My Surgical Odyssey: From Village Roots to Global Impact
Life is often a tapestry woven with moments of inspiration, determination, and serendipity. My journey to becoming a surgeon is a story that began in a humble village and has spanned decades, continents, and countless lives touched through the art and science of surgery. Here, I share my surgical odyssey—an account of my life, challenges, and achievements—in the hope that it may inspire others to pursue their dreams with unwavering resolve.
A Prophetic Beginning
I was born on September 11, 1954, in the village Sithayankottai near Dindigul, Tamil Nadu, to an agricultural family. My entry into the world was dramatic, as my mother underwent a Caesarean section—a rarity in those days. The surgeon who performed the operation, Dr. Selvaraj, not only saved my mother’s life but also predicted my future. He blessed me to become a surgeon and suggested I be named after him. That blessing planted a seed that would take root years later.
Early Education: Foundations of Excellence
I did my schooling at St. Mary’s High School, Dindigul, and pursued my Pre-University Course (PUC) at St. Joseph’s College, Trichy. Academics came naturally to me, and my consistent performance ensured a smooth entry into Madurai Medical College in 1971. Fate came full circle when Dr. Selvaraj, the same doctor who delivered me, accompanied me to my MBBS admission interview. His encouragement continued to serve as a beacon of inspiration.
The MBBS Journey: Nurturing a Dream
My MBBS journey at Madurai Medical College was marked by persistence rather than brilliance. I was an average student academically, but my fascination with surgery never wavered. The precision, skill, and profound impact of surgery captivated me, and I resolved to make it my career.
Postgraduate Struggles and Triumphs
After completing MBBS, I faced a significant hurdle: securing admission to a postgraduate course in surgery. Despite opportunities in other specialties like ENT, Ophthalmology, and Anesthesia, I steadfastly waited for a chance to pursue general surgery. During this period, I got married to Selvi, my life partner and greatest supporter. Selvi’s unwavering encouragement and sacrifices played a pivotal role in my completing both my MS in General Surgery and MCh in Pediatric Surgery.
A Flourishing Surgical Career
My career took me through diverse and enriching experiences. I worked in prestigious corporate hospitals like TamilNad Hospitals and Apollo Hospitals and taught at renowned institutions such as M.S. Ramaiah Medical College, Bangalore, and Pondicherry Institute of Medical Sciences. Each role honed my skills and deepened my passion for both surgery and teaching.
The Malaysian Chapters
Malaysia became a transformative chapter in my life. From 1996 to 1998, I worked at University Hospital, Kuala Lumpur, where I gained expertise in neonatal and laparoscopic surgeries. These years were pivotal in shaping my surgical identity and expertise.
In 2014, I returned to Malaysia, this time focusing on teaching MBBS students in the General Surgery Department. This phase offered me the time and space to pursue a passion project: online surgical education.
The Birth of “Surgical Educator”
With the advent of digital platforms, I launched my YouTube channel, Surgical Educator, and a Spotify podcast to teach surgery to medical students and trainees. What began as a side endeavor grew exponentially. Today, the channel features 275 videos, boasts 68,000 subscribers, and has garnered over 4 million views. Through this platform, I’ve shared my knowledge and experience, reaching learners across the globe.
Looking Ahead
As I approach my retirement in October 2025, I’m filled with gratitude and excitement for the next phase of my life. Retirement will mark not an end but a new beginning. I plan to dedicate myself fully to online surgical education, creating more content to empower students and trainees. Additionally, I aim to assist NEET PG and NEET SS aspirants, offering them guidance and strategies for success.
Reflections on a Journey Well-Traveled
From the fields of Sithayankottai to lecture halls and operating rooms across the world, my journey has been one of perseverance and purpose. Each milestone—from the prophetic blessing at birth to the launch of a global teaching platform—is a testament to the power of dreams, hard work, and the unwavering support of loved ones.
As I pen this reflection, I am reminded of the countless lives I’ve touched as a surgeon and educator. But perhaps the most profound realization is that every success is a collective achievement, built on the foundation of family, mentors, colleagues, and students.
To those embarking on their own odyssey: stay true to your dreams, embrace challenges as opportunities, and never stop learning. The journey, as I’ve discovered, is the reward.
Thank you for walking with me through my surgical odyssey. I hope my story inspires you to chase your dreams with the same fervor that shaped my life.
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