A Story Beyond Surgical Success
Addressing the gathering, the Vice-President said the autobiography is not merely a chronicle of professional success but the life journey of a man who rose from humble beginnings through discipline, hard work and ethical conviction. He underlined that recognising individual effort and excellence is essential for building a strong and harmonious society.
Referring to the title of the book, Shri Radhakrishnan remarked that ‘Palanivelu GUTS’ symbolises not just surgical expertise but moral courage the willingness to innovate, challenge convention and put patient welfare above all else.
Pioneer of Minimally Invasive Surgery
The Vice-President highlighted Dr. Palanivelu’s pioneering role in laparoscopic and robotic surgery, noting that his contributions transformed surgical practices in India and earned global recognition. At a time when minimally invasive surgery was still viewed with scepticism, Dr. Palanivelu showed extraordinary vision by adopting and promoting new techniques.
Recalling the early 1990s, Shri Radhakrishnan said Dr. Palanivelu was among the first surgeons in India to recognise the potential of laparoscopic surgery. In 1991, he introduced laparoscopic procedures in Coimbatore, establishing the first such centre in South India and paving the way for wider adoption across the country.
Unity in Diversity: A Timeless Indian Value
Reflecting on India’s social and cultural diversity, the Vice-President asserted that the nation has remained united despite its many differences. “India has remained one and will continue to remain one forever,” he said, attributing this unity to shared values, mutual respect and collective aspirations.
He noted that the release of the Hindi edition holds special significance, as it allows a much wider readership to access the inspiring story. Making such works available in Indian languages, he said, strengthens national integration and spreads positive role models across society.
Respect for Gurus and Ethical Values
Appreciating Dr. Palanivelu’s deep respect for his teachers and mentors, Shri Radhakrishnan said that instituting awards in their names reflects India’s age-old tradition of reverence for “Gurus.” Such humility and gratitude, he observed, are essential traits for sustained excellence in any field.
The Vice-President emphasised that ethical values must guide professional achievement, especially in sensitive fields such as healthcare, where trust and compassion are as important as technical skill.
Duty to Give Back to Society
Stating that society plays a crucial role in shaping individuals, the Vice-President said every person has a responsibility to give back. He commended Dr. Palanivelu’s efforts to train surgeons in remote areas and develop cost-effective surgical techniques, which have expanded access to advanced medical care for economically weaker sections.
These initiatives, he said, demonstrate how professional success can be aligned with social responsibility, creating long-term impact beyond personal achievement.
Distinguished Dignitaries in Attendance
The book release event was attended by several eminent personalities, including Minister of State for Railways Shri Ravneet Singh, Chairman of the National Medical Commission Dr. Abhijat Sheth, and Chairman of the Board of Governors, Inter-University Centre for Teacher Education, Prof. Dr. J. S. Rajput.
Senior representatives of the GEM Hospital Group and members of the medical fraternity were also present, reflecting the wide respect Dr. Palanivelu commands across institutions.
An Inspiration for Future Generations
Concluding his address, the Vice-President expressed confidence that ‘Palanivelu GUTS’ would inspire generations to dream boldly, work with integrity and serve society selflessly. He described the autobiography as a reminder that lasting success is built on courage, ethics and a commitment to the greater good.
The event reaffirmed the importance of celebrating individual excellence while reinforcing the collective values that bind the nation together.
