The Overpowering Inner Voice and Action as Resistance
Dr. CMK – An Inspiring Story
“There is a voice inside of you…”
That whispers all day long.
‘I feel this is right for me,
I know that this is wrong.’No teacher, preacher, parent, friend or wise man can decide what’s right for you—just listen to the voice that speaks inside.
— Shel Silverstein
Introduction
For Dr. CMK, this inner voice has always been the guiding force. Over the years, he has become a beacon of hope and service to countless people—especially the underserved sections of society.
A Chennai-based surgeon known for his kindness, compassion and intellect, Dr. CMK has consistently championed the cause of the indigent. His popularity within medical, bureaucratic and social circles stems from his relentless commitment to service.
This is the story of the legacy he continues to build.
Early Years
Growing up in a family of service-minded doctors, CMK was deeply influenced by the selfless work of his father, Prof. CMK Reddy, and his uncle, Dr. C. Mohan Reddy. Both were pioneers in offering zero-cost healthcare and education to disadvantaged communities in Chennai.
Blessed with diverse experiences, CMK often recalls Newton’s famous words:
“If I have seen further, it is by standing on the shoulders of giants.”
Though he lived a life of comfort as a boy, he was acutely aware of societal inequalities. His belief in social democracy took root early, shaping his journey toward building a fair and just society.
A Vision for Humanity
CMK’s philosophy revolves around touching lives with humility and sincerity.
He insists:
“As you touch a human soul, be just another human soul, regardless of your mastery in theory and technique.”
Quoting Socrates, he adds:
“An unexamined life is not worth living.”
This introspective approach guides his actions toward meaningful change.
His Early Work
Beginning his career as a bariatric surgeon, CMK quickly expanded his horizons by taking on leadership roles in organizations such as Apollo, Lifeline, and Be Well.
Collaborating with experts across fields, he developed a deep understanding of how to create inclusive, sustainable systems that uplift marginalized communities.
Whether responding to disasters or driving institutional change, his work has left a transformative impact on Chennai and beyond.
Tsunami & Chennai Floods
Both disasters caused massive displacement, loss and despair.
CMK and his team organized medical camps, rehabilitation efforts and livelihood support for fisherfolk along the West Coast and up to Pondicherry. Their work brought stability and hope to thousands affected by nature’s fury.
Architect of the Chennai Covid Warriors
The pandemic exposed India’s gaps in healthcare infrastructure.
In response, CMK mobilized 300+ medical specialists from his alumni network to form Chennai Covid Warriors (CCW) — a movement that provided medical aid, equipment, digital support, and a high-efficiency call center that served nearly 75,000 people in distress.
The organization was honored with the Medical Excellence Award by the World Tamil Chamber of Commerce.
Work with Children
Dr. CMK has consistently focused on empowering children from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Key Initiatives
Established 13 functional classrooms for displaced and out-of-school children in collaboration with Hope Foundation School.
Enabled 140 cleft-lip and cleft-palate surgeries at zero cost.
Actively supports ‘Child’, an organization helping children affected by HIV.
Serves as Correspondent & Secretary of SKDT, Villivakkam, guiding academic progress for 900+ students from linguistic minority communities.
His vision is to ensure that every child receives accessible, equitable, and nurturing educational opportunities.
A Life Beyond Accolades
Awards matter little to CMK. For him, service is a mission.
A single smile on a once-distressed face is his true reward.
He believes social work must evolve into a structured, integrated approach focusing on education, healthcare and community empowerment.
With unwavering commitment and courage, he continues bringing marginalized individuals to the forefront—true to the spirit of the Chillakuru talisman.
The Saga Continues
Not an hour passes in his active life without thinking of the marginalized.
He believes that collective effort multiplies impact and leaves lasting footprints for generations to follow.
Inspired Yet?
Reach out to the misrepresented today.
But don’t do it alone — think again.
Jai Hind!