Dr J Jayalalithaa’s little known facet – Part 2

During the ceremony, she donated her personal cheque for Rs 5,00,000/- as her contribution towards the cause. All formalities went ahead smoothly and we received total support right until we got dual power supply for the hospital up to the Compound wall and traffic light for the entire street. Two weeks before the inauguration I informed the Chief Minister that the approach road from Thirumangalam to MMM was bad. The road was widened, re-laid and a fish market encroachment at Thirumangalam was removed before the inauguration. She enhanced the image of Tamil Nadu amongst the over 150 foreign delegates. The world renowned Cardio Thoracic Surgeon Dr Christaan Bernard openly appreciated that the approach to the hospital was very impressive.

On 15th February 2004, I had gone to Kerala for the inauguration of our small unit. After the function I got a call from the CM’s office. I froze in surprise when I was told that she wanted to light the Kuthuvillakku at around 11.00 am on 18th February. We did not have time to even print Invitation cards. The next day I rushed back and sought an appointment with the Chief Minister. When I told her about the limited time line, she again surprised me saying, “You don’t need any advertisement. I will be there by 11.30 am.” 

All arrangements were quickly made to inaugurate Frontier Lifeline Hospital and the Chief Minister promptly reached there at 11.30 am on 18th February 2004. Her first question to me was, “Do you know why I chose today the 18th?” I asked whether 9 was her lucky number as most people suggested. She replied with a smile, “Today is Mahashivarathri and the auspicious time starts now.” 

She looked around the hospital and was impressed. Her next question was, “Do you want to build a hospital in the city, bigger than this to help more people through your Charitable Trust. I can help get 10 acres for you.” I replied that I would be unable to build another hospital right then, but would certainly be interested in contributing to medical science by starting a Basic Medical Science Park in a village. 

The next day, I got a call from the Thiruvallur Collector that Madam had instructed him to identify a land in Thiruvallur District. Her personal involvement exhibited her great interest in the science of medicine. She trusted me to fulfil my duty. There is in fact considerable financial pressure due to losses incurred. I have had to withstand immense pressure from all stakeholders included Banks and financial institutions to sell out the project Mediville. I am holding out in the hope of turning things around. 

Being a great visionary, she could foresee that this project could become the first medical SEZ in India.