The Vice-President of India, Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan, today released the Hindi edition of ‘Palanivelu GUTS’, the autobiography of eminent surgeon Dr. C. Palanivelu, and described the book as an inspiring testament to courage, perseverance and ethical innovation in the field of medicine.
Speaking on the occasion, the Vice-President highlighted Dr. Palanivelu’s pioneering contributions to laparoscopic and robotic surgery, noting that his work has transformed surgical practices in India and earned global recognition. He observed that at a time when minimally invasive surgery was still in its infancy in the country, Dr. Palanivelu displayed exceptional vision and courage by embracing innovation in patient care.
Recalling the early days of laparoscopic surgery in India, the Vice-President noted that Dr. Palanivelu was among the first to recognise its potential in the early 1990s, even when the technique was met with scepticism. He said that Dr. Palanivelu introduced laparoscopic surgery at Coimbatore in 1991, establishing the first such centre in South India.
Referring to the title of the book, ‘Palanivelu GUTS’, the Vice-President said the autobiography is not merely the story of a successful surgeon, but the journey of a young man from humble beginnings who overcame resistance and setbacks through discipline, hard work and ethical conviction.
He added that a good society cannot be built unless the sincere efforts and exemplary contributions of individuals are recognised and appreciated. Reflecting on diversity of India, the Vice-President remarked that despite such diversities, India has remained one and will continue to remain one forever, bound by shared values and collective aspirations.
He underlined that the release of the Hindi edition is especially significant, as it will enable a wider section of society, particularly those who read in Hindi,to access and draw motivation from this remarkable life journey. Appreciating Dr. Palanivelu’s deep respect for his teachers and mentors, the Vice-President said that his practice of instituting awards in their names reflects India’s age-old tradition of reverence for “Gurus” and underscores the importance of humility and gratitude in the pursuit of excellence.
The Vice-President said that society plays a vital role in shaping every individual and that it is the duty of each person to give back to society. Commending Dr. Palanivelu’s efforts to train surgeons in remote areas and develop cost-effective surgical techniques, he noted that these initiatives have significantly expanded access to advanced medical care across socio-economic groups.
He expressed confidence that ‘Palanivelu GUTS’ would inspire generations to dream boldly, work with integrity and serve society selflessly. The event was attended by the Minister of State for Railways, Shri Ravneet Singh Bittu; Chairman, National Medical Commission, Dr. Abhijat Sheth; Chairman, Board of Governors, Inter-University Centre for Teacher Education, Prof. Dr. J. S. Rajput; and senior representatives of the GEM Hospital Group, among others.