Prathap Chandra Reddy (born 5 February 1933) is an Indian cardiologist, entrepreneur, and the founder of Apollo Hospitals, India’s first corporate hospital chain. He is widely regarded as a pioneer in modern healthcare in India and has played a vital role in transforming access to quality medical services across the country.
Key Information
| Full Name | Prathap Chandra Reddy |
| Date of Birth | February 5, 1933 |
| Age | 92 years (as of 2025) |
| Birthplace | Aragonda, Madras Presidency, British India (now Andhra Pradesh, India) |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Profession | Cardiologist, Entrepreneur |
| Known For | Founder of Apollo Hospitals |
| Net Worth | $3.52 billion (as of October 9, 2024) |
| Spouse | Sucharitha Reddy |
| Children | Preetha Reddy, Sangita Reddy, Suneeta Reddy, Shobana Kamineni |
| Grandchildren | Includes Upasana Kamineni (married to actor Ram Charan) |
| First Apollo Hospital | Opened in Chennai, 1983 |
| Leadership Role | Chairman, Apollo Hospitals Enterprise Ltd. |
| Awards | Padma Bhushan (1991), Padma Vibhushan (2010), Lions Humanitarian Award (2018) |
| Net Worth | $3.52 Billion (2024, Forbes) |
| Rank in India (Wealth) | 94th richest Indian (2024) |
| Other Roles | Mentor, Philanthropist, Public Health Advocate |
| Notable Quote | “Healthcare is a basic right, not a privilege.” |
Early Life and Education
Dr. Prathap C. Reddy was born on February 5, 1933, in Aragonda, a village in present-day Andhra Pradesh, India. He pursued his medical degree at Stanley Medical College in Chennai. Furthering his education, Dr. Reddy trained as a cardiologist in the United Kingdom and the United States. He completed a fellowship at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston and led research programs at the Missouri State Chest Hospital before returning to India.
Family Background
Dr. Reddy is married to Sucharitha Reddy, and they have four daughters:
- Preetha Reddy: Serves as Executive Vice Chairperson of Apollo Hospitals.
- Sangita Reddy: Holds the position of Joint Managing Director at Apollo Hospitals.
- Suneeta Reddy: Acts as the Managing Director of Apollo Hospitals.
- Shobana Kamineni: Serves as the Executive Vice Chairperson of Apollo Hospitals.
All four daughters play pivotal roles in the management and expansion of the Apollo Hospitals Group. Notably, Dr. Reddy’s granddaughter, Upasana Kamineni, is married to actor Ram Charan, a prominent figure in Telugu cinema.
Career Highlights
In 1983, Dr. Reddy founded Apollo Hospitals in Chennai, establishing India’s first corporate chain of hospitals. Under his leadership, Apollo Hospitals has expanded to operate a network of over 70 hospitals and more than 6,000 pharmacies across India. The institution is renowned for introducing advanced medical technologies and high standards of healthcare in the country.
Dr. Reddy has been instrumental in shaping healthcare policy in India. He played a pivotal role in establishing organizations such as NATHEALTH, a forum aimed at fostering positive changes in healthcare policies, and GAPIO (Global Association of Physicians of Indian Origin), a network connecting Indian-origin physicians worldwide.
Philanthropy and Social Initiatives
A dedicated philanthropist, Dr. Reddy introduced several social initiatives to transcend healthcare barriers. Notable among them is the Save a Child’s Heart Initiative, addressing congenital heart disease in India. Additionally, he championed the Total Health Foundation, aiming to uplift individuals holistically—physically, mentally, emotionally, financially, and spiritually—building inclusive communities. The Total Health program in Aragonda has achieved significant results, recognized by institutions like the Harvard School of Public Health.
Net Worth
As per Forbes’ list of India’s 100 richest tycoons, dated October 9, 2024, Dr. Prathap C. Reddy is ranked 94th with a net worth of $3.52 billion.
Awards and Recognitions
Dr. Reddy’s contributions to healthcare have been acknowledged with several prestigious awards:
- Padma Bhushan (1991): Awarded by the Government of India for distinguished service.
- Padma Vibhushan (2010): India’s second-highest civilian award, recognizing exceptional service.
- Lions Humanitarian Award (2018): Conferred for his efforts in increasing accessibility and affordability of world-class healthcare.
- Lifetime Achievement Awards (2022): Bestowed by Forbes India, The Economic Times, and Business Standard for his transformative impact on India’s healthcare landscape.
Legacy and Impact
Dr. Prathap C. Reddy is widely regarded as a pioneer who transformed India’s healthcare landscape by introducing the corporate hospital model. His vision made quality healthcare accessible to a broader segment of the Indian population. Beyond healthcare, his philanthropic initiatives have contributed significantly to community development and preventive healthcare awareness.
Interesting facts about Dr. Prathap C. Reddy
Founded India’s first private corporate hospital in 1983.
He was inspired to start Apollo after a tragic patient experience.
All four daughters are in key leadership roles at Apollo.
From a small village, he built a globally respected healthcare brand.
Granddaughter Upasana is married to superstar Ram Charan.
Apollo Hospitals was the first in India to receive JCI accreditation.
Promotes preventive healthcare and wellness awareness.
Co-founded GAPIO to connect Indian-origin doctors globally.
Received global praise and lifetime achievement honors.
Despite being a billionaire, his mission remains “Healthcare for All.”
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