The world of medicine lost one of its tallest pillars on the day Padmashree Dr. S.R. Mehta left us. He wasn’t just a doctor or a principal — he was a living legend, a mentor who shaped generations, and for many of us, a father figure in a white coat.
Dr. Mehta belonged to the pioneering 1948 batch of SMS Medical College, Jaipur. What began as a student’s journey at this prestigious institution eventually led him back as its Principal. In the medical fraternity, he was affectionately called the “Godfather” — not because he demanded respect, but because he earned it through his sharp clinical acumen, unwavering ethics, and deep commitment to both patients and students.
I had the rare fortune of being his student and, in many ways, his disciple.
The Day a Rule Was Changed
In 1986-87, I was in my seventh semester when I decided to contest for the post of College President. The rule was clear and ancient: only final-year students could contest. A group of us mustered the courage to approach Dr. Mehta.
We stood nervously outside his office as his tall, imposing figure approached. His walk itself commanded attention — brisk, purposeful, like a king entering his court.
“Sir, we want to speak to you about the election rules,” I said, trying to sound confident.
Dr. Mehta stopped, raised an eyebrow, and asked in his deep, authoritative voice,
“What is the problem, gentlemen?”
“Sir, the rule says only outgoing batch students can contest. But how can a final-year student truly work for the welfare of the entire college? He’ll be busy preparing to leave. We believe every student should have the right to contest so that real work can be done for the student community.”
He listened quietly, stroking his chin. After a long pause, he said,
“This rule has been in place since 1947, when the college was established.”
We stood our ground. “Sir, rules are made for students, not students for rules. Times have changed.”
Dr. Mehta looked at us intently, then gave a slight nod.
“Come to my office this evening. We will discