Science, Stories and Sevagram: A Physician-Teacher's Reflections
SP Kalantri 
As the news sinks in, some may rub their eyes in disbelief. Others may find their ears reluctant to accept the truth. Some might dismiss it as a cleverly planted premature April fool story. However, the truth does not change: tomorrow, Dr. Shakuntala Chhabra shall leave Sevagram for good, marking the end of an era. … Read more
Alcohol and a snake. Two unlikely companions in the dark, yet both played a role in the mysterious arrival of Vitthal (name changed) to the emergency room of our hospital. Two days ago. It was well past midnight when Vitthal, consumed by alcohol, began to babble about a snake. In the quiet of his village … Read more
In the corridors of our hospital, a remarkable story unfolded just a day ago. A woman well into her nineties, her spirit worn by time but her resolve firm. Hailing from a village 200 kilometers east of Sevagram, she lived out her days in the company of memories and her devoted son after the loss … Read more
Dr. Swarna Lata Samal, born on April 14, 1948, passed away this morning. She leaves behind a legacy of simplicity and selfless service. Life, for Mrs. Samal, was a tumultuous journey. Filled with highs and lows , her life journey tested her resilience and spirit. She faced tempests that would have shaken the bravest of … Read more
(2 April 1947-3 December 2023) I begin this obituary with deep respect for Dr. Narendra Samal (formerly known as Naziruddin Khan until 1985), a remarkable pathologist who exemplified the principles of gender equity as a true role model. Dr. Samal’s dedication to gender equity was evident in the decisions he made to support the professional … Read more
Here is a story that could captivate the imagination of Rajkumar Hirani for his next movie. Dr. Anurag and Madhavi Bhargava, the dedicated physician pair, were prominently featured in The Lancet yesterday, with a full page dedicated to describing their impactful work as self-identified social physicians. Having known the couple for nearly three decades, witnessing … Read more
Born in 1916, Dr Sushila Nayar earned her stripes at Lady Hardinge Medical College, New Delhi in 1938. A time when India had just 10 medical colleges, admitting a mere 600 students collectively. Lady Hardinge, affiliated with Punjab University, handpicked just 25 students annually for the coveted M.B.B.S degree. In this select group of 51 … Read more
After spending four decades in Sevagram, I often find myself reflecting on the past, comparing it to the present, and pondering what the future holds. Itโs one of my most cherished pastimesโa price I pay for the salt that now outnumbers the pepper on my scalp. The conversation begins with medical students. We often blame … Read more
Years ago, in Sevagram, PC, a young girl, arrived at our hospital in the midnightโmotionless and speechless. Her ordeal began after a family dinner. Her family noticed something was amiss. She couldn’t speak, move, or even swallow her saliva. Panic set in as they rushed her to our hospital. In the ICU, residents checked her … Read more
Surprises never cease. Patients find their own indigenous way to treat their maladies, especially when they run out of money and lack support from family and loved ones. Yesterday, I couldn’t believe my ears as I heard a real-life story from a villager at the Sevagram hospital OPDโa story of strength, resourcefulness, and triumph over … Read more