ESO & TSNA Students Shine at 60th Indian Contact Lens Education Programme
Our Masters Optometry students from the Elite School of Optometry (ESO) and The Sankara Nethralaya Academy (TSNA) won a feat of awards at the “60th Indian Contact Lens Education Programme (ICLEP)” held at LV Prasad Eye Institute (LVPEI), Hyderabad on July 14th, 2024.
Ms. Janani B from ESO, SASTRA, emerged as the “WINNER” for her oral presentation titled “Cost and Benefits of Availing Specialty Contact Lenses from the Perspective of Patients.” Her research, supervised by Dr. Anuradha, Ms. Swetha, and Ms. S. Madhumathi, impressed the judges and highlighted the economic and therapeutic advantages of specialty contact lenses.
Ms. Archita Kakti from TSNA secured the “RUNNER UP” award for her insightful presentation on “Evaluation of Changes in Ocular Surface Parameters in Neophyte Soft Contact Lens Users.” Her study, under the guidance of Ms. S. Madhumathi and Mr. Ronit Dutta, shed light on the impact of contact lens use on ocular surface health in new users.
In addition to these top honors, four abstracts from our Masters students were selected for oral presentations at the conference, showcasing their innovative research and clinical findings:
Ms. Sindhu Vaishnavi from TSNA presented her work on “Quality of Life in Pediatric Patients Wearing Scleral Lenses,” supervised by Ms. S. Madhumathi, Ms. Akshaya Balakrishnan, and Ms. S. Karpagavalli. Her research focused on the positive impact of scleral lenses on the quality of life in young patients.
Mr. Priyom Parashar from TSNA shared a “Case Report on Managing Nystagmus: A Comprehensive Approach for Improved Outcomes,” guided by Mr. Praveen Kumar, Mr. Amit Bhowmick, Mr. Krishna Shah, and Ms. S. Madhumathi. His detailed case study provided valuable insights into managing nystagmus for better patient outcomes.
New Sky Lounge and Renovated Auditorium Inaugurated at Sankara Nethralaya
Sankara Nethralaya is delighted to announce the inauguration of the Sky Lounge, a new dining area, on July 9, 2024. The lounge is located on the 8th floor of the KNBIRVO Block at the Dr. S. S. Badrinath Campus. This modern dining space promises a refreshing experience for visitors, staff, and guests, offering stunning views and a serene atmosphere.
In conjunction with the Sky Lounge, the newly renovated Shri V. D. Swami Auditorium was also unveiled. This state-of-the-art facility now boasts cutting-edge features, enhancing its capability to host conferences, seminars, and events with improved audio-visual technology and comfort.
Expert-Led “Fracture Repair and Clinical Tips” Event Held at Sankara Nethralaya
On June 23, 2024, the Jayshree Venkatraman Auditorium at the Sri A Sivasailam Block, JKCN Complex, Sankara Nethralaya, hosted the “Fracture Repair and Clinical Tips Under Real Experts” event. The program, designed to share valuable insights and practical knowledge on fracture repair, attracted an impressive lineup of medical professionals and eager participants.
The event commenced with a welcome address by Dr. Md Shahid Alam, setting the stage for the day’s activities. The first session, chaired by Dr. Nirmala Subramanian, featured an expert panel including Dr. Md Shahid Alam, Dr. Marian Pauly, Dr. Ananthanarayan P, Dr. Yogeshwari, and Dr. Pratheeba Devi Nivean, with Dr. Vathsalya Vijay serving as the moderator. Following this session, Dr. Raghuraj Hegde, Dr. Veena Noronha, and Dr. Tarjani Dave delivered their insightful lectures.
The second session focused on case presentations related to orbital fractures. Chaired by Dr. Kirthi Koka, the session saw judges Dr. Bipasha Mukherjee, Dr. Roshmi Gupta, Dr. Priti Uday, and Dr. A Samarpuri evaluating the presentations, with Dr. Preeta Nair moderating. Esteemed speakers, including Dr. Nidhi Pandey, Dr. Tejaswi K, Dr. Mohan Gowda, Dr. Snigdha Mishra, Dr. Priyanka Saini, and Dr. Prerana Patil, covered various relevant topics.
