By Sudarshan Ballal
Copyright thehindu
Padma Bhushan, architect of modern Manipal, Dr. Ramdas Pai, turns 90 on Wednesday. His vision and relentless dedication have profoundly transformed Manipal into a beacon of education, healthcare, and innovation. Dr. Pai’s journey from an ambitious young man to one of India’s most respected educationalists and healthcare pioneers is a testament to his commitment to societal progress.
I have had the pleasure of being associated with three generations of the Pai family for over 50 years – first as a student at Kasturba Medical College under its founder, the visionary late Padma Shri Dr. T.M.A Pai; later as a young doctor under Dr. Ramdas Pai and his wife Ms. Vasanthi Pai; and most recently as a clinician working alongside his son, Dr. Ranjan Pai, who has nurtured one of the largest healthcare organisations in India, Manipal Health Enterprises. I rose through the ranks from Consultant in Nephrology to Director of the department, and now, Chairman of the hospital chain.
After my return from the USA, I had an opportunity to set up my own hospital but declined, saying I would rather work for Dr. Pai than be my own boss. At Manipal Hospitals, I was given a free hand to set up the department with zero interference. I was never made to feel like an employee. There was no high-handedness or cronyism. Dr. Pai sat alongside us in planning and problem-solving, sharing purpose as an astute leader who never compromised on quality or values. Everyone in the organisation was treated in the same benevolent way.
Dr. Pai envisioned establishing a centre of higher learning in Manipal, beginning with the modest Kasturba Medical College set up by his illustrious father, Dr. T.M.A Pai. He worked tirelessly to attract talent, resources, and infrastructure, ultimately founding the Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE). Under his stewardship, MAHE evolved into a multidisciplinary university of eminence, offering courses ranging from medicine and engineering to liberal arts, with campuses in Dubai, Malaysia, and Antigua.
Beyond education, Dr. Pai revolutionised healthcare in Manipal and across India. In charge of Kasturba Medical College, he played a pivotal role in making quality healthcare accessible to many. The college became a model for medical education and healthcare in India. His pursuit of excellence also led to the establishment of numerous hospitals nationwide. He laid the foundation for private healthcare by setting up Manipal Hospital, Bengaluru, which has now grown into one of the most respected and largest healthcare groups in the country.
In recognition of his contributions, Dr. Pai was awarded the Padma Bhushan in 2011 for his distinguished service in education and healthcare.
As he celebrates his 90th birthday, Dr. Pai continues to inspire and lead by example. His vision of Manipal as a global educational hub and a model for integrated healthcare remains alive through the institutions he established and the lives he touched. His unwavering belief in the power of education to transform lives encourages the next generation to dream bigger and work harder.
On his 90th birthday, I reflect on the profound impact one individual can have on a community, a nation, and the world. His journey serves as an inspiration, reminding us that with vision and determination, we can create a better tomorrow.
Dr. Sudarshan Ballal is the Chairman of Manipal Health Enterprises Pvt Ltd
