Dr T.A.K. Rathnam, fondly known as the ‘10 rupee doctor,’ passed away on Saturday at the age of 96 in Pattukottai, Thanjavur. His unwavering commitment to affordable healthcare made him a beloved figure across generations.
Decades of Affordable Healthcare
For over five decades, Dr Rathnam charged a nominal fee for his medical services. He began by charging just Rs 2, later increasing it to Rs 5 in the 1990s, and eventually Rs 10 in 2010. Despite inflation and changing times, he never wavered from his mission to make healthcare accessible to all.
A Lifeline for Mothers and Newborns
As reported by TOI, throughout his career, Dr Rathnam handled numerous obstetric cases, offering either free or extremely low-cost care. Medical professionals estimate that he oversaw nearly 50,000 childbirths at his clinic. His compassionate service earned him several accolades over the years.
Early Life and Education
Born in 1929 in Ammaiyappan, Tiruvarur district, Dr Rathnam’s early years took him to Burma (now Myanmar) before his family settled in Pattukottai. He pursued his medical education at Madras Medical College and began his private practice in Pattukottai in the late 1950s.
A Life Guided by Principles
According to N. Selvam, a 68-year-old retired government school teacher and the author of Dr Rathnam’s biography, the doctor remained deeply committed to helping the poor. “He charged very minimally and worked without expectations,” Selvam recalled, highlighting Rathnam’s unwavering dedication to service.
A Legacy That Lives On
Dr T.A.K. Rathnam’s passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy of selfless service and compassion will continue to inspire generations of medical professionals and community caregivers.