Exploring Basavanagudi’s Rich Medical History
Basavanagudi, a lush neighborhood with a deep-rooted history and heritage, stands as one of the oldest localities in the city. Known for landmarks like the Bull temple, the kadlekai parshe (annual groundnut fair), and the bustling Gandhi Bazaar, this area holds more than meets the eye. Did you know that Basavanagudi was home to pioneering medical practitioners who left an indelible mark on the field of medicine?
Unveiling Vintage Salute: A Tribute to Basavanagudi’s Medical Pioneers
Highlighting the remarkable legacy of these visionary healthcare professionals, Vintage Salute is a meticulously curated photo exhibition showcasing doctors who practiced in Basavanagudi from the 1940s to the 1980s. The brainchild behind this initiative is Maya Chandra, the founder-director of Maya Films and a proud resident of Basavanagudi with a passion for history.
Maya shared, “Growing up in Basavanagudi and personally experiencing the care of these local doctors, I felt a deep sense of gratitude towards their invaluable contributions. Therefore, on this Doctor’s Day, I felt compelled to honor these medical practitioners from our neighborhood. Their stories serve as a beacon of inspiration for both current and future generations of doctors.”
Tracing the Inspirational Journeys of Medical Trailblazers
The exhibition delves into the extraordinary journeys of 34 doctors, each a trailblazer in their own right. Many of these luminaries obtained their Licensed Medical Practitioner (LMP) degree before Independence and went on to pursue specialized training abroad through scholarships, defying their humble beginnings.
Among the showcased medical pioneers is Dr. Y N Krishnamurthy (1890 – 1975), a trailblazer who specialized in Radiology abroad, setting up Karnataka’s first Radiology Department at Victoria Hospital under the patronage of the Maharaja of Mysore.
Embracing Stories of Grit and Resilience
Noteworthy mentions in the exhibition pay homage to exceptional female doctors such as Dr. Nagamma, Dr. Kamalamma, Dr. Ratnamma Issac, Dr. Chandramma Sagar, Dr. Sulochana Gunasheela, and Dr. Radha. These women defied societal norms, with Dr. Kamalamma even conducting home deliveries of babies and Dr. Nagamma receiving recognition for her community service.
Padma Shri recipient Dr. M Mary Ratnamma Isaac, the first lady surgeon in India, dedicated her life to healthcare and social service. Dr. Sulochana Gunasheela introduced innovative medical techniques like laparoscopy and In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF) in South India, marking a significant milestone in the healthcare landscape.
Conducting Extensive Research for a Timeless Tribute
Maya’s efforts to compile this exhibition involved meticulous research, reaching out to old-time residents, friends, and families of Basavanagudi. Through personal visits to their residences and clinics, she collected invaluable information and anecdotes, preserving the rich history of these medical luminaries.
The inauguration of the exhibition, graced by cardiac surgeon Dr. Vivek Jawali, a Basavanagudi veteran himself, was followed by a compelling panel discussion titled “Carrying the Legacy Forward: Inspiration & Challenges.” The engaging discourse featured descendants of the honored doctors, providing insights into the evolving landscape of healthcare.
Experience the legacy of Basavanagudi’s medical pioneers at Vintage Salute, hosted at the Indian Institute of World Culture until July 7. Dive into a chronicle of resilience, dedication, and groundbreaking medical advancements that have shaped the healthcare narrative of the region.