Vice-President of India, C. P. Radhakrishnan, on Monday released the Hindi edition of ‘Palanivelu GUTS’, the autobiography of renowned surgeon C. Palanivelu, describing the book as an inspiring account of courage, perseverance and ethical innovation in the field of medicine.
Speaking at the release ceremony, the Vice-President highlighted the transformative impact of Dr. Palanivelu’s contributions to laparoscopic and robotic surgery in India. He noted that at a time when minimally invasive surgery was still at a nascent stage in the country, Dr. Palanivelu demonstrated exceptional vision by adopting and advancing new surgical techniques focused on patient welfare.
Recalling the early 1990s, the Vice-President observed that Dr. Palanivelu was among the first in India to recognise the potential of laparoscopic surgery, despite widespread scepticism. He pointed out that the surgeon established the first laparoscopic surgery centre in South India at Coimbatore in 1991, paving the way for wider acceptance of advanced surgical practices across the country.
Referring to the title ‘Palanivelu GUTS’, the Vice-President said the autobiography goes beyond professional success and narrates the journey of an individual from humble beginnings who overcame resistance and setbacks through discipline, integrity and ethical conviction. He emphasised that recognising individual effort and exemplary contribution is essential for building a healthy and progressive society.
Reflecting on India’s diversity, the Vice-President said that despite differences in language, culture and region, India has remained united and will continue to do so, bound by shared values and collective aspirations. He added that the Hindi edition of the book will allow a wider readership to access and draw inspiration from this life story.
Vice-President also underscored the responsibility of individuals to give back to society, appreciating Dr. Palanivelu’s initiatives to train surgeons in remote areas and develop cost-effective surgical techniques that have expanded access to quality healthcare.
