards to the children of employees, acknowledging academic excellence were also presented during the ceremony. The dedication of SNDEED employees was recognized with awards presented by Lion S N Harinarayanan from the Lions Club of Central Madras.
Further, employees who rendered commendable service during the Michaung Cyclone and Flood were honored by Dr. Pramod Bhende, Director of Shri Bhagwan Mahavir Vitreoretinal Services. The ceremony concluded with a gracious Vote of Thanks by Ms. Sudha Mohan, Deputy General Manager of the HR Department.
Dr. Nagamani Dharmapuri Endowment Lecture Sheds Light on Advances in Pediatric Ophthalmology
In a distinguished event at the Sri VD Swami Auditorium, Sankara Nethralaya, on January 20, hosted the 17th Dr. Nagamani Dharmapuri Endowment Lecture, featuring Professor Graham Edwin Holder from the Department of Ophthalmology at the National University of Singapore. The lecture, titled “Role of Electrophysiology in Pediatric Retinal Disorders,” delved into the latest advancements in the field.
Dr. Akshay Badakere led the ceremony as the master of ceremonies, commencing with an invocation by Ms. Akshaya C Balakrishnan. Dr. Kavitha Kalaivani Natarajan delivered the welcome address, setting the stage for an enlightening evening focused on pediatric ophthalmology. Dr. Sumita Agarkar provided insights into the pediatric ophthalmology department, and Dr. Hennav Kaur Dhilon shed light on the significance of the Dr. Nagamani Dharmapuri Endowment.
The introduction of the chief guest, Professor Graham Edwin Holder, was presented by our distinguished senior consultant Dr. Lingam Gopal. This paved the way for the much-anticipated Nagamani Dharmapuri Endowment Lecture, where Professor Holder shared his expertise on the role of electrophysiology in addressing pediatric retinal disorders.
The event witnessed the presence of Sankara Nethralaya’s President, Dr. Girish Shiva Rao and Chairman, Dr. TS Surendran, who honored Professor Holder for his valuable contributions to the field. The evening concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks by Dr. Akila Ramkumar, expressing gratitude to all participants and emphasizing the ongoing commitment to advancing pediatric ophthalmology research and education.