Dr. SS Badrinath Death: Dr. SS Badrinath, founder and chairman of Shankar Nethralaya, died on Tuesday (21 November). He was 83 years old. The news of his demise was confirmed by Tamil Nadu Congress Vice President Ram Suganthan. Dr. SS Badrinath was the founder of Shankar Nethralaya, one of India’s largest charitable eye hospitals in Chennai.
Condoling Badrinath’s demise, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said his contribution to eye care and his continuous service to the society has left an indelible mark. The Prime Minister launched the social media platform ‘X’ (formerly Twitter) said, ‘‘Deeply saddened by the demise of visionary, ophthalmology expert and founder of Shankar Nethralaya Dr. SS Badrinath ji.’’
He further wrote, ‘‘His contribution to eye care and his tireless service to the society have left an indelible mark. His work will continue to inspire generations. Condolences to his family and loved ones. Om Shanti.’’
Shankar Netralaya was established in 1978
Born in Chennai, Badrinath is survived by his wife, pediatrician Dr. Vasanthi Badrinath, and two sons, Ananth and Sheshu. He founded it in the year 1978 after completing his studies and research abroad. Dr. SS Badrinath is known as a miracle worker in medicine. He worked towards a great objective. Helped in providing free medical treatment to the economically weaker sections of the society. His organization Shankar Nethralaya became a temple for the poor.
Who was SS Badrinath?
Sengamedu Srinivas Badrinath was born in a small town in Chennai and lost both his parents when he reached adulthood. SS Badrinath used the insurance money received after the death of his parents to pursue his passion i.e. medical science as a career.
He started his career from New York. There he worked in many eye hospitals. After this, in the year 1978, Dr. Badrinath established a charitable eye hospital in Chennai which laid the foundation of providing free treatment to the poor. Now around 1200 patients come to the door of the hospital and 100 surgeries are performed free of cost every day. Dr. SS Badrinath was also awarded Padma Bhushan and Padma Shri Award by the Government of India for his commendable work over the years.