Dr. Reddy’s daughters: Preetha, Suneeta, Shobana, and Sangita now take the reins of the business, and his careful mentorship is part of the process.
At 90, when most would enjoy the twilight of life in quiet reflection, Dr. Prathap C. Reddy strides into his Chennai office every morning at 10 am, exuding a vigor that puts even younger professionals to shame. For the founder of Apollo Hospitals, work isn’t just routine—it’s purpose. With a net worth of Rs 26,858 crore, he could easily rest on his laurels, but his six-day workweek speaks volumes about his dedication.
Dr. Reddy’s journey from a young medical student at Stanley Medical College to a renowned cardiologist in the United States was one of perseverance and ambition. Yet, the letters from his father back home and a life-changing tragedy in 1979 redefined his path. When a patient died because they couldn’t afford treatment abroad, Reddy’s resolve hardened. India deserved better healthcare, and he was determined to provide it.
Apollo Hospitals opened in Chennai in 1983, with the then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi as a strong supporter. In fact, it was not just a hospital; it was a lifeline to thousands of Indians who could never have thought that they would see world-class healthcare in India. What began as an initiative for cardiac care went on to become a full-fledged healthcare empire encompassing 71 hospitals, 5,000 pharmacies, primary care clinics, diagnostics chains, and even a digital health portal.
Dr. Reddy’s daughters: Preetha, Suneeta, Shobana, and Sangita now take the reins of the business, and his careful mentorship is part of the process. As many as nine of ten grandchildren are already involved, with Reddy shaping their roles “like a surgeon” trying to ensure a smooth passage of leadership. It was not about wealth but ensuring that his legacy was one of excellence and compassion.
Despite his monumental success, Reddy remains grounded. “Success should make us humble and inspire us to do more for the country,” he once said. It’s this humility and relentless spirit that transformed Apollo Hospitals into a beacon of hope for millions.
It’s a story not of building a medical empire but of building trust, saving lives, and proving that with vision and grit, one can transform an entire nation’s healthcare landscape. And as he moves ahead, he reminds all of us that age is but a number when passion fuels the soul.
This post was originally published on here
