Dr. Appaji Gowda
“Bringing vision to both your eyes and your aspirations”
Former President - Rajya Vokkaligara Sangha
Dr. Appaji Gowda, was born in the year 1956, into a poor family in Virupasandra Village near Kabbalamma Temple (Border between Kanakapura and Channapatna Taluk). Coming from humble beginnings, he faced the challenges of poverty and a lack of electricity in his village, he decided to work very hard, make the best use of the resources at his disposal and create something meaningful.
In 1974, he secured a free medical seat at the prestigious Mysore Medical College and later pursued his master’s degree in Ophthalmology at the Bangalore Medical College. He went on to become a lecturer at the Kempegowda Institute of Medical Sciences in the year 1982.
About Dr. Appaji Gowda
Dr. Appaji Gowda’s entry into politics began during his tenure at Kempegowda Institute of Medical Sciences, run by the Vokkaligara Sangha. Inspired by the honesty and sincerity of Prof. Venkatagiri Gowda (Director and Elected MP from Bengaluru South), He rose through the ranks from Lecturer to the Head of Department all the way to becoming Principal.
Year 2002, was a big one for Dr. Appaji Gowda, having contested in the Vokkaligara Sangha elections, came out victorious, becoming President. During his tenure as President, He brought about significant improvements, turning an organisation that was previously operating at a loss into one that registered profits. In court, he fought against the land mafia with political backing (Some Sangha Directors with vested interests), who had entered into an illegal agreement for the Sajjepalya land (A valuable asset owned by the Sangha). Dr. Appaji emerged victorious after a long legal battle in the Supreme Court to save the land.
The land mafia and their political allies created turmoil in the Sangha through nurses’ strikes and employee agitation. Despite the adversity, Dr. Appaji Gowda continued to persevere, prioritising and upholding the interests of the Sangha.
His dedication to public service extended beyond his work at the Sangha. To mention a few, he conducted over 2 lakh surgeries during his four decades of practice and represented India at various international conferences.
Corrupt Politicians and the short memories of the public have made his life difficult. Through it all, he has never compromised on his principles, always putting the needs of the people first.
Despite the hardships in his life, he has always lived a life of honesty and hard work, continuing to improve the lives of those around him. Today, Dr. Appaji Gowda’s life serves as an inspiration to all who value honesty and hard work.
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