Media Release
Mangaluru, Feb 10: A solemn condolence meeting was held on the February 10 at the Father Muller Knowledge Centre AV Hall to honor the life and monumental legacy of Dr Kundapura Sudhakar Shetty, the foundational pillar of the department of psychiatry at Father Muller Medical College. The gathering brought together management, faculty, students, and family members to pay tribute to a man who transformed the landscape of mental healthcare in the region.
Dr K S Shetty was the first psychiatrist to join Father Muller Charitable Institutions ever since the inception of the Psychiatry Ward in 1966 and rendered nearly 40 Years of dedicated service under tenure ship as a doctor while thereafter as a consultant doctor for 12 odd years, making it a long stint of treating patients at Father Muller.
The director of FMCI, Fr Faustine Lucas Lobo, highlighted Dr Shetty’s pivotal role in the institution's history. He noted that Dr Shetty was the first psychiatrist at Father Muller’s and was instrumental in securing the Charitable Institute status for FMMC. He undertook a revolutionary move by courageously incorporating a psychiatry ward into a general hospital set thus bridging the gap between mental and physical healthcare.
The grandson of the late legend, Prathyush Shetty, executive director, First Neuro Hospital shared touching vignettes from their family life. He recalled accompanying his grandfather on ward rounds as a child, witnessing first-hand the doctor’s dedication. He particularly moved the audience by mentioning that even until 2018, Dr Shetty continued to see patients, maintaining a symbolic and humble consultation fee of Rs 10, embodying the true spirit of service over profit.
The proceedings were facilitated by Dr Vaishnavi Ballal, senior resident in the department of psychiatry who was instrumental in organizing the programme. Dr Prithi Jain Professor, department of anaesthesiology spoke of various clinical settings and work ethics of Dr Shetty.
Dr Supriya Hegde Aroor, professor and head of the department of psychiatry offered a heartfelt tribute to her mentor and predecessor. She reminisced about the grace with which he conducted his rounds alongside the nursing sisters and staff. Describing him as a 'legend', she emphasized that his was a life of discipline and excellence that every medical professional should strive to emulate.
The programme concluded with a floral tribute by all those gathered.