Dr. T.A. Kanagarathinam, lovingly known as ‘Ten Rupees Doctor’, passed away at the age of 96 on Saturday at his residence in Pattukkottai, Thanjavur. He had been battling age-related ailments in recent years.

Fondly remembered for his unwavering service to the poor, Dr. Rathinam began treating patients in 1957. He initially charged ₹2 for consultations, which rose to ₹5 in 1968 when he opened his clinic on Big Street. By 1990, he settled on ₹10—an amount he never raised until his retirement from active service in 2020, earning him his now-famous moniker.

Over an extraordinary 68-year-long career, Dr. Rathinam assisted in over 65,000 childbirths. Many families, in tribute, named their children with the suffix “Rathinam.”

Dr. Rathinam’s philanthropy extended far beyond his clinic. During the Indo-China war, he donated 83 sovereigns of gold—his daughter’s wedding jewellery—to the national defense fund. And in the COVID-19 crisis, he waived rent for all tenants in his commercial complex, easing their financial burden.

A repatriate from Burma, he was known not only for his healing hands but also for his immense heart. His passing has left Pattukkottai in mourning, with countless citizens from all walks of life queuing to offer their final respects.

A people’s doctor, a patriot, and a philanthropist—Dr. TAK Rathinam’s legacy will endure for generations.