Dr. Ashok Rajgopal: The Scalpel, The Soul, and the Song

“Because every story deserves to be told.”

When a man holds a scalpel in his hand and a song in his heart, he isn’t just a surgeon—he is an artist of life.

Dr. Ashok Rajgopal, one of India’s most respected orthopedic surgeons and a recipient of the Padma Shri, isn’t just a man of medicine. He’s a man of reflection, rebellion, and remarkable resilience. With over 55,000 surgeries under his belt, what sets him apart isn’t just precision—it’s passion, purpose, and philosophy.

In this rare, heartfelt conversation, Dr. Rajgopal reflects on medicine, mindset, and meaning.

A Childhood Carved in Simplicity

Dr. Rajgopal’s story begins in a humble police officer’s home. Simplicity ruled—no frills, no fanfare. His father once dreamed of being a doctor but never became one. That dream quietly passed to his son.

“My father wanted to serve,” he says. “I just fulfilled that desire through my own life.”

The Rebel with a Cause

Growing up in a strict household sparked his curiosity and courage. “Why should I do that?” was his go-to question. It wasn’t rebellion—it was independent thought. That spark shaped his bold career in surgery.

Becoming a Surgeon: More Grit Than Glamour

From AFMC to FRCS in Liverpool, the early days weren’t easy. Just 345 surgeries in his first 10 years.

“In today’s time, people would’ve called that a failure,” he reflects. “But I wasn’t here for speed. I was here for service.”

Speed vs Substance: A Lesson for the Youth

True growth takes time. He shares how his son, guided by a professor, chose a place to stand out rather than blend in—and how that lesson applies to everyone chasing “overnight success.”

Mental Health, Pressure, and the Kota Crisis

He worries about the rising suicide rate among students—trapped by pressure, robbed of joy.

“Let them climb trees. Let them fail. Let them breathe.”

Love, Life, and Learning to Live Fully

To him, love is essential to being human. He draws lessons from Steve Jobs’ final moments—lonely despite all success.

“If that doesn’t move you,” he says, “then there’s hollowness in your success.”

Faith, Fear, and Finding God

His faith isn’t ritualistic—it’s real. Especially in the operating room when the unexpected happens. His strength? Lord Krishna and the peace of Guruvayur Temple.

Fearless… Eventually

Once scared of MRIs, water, and heights—he didn’t let fear win. Instead, he skydived, trekked, bungee-jumped and dived into courage.

“I didn’t want to live scared,” he says. “Now, very few things frighten me.”

Recognition and Reflection: The Padma Shri Moment

The award call left him in disbelief. But his response was all heart.

“I dedicate this award to myself, my family, and to every patient who trusted me.”

A Doctor’s Heart, A Philosopher’s Mind

His rules for life:

• Be honest—with yourself and others.
• Treat others how you wish to be treated.
• Keep a hobby—because work can leave, but passion stays.

During COVID, he uploaded 90 harmonica songs. “Music heals,” he smiles.

Work-Life Balance: A Myth? Not Really

“When I’m in surgery, I’m only in surgery. When I’m enjoying music, I give it my all. That’s the key.”

A Surgeon’s Soul

Every patient is a story. A hope. A responsibility.

“I don’t aim for perfection. I aim for healing.”

The Final Word: The Voice Within

“Listen to the voice within. It’s calm. It’s clear. It never shouts, but it always knows.”

And in that voice lies the real inspiration—not just to succeed, but to become whole.