In the third session, another series of case presentations were chaired by Dr. Suresh Bapu, with panelists Dr. Tarjani Dave, Dr. Senthinathan, Dr. Sumathi V, and Dr. D Ramesh. The session judges were Dr. Raghuraj Hegde, Dr. Sumathi V, Dr. Kavitha Kalaivani, Dr. Elavenil P, and Dr. Vishwaraj Ratha, moderated by Dr. Anju V Chandran. Subsequent speakers, including Dr. Amirtha Varshini VS, Dr. Mughdha Sardessai, Dr. Pragya Singh, Dr. Maalavika, Dr. Kavya Annamalai, Dr. Durga Priyadarshini, and Dr. Varsha Backiavathy, provided further insights, followed by a lecture from Dr. Elavenil Paneerselvam.
The fourth session featured video presentations chaired by Dr. Roshmi Gupta, with judges Dr. Md Shahid Alam, Dr. Tarjani, Dr. Elavenil P, and Dr. P Senthilnathan. Dr. Mrithika Sen moderated this engaging session, which included lectures by Dr. Senthilnathan, Dr. Priti Uday, Dr. Ruhi Jange, and Dr. Sharmika Patoria. A lecture by Dr. Ananthanarayanan P was followed by an interactive quiz on ocular trauma.
The day concluded with two hands-on workshops and a prize distribution ceremony recognizing the standout participants. This event, marked by the presence of distinguished experts and dynamic sessions, underscored Sankara Nethralaya’s commitment to advancing medical education and fostering expertise in fracture repair.
Sankara Nethralaya Honored with Sri Sant Hirdharam Sewa Award at Vision 2020 Conference
The 18th annual conference of Vision 2020, a significant event in the field of ophthalmology, was held from July 5 to 7, 2024, at Christian Medical College & Hospital, Ludhiana. The conference brought together leading experts and institutions dedicated to eradicating preventable blindness and enhancing eye care services globally.
During the event, the Sri Sant Hirdharam Sewa award was awarded to Sankara Nethralaya for our innovative eye care practices. Our Senior Consultant, Dr. R R Sudhir, received the award on behalf of Sankara Nethralaya.
Governor of Tamil Nadu Felicitates Dr. Jyotirmay Biswas on West Bengal State Foundation Day
On the occasion of West Bengal State Foundation Day, Governor of Tamil Nadu Thiru R. N. Ravi felicitated Dr. Jyotirmay Biswas, Director of Uveitis & Ocular Pathology Department, Sankara Nethralaya at Raj Bhavan. Dr. Biswas recited a poem by Rabindranath Tagore in Bengali and its English translation, adding a cultural touch to the celebration.
Bhoomi Pooja Ceremony Held for New Agastya TNK Family Sankara Nethralaya Branch in Tondiarpet
Sankara Nethralaya Eye Hospital is set to expand its services with the establishment of a new branch in Tondiarpet, Chennai. The new facility, named Agastya TNK Family Sankara Nethralaya, aims to cater to the growing demand for quality eye care in the region.
The auspicious Bhoomi Pooja ceremony for the upcoming facility was held on June 16, 2024. The event was graced by the presence of His Holiness Jagadguru Pujyashri Shankara Vijayendra Saraswathi Swamigal, who blessed the occasion and the future endeavors of the hospital.
Speaking during the event, His Holiness Jagadguru Pujyashri Shankara Vijayendra Saraswathi Swamigal said, “It is crucial to contribute to such noble causes. We appreciate the generous donation of land by the Sri Agastyar Charitable Trust, which has provided a 98-year lease for this important project.” He went on to praise Sankara Nethralaya, stating, “Sankara Nethralaya has been serving the underserved communities of India, thanks to the vision of its founder, Dr. Badrinath. Through their Mobile Eye Surgical Units, they have been reaching the doorstep of the rural population taking eye care to people who have less access. Dr. Badrinath has trained a team of highly skilled surgeons who are dedicated to carrying forward his mission,” he said.
