Dr. J. G. Shanmuganathan, born on October 30, 1931, in Sivagiri, Erode taluk, was a prominent figure in the medical field and social service. He completed his education, including MBBS in 1954, and started his medical career in Coimbatore in 1956. In 1970, after specializing in Anesthesiology in London, he became Coimbatore’s first qualified anesthetist.
His vision led to the founding of Ganga Hospital in 1972, providing surgical support with qualified anesthetists. Joined by his accomplished sons, Dr. S. Rajasabapathy and Dr. S. Rajasekaran, the hospital evolved into a renowned 650-bed tertiary care super-speciality center for Orthopedics and Plastic Surgery.
Dr. Shanmuganathan’s devotion to Tamil Literature and Mahakavi Bharathiyar led him to pursue a Ph.D. at Bharathiyar University at 80, successfully obtaining it at 82. His research was compiled into the book ‘Bharathi Endroru Manudan,’ well-received by scholars.
He played an active role in the Indian Medical Association for nearly 45 years and contributed to the establishment of an expanded building. Driven by social initiatives, he co-founded and established ‘CHESHIRE HOME’ with Dr. Major Rao in 1969, a refuge for the physically disabled and terminally ill. He also established a Senior Citizens’ Home in 2002 and initiated a ‘Senior Citizens Day Care Centre’ in Kavundampalayam, promoting elderly well-being.
Beyond his medical contributions, he had interests in music, Tamil literature, acting, and writing articles and poems. Dr. J. G. Shanmuganathan’s legacy exemplifies how dedication and hard work can transcend age barriers, leaving an enduring impact. Our society has suffered a great loss in his demise.
