Dr. Prathap C Reddy, the 92-year-old founder of Apollo Hospitals, is a shining example of dedication and passion. Despite his advanced age, he continues to work full-time, arriving at his office at 10 am sharp and working until 5 pm, six days a week. His commitment to his work is a testament to his enduring passion for healthcare and his desire to make a positive impact on his country.
Born in Chennai, Dr. Reddy studied medicine at Stanley Medical College and later trained as a cardiologist in the United States. However, he returned to India in the 1970s, driven by a sense of duty to serve his nation. A personal experience in 1979, where a patient died due to a lack of proper medical facilities, became a turning point in his life. This incident sparked his vision to establish a hospital that would provide world-class treatment in India, eliminating the need for patients to travel abroad for quality care.
Today, Apollo Hospitals is a massive healthcare network with 71 hospitals across India, over 5,000 pharmacies, 291 primary care clinics, and a digital health platform. The company has a market value of Rs 70,000 crore, with Dr. Reddy’s family owning 29.3% of the business. Despite his immense success and wealth, Dr. Reddy remains humble, attributing his achievements to humility and a sense of responsibility to give back to his country.
Dr. Reddy’s life is an inspiration to generations, demonstrating that age is not a barrier to leadership and that passion and purpose can drive individuals to achieve great things, regardless of their age. His legacy serves as a reminder that true success comes from a combination of ambition, compassion, and meaningful work. As a pioneer in the healthcare industry, Dr. Reddy’s dedication and commitment to his work continue to make a positive impact on the lives of millions of people, and his story is a testament to the power of passion and purpose.