Prominent figures from Sankara Nethralaya and its parent organization, the Medical Research Foundation, attended the ceremony including the likes of Mr. G Ramachandran, Honorary Secretary of the Medical Research Foundation, Dr. Girish Shiva Rao, President and Executive Medical Director of Sankara Nethralaya, Dr. T. S. Surendran, Chairman of Sankara Nethralaya, Mr. Kannan Narayanan, Honorary Treasurer of Medical Research Foundation.
The Agastya TNK Family Sankara Nethralaya is touted to become yet another addition to Chennai’s healthcare landscape, continuing the legacy of Sankara Nethralaya in delivering exceptional eye care services.
Maha Periya Jayanthi Celebrated with Grandeur at Sankara Nethralaya
The Sri V. D. Swami Auditorium at Sankara Nethralaya’s Padma Bhushan Dr. S. S. Badrinath campus echoed with Veda Gosham by students of Sankaralayam, Chetpet on Friday (June 7) as the auspicious occasion of Maha Periyava Jayanthi was celebrated by the Sankara Nethralaya family and devotees of Paramacharya.
Ms. Sangeetha, Research Optometrist, compered the event, while Ms. Sudha Mohan, Deputy General Manager, HR, Sankara Nethralaya welcomed the gathering and introduced the Chief guest of the event, Shri. Ganesa Sarma, an Upanyasam exponent, erudite scholar in Sanskrit and Tamil, and an ardent devotee of Kanchi Maha Periava. Dr. T. S. Surendran, Chairman of Sankara Nethralaya, formally honored Shri. Ganesa Sarma
In his speech, the chief guest shared personal anecdotes and legendary stories of His Holiness Sri Maha Periyava, leaving the attendees in a state of spiritual elation. He had a high word of praise for Dr S. S. Badrinath, Sankara Nethralaya who was amply blessed to perform surgery for the Paramacharya himself.
The financial contributions made by the employees of Sankara Nethralaya for the event were received by Mr. Kannan Narayanan, Honorary Treasurer of Sankara Nethralaya.
The auspicious occasion concluded with Arathi, floral offerings to Mahaperiyava by audience and members of Sankara Nethralaya family and distribution of Holy Prasadam.
SWAN Fundraising Event Showcases Remarkable Talent of Physically Challenged Dancers
In a heartwarming display of talent and community support, the Sankara Nethralaya Women Auxiliary (SWAN) hosted a successful fundraising event on June 2 at the Naradha Ghana Sabha in Chennai. The event highlighted the remarkable abilities of physically challenged dancers from the renowned group, ‘Miracle on Wheels.’
The evening provided a platform to celebrate inclusivity and empowerment, as the dancers took to the stage, captivating the audience with their breathtaking performances. Despite facing physical challenges, the dancers showcased their extraordinary talent and narrated stories of Ramayana and Maharabaratha proving that determination and passion know no bounds.
The event was attended by several esteemed dignitaries including Mr. G Ramacharndran, the Honorary Secretary of the Medical Research Foundation, Dr. Girish Shiva Rao, President of Sankara Nethralaya, Dr. T. S. Surendran, Chairman of Sankara Nethralaya, and Mr. Kannan Narayanan, Honorary Treasurer of Sankara Nethralaya.
As the curtains drew to a close on the evening’s performances, attendees left with hearts full of inspiration and a renewed commitment to supporting initiatives that empower the marginalized and celebrate diversity.
SWAN’s fundraising event raised essential funds for Sankara Nethralaya and shone a spotlight on the incredible talents of physically challenged dancers.
Sankara Nethralaya Honours Atlanta-based Engineer Mr. Bala Reddy Indurti with Sankara Ratna Award
Sankara Nethralaya is proud to announce that Atlanta-based engineer and philanthropist Mr. Bala Reddy Indurti was awarded the prestigious Sankara Ratna Award for 2023 on May 25, at Shri. V. D. Swami Auditorium, Sankara Nethralaya Padma Bhushan Dr. S. S. Badrinath Campus, College Road, Chennai.
