Launch of the Hindi edition of ‘Palanivelu GUTS’ the autobiography of Prof. Dr. C. Palanivelu

I touch and salute the holy feet of Bharat Mata – the Most Powerful and the Most Merciful.

Hon’ble Union Minister of Coal and Mines, Government of India, Shri G. Kishan Reddy Ji, Hon’ble Minister of State for Railways, Government of India, Shri Ravneet Singh Ji, Chairman, GEM Hospital Group, Dr. C. Palanivelu, Chairman, Board of Governors, Inter University Centre for Teacher Education (IUC-TE), Varanasi, Prof. Dr. J. S. Rajput, Chairman, National Medical Commission, Dr. Abhijat Sheth CEO, GEM Hospital Group Dr. P. Praveen Raj, and others.

I am pleased to be part of this meaningful occasion—the launch of the Hindi edition of ‘Palanivelu GUTS’, the autobiography of Prof. Dr. C. Palanivelu. Dr. C. Palanivelu is a name that stands tall not only in Indian medicine but on the global surgical map. His pioneering work in laparoscopic and robotic surgery has transformed surgical practice, trained thousands of surgeons, and most importantly, saved countless lives. At a time when minimally invasive surgery was still in its infancy in our country, he had the courage to dream differently, to challenge convention, and to push the boundaries of what was thought impossible. The various awards, including Dr. B.C. Roy award, honorary fellowships, and accolades from surgical societies across the world are a testament to the global impact of his work.

Dr.  Palanivelu has written in his book that he first heard about laparoscopy in 1990 when most senior surgeons were dismissive and skeptical about it. He however had the vision and foresight to see the importance of this new surgical technique. Let me quote from his book, “With due respect to my seniors, I couldn’t brush aside the new development as a flash in the pan. In fact, right from the beginning, I had a hunch that laparoscopy was going to make a tremendous impact in the field of surgery.” Dr.  Palanivelu followed his conviction and vision by spending all his resources and taking loans to go to Singapore for a training programme in laparoscopy. I take pride in saying that after his return from Singapore, Dr. Palanivelu introduced laparoscopic surgery in South India for the first time at Coimbatore in 1991. Even remarkable is the fact that it was second such centre in the country being next only to Mumbai.

Dr.  Palanivelu’s first surgery in Coimbatore had been on a 38-year-old patient. Dr. Palanivelu made history by removing the gallbladder from the patient’s body through a small incision. This was the first surgery of its kind in South India. The title of this book ‘Palanivelu GUTS’is deeply symbolic. This autobiography is not merely the story of a surgeon; it is the story of a young man who rose from humble beginnings, faced resistance and setbacks, yet remained unwavering in his belief that innovation backed by discipline and ethics can change the world. The humility and hard work of Dr. Palanivelu right from his student days is deeply reflected in these lines from his book, I quote “It is said, Genius is 90 per cent perspiration and 10 per cent inspiration. I knew from the beginning that I am not a genius and hence decided to make it 100 per cent perspiration.”

I find this book truly remarkable as it does not focus only on success but also speaks openly about struggles, setbacks, and the courage required to overcome them. While reading the book I also came to know that Dr. Palanivelu has instituted awards in the names of his teachers and all those who helped in his education. His tribute to his teachers is a reflection of his humility and of his respect and regard for his “Gurus” as per our ancient traditions. Over the years he has ensured that knowledge is shared, multiplied, and carried forward. It is commendable that he has trained surgeons in remote areas. The cost effective techniques developed by him have gone a long way in providing advanced medical treatments across all socio-economic groups. The launch of the Hindi version of this book is especially significant. By making this inspiring journey available in Hindi, more and more students, young doctors, teachers, and readers across the country will be able to draw motivation from Dr. Palanivelu’s life regardless of their background or region. This book carries powerful lessons That excellence is built through hard work and perseverance, That innovation requires courage and responsibility; And that true success lies in service to society. This book is a reminder that greatness is not inherited it is earned through determination and integrity.

On behalf of everyone present here, and my own behalf, I congratulate Dr. Palanivelu and the entire publishing team for bringing out this Hindi edition. I am confident that “Palanivelu GUTS” will inspire generations to dream boldly, work honestly, and serve selflessly. I wish the book immense success and hope it reaches every corner of our nation. Jai Hind! Long Live Mother Bharat!