On January 3, 2025, the Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences, Sevagram, observed the 25th death anniversary of the late Dr. Sushila Nayar, the revered founder-director of the institute. Shri PL Tapadia Ji (President, Kasturba Health Society), Dr. BS Garg (Secretary, Kasturba Health Society), Dr. Poonam Shivkumar Varma (Medical Superintendent, Kasturba Hospital) alongside faculty, staff, and students paid their respects by garlanding the portrait of Badi Behenji and offering floral tributes at Maatru-Sthal, reflecting on her lasting contributions to healthcare and the institute.
A multitude of admirers expressed their homage by bowing with folded hands and performing a parikrama around her memorial. To mark this occasion, an inclusive, all-religion prayer was organized. The audience recited the final 19 verses from the second chapter of the Shrimad Bhagavad Gita and sang hymns from the Upanishads, Quran, Japji Sahib, and Bible.
Dr. Sushila Nayar, affectionately known as ‘Badi Behenji,’ profoundly influenced lives during her tenure from 1969 to 2000. Known for her wisdom and spiritual insight, she regularly led Friday evening prayers, sharing life lessons that still resonate today. On this occasion, a recorded message of her voice inspired attendees to seek greatness by following the path of truth, compassion, and humility. She reminded the audience that true divinity resides within each individual, and by helping those in need, one can draw closer to God.
To commemorate her memory, the Department of Pathology organized its annual blood donation camp. The camp was inaugurated by Shri PL Tapadia Ji and Dr. BS Garg who lit the ceremonial lamp and garlanded the portraits of Ba, Bapu, and Badi Behenji. Dr. Anupama Gupta (Head of Pathology), Dr. VB Shivkumar (Director Professor of Pathology and Officer in-Charge, Blood Bank), faculty, and students actively participated. A total of 25 donors contributed 350 ml of blood each after completing health checks.