Meet Dr Prathap Reddy, 92-year-old who built India’s largest healthcare empire, owns 71 hospitals, 5000 pharmacy outlets still works daily, his net worth is Rs…
At an age when most people slow down, 92-year-old Dr. Prathap C. Reddy is still going strong, showing no signs of stepping back. The man behind Apollo Hospitals starts his day at 10 in the morning and works until 5 in the evening and six days a week. His routine, filled with energy and commitment, would put even younger professionals to shame. Dr. Reddy is the trailblazer who introduced India’s first corporate hospital i.e. Apollo Hospitals. His bold idea transformed the medical department by bringing top-quality healthcare within reach of millions. He dreamed of a time when Indians wouldn’t have to go abroad for advanced medical treatment and he made that dream come true.
Hailing from Chennai, Dr. Reddy earned his MBBS from Stanley Medical College and later went to the U.S. to specialize in cardiology. Though he could have built a successful life there, a heartfelt letter from his father in the early 1970s changed everything. It urged him to return to India and serve his homeland. That one decision laid the foundation for a revolution in Indian healthcare.
How the idea of Apollo Hospitals was born?
In 1979, the death of a patient in India caused by the lack of advanced medical facilities left a lasting impact on Dr. Prathap C. Reddy. That tragic moment became the spark that ignited a mission: to bring world-class healthcare to India. Dr. Reddy promised himself that no one should lose their life simply because quality treatment wasn’t available close to home.
What began as a single hospital has grown into one of India’s most trusted healthcare networks. Today, Apollo Hospitals operates 71 hospitals, over 5,000 pharmacies, nearly 300 primary care clinics, a widespread diagnostics network, and a growing digital health platform. It has become a lifeline for millions across the country, offering advanced care across various specialties.
Beyond healthcare, Apollo has a market capitalization of more than Rs. 70,000 crore, the company is both a medical and financial powerhouse. The Reddy family holds nearly a 30 per cent stake in the enterprise, highlighting their continued dedication to its vision and future.
Dr. Reddy’s net worth
According to Forbes, Dr. Reddy’s personal net worth stands at approximately Rs. 26,560 crore. Yet, despite his enormous success, he remains deeply grounded. For him, the goal has never been wealth, it has always been service. His financial achievements are simply the outcome of a purpose-driven life.
Dr. Reddy’s story is one of vision, compassion, and determination. In a past interview with Business Today, he said, “Success should make us humble and inspire us to do more for the country.” Even at 92, he lives by those words.
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