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Key Points

Kerala's beloved 'Two-Rupee Doctor' Rairu Gopal passed away at 80, leaving behind a legacy of affordable healthcare. For five decades, he charged just ₹2 per consultation, treating over 18 lakh patients. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan praised him as a "people's doctor" who brought immense relief to the poor. Known for his early morning clinics, Dr. Gopal was celebrated for his fatherly care and dedication.

Key Points: Kerala's Beloved Two-Rupee Doctor Rairu Gopal Dies at 80

  • Dr. Rairu Gopal treated over 18 lakh patients in his lifetime
  • Charged just ₹2 per consultation for 50 years
  • Honored with IMA's best family doctor award
  • Started consultations at 3 am for students and workers
2 min read

Kerala: Kannur's beloved 'two-rupee doctor' Rairu Gopal passes away at 80

Kerala mourns the loss of Dr. Rairu Gopal, who treated 18 lakh patients for just ₹2, earning him the title 'Two-Rupee Doctor'.

"For half a century, he charged only two rupees for consultations, making healthcare accessible to all. – CM Pinarayi Vijayan"

Kannur, August 3

Kerala's popular doctor, Rairu Gopal, known to provide health care services at a modest fee to people, died on Sunday. He was 80.

The doctor earned the sobriquet 'Two Rupee Doctor' as he often took just that much as his consulting fee from patients. The doctor, who left his mark on the field of healthcare services, was honoured with the IMA award for the best family doctor in the state. During his career, the doctor provided his noble service to more than 18 lakh patients.

Earlier today, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan described doctor Rairu Gopal "as the people's doctor," noting that his readiness to serve for such a nominal fee was a source of immense relief for poor patients.

"For half a century, he charged only two rupees for consultations, making healthcare accessible to all. His willingness to serve was a great comfort to countless patients," the Chief Minister said, according to the Public Relations Officer (PRO).

Doctor Gopal was known to start consultations from 3 am in a manner that was convenient for students and workers alike. Seeing hundreds of patients daily. For many patients he was more than a doctor as he often provided them with the care of a father or brother.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
My grandfather used to visit him regularly. He would often say "Doctor saab never treated us like patients, but like family members." That's the kind of healthcare we need more of in India.
K
Karthik V
While his service was commendable, it's sad that our system forces doctors to choose between ethics and survival. The government should ensure proper compensation for such noble professionals.
S
Sarah B
As someone who recently visited Kerala, I'm amazed by stories like this. In many countries, we've lost this personal touch in medicine. Dr. Gopal's life should be taught in medical schools worldwide.
A
Arjun K
Starting consultations at 3 AM! That's next level dedication. In today's world where doctors charge 500-1000 just for 5 minutes, Dr. Gopal was truly a gem. Kerala has lost a real hero today.
D
Divya L
My mother used to tell me stories about how he would sometimes return the 2 rupees if he saw the patient was too poor. Such humanity! We need to build a memorial for this great soul.

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