Mr. Bala Reddy Indurti, an alumnus of Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University, Hyderabad (JNTU), and the University of Texas, has channelled his professional success into passionate social work. His efforts primarily focus on providing educational assistance to underprivileged children and organizing free health camps.
As the President of Sankara Nethralaya USA, Mr. Indurti has significantly increased the organization’s footprint by establishing numerous chapters across the United States. His notable “Adopt a Village” initiative enables Indian expatriates to sponsor Mobile Eye Surgical Units (MESU) in their ancestral villages in India, delivering essential eye care to underserved communities.
The award ceremony was attended by Gagandeep Singh Bedi, Additional Chief Secretary to the Government, Health and Family Welfare Department, Government of Tamil Nadu, who presented the award. Former India cricketer Ambati Rayudu served as the guest of honour. The event also saw the presence of several dignitaries including former Sankara Ratna recipient and acclaimed Tamil movie director S. P. Muthuraman, Justice Prabha Sridevan (Retd.), and Dr. V. Thirupugazh I.A.S. (Retd.). Honorary Secretory, Medical Research Foundation, Mr. G Ramacharndran, Sankara Nethralaya’s President Dr. Girish Shiva Rao, Chairman Dr. T. S. Surendran, and Honorary Treasurer Mr. Kannan Narayanan graced the occasion.
Mr. Indurti expressed his gratitude and commitment to the cause, stating, “When I started working for the Sankara Nethralaya, I could see the vision of Dr. S. S. Badrinath. In the USA, we had 25 trustees and seven chapters. In the last six years after I became the president, we expanded from seven places to 21 places. We are trying to expand to more and more cities.”
In his address, Mr. Gagandeep Singh Bedi highlighted the importance of eye donation and the critical role of collaborations between government health sectors and NGOs like Sankara Nethralaya for societal betterment. Quoting Swami Vivekananda, he remarked, “Service of mankind is service to God. Standing here at this ceremony, I am reminded of two categories of people. One category includes people like Bala Reddy. All the way from the USA, he thought about his brothers here in India and was involved in activities for their welfare. The next category includes doctors and paramedical staff.”
Guest of honour, Ambati Rayudu, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the need for greater appreciation of doctors. He shared a personal anecdote about how his child’s vision was restored by Sankara Nethralaya, expressing profound gratitude to the doctors and the institution.
The Sankara Ratna Award, established in 2002 to commemorate the Silver Jubilee of Sankara Nethralaya, honors distinguished individuals who have significantly supported and contributed to the institution’s mission and philosophy. Past recipients include luminaries such as Sri Ratan Tata, Sri A. M. Naik, Dr. Madhavan Nair, Tamil movie director S. P. Muthuraman, and former HDFC Chairman Deepak Parekh.
This year’s award to Mr. Bala Reddy Indurti continues the tradition of recognizing exceptional contributions to society, highlighting the impactful work done by individuals in collaboration with Sankara Nethralaya.
Dr. T. S. Surendran Releases Souvenir of SWAN
On May 21, Dr. T. S. Surendran, Chairman of Sankara Nethralaya, released a souvenir celebrating the contributions of the members of the Sankara Nethralaya Women’s Auxiliary (SWAN). This special book reflects on SWAN’s significant role in the growth and success of Sankara Nethralaya over the years.
The first copy of the book was handed over to Dr. Girish Shiva Rao by Dr. T. S. Surendran, while SWAN’s Trustee Mrs. Surekha Mehta received the second copy.
The souvenir highlights the tireless efforts of SWAN members and provides an overview of the hospital’s history and achievements. It includes detailed information about the state-of-the-art facilities available at Sankara Nethralaya, highlighting the institution’s commitment to excellence in eye care.
A significant portion of the book is dedicated to the life and legacy of Dr. S.S. Badrinath, the founder of Sankara Nethralaya, whose vision and dedication have been pivotal in shaping the institution. Through personal stories and anecdotes, the souvenir also narrates Dr. Badrinath’s contributions and the enduring impact of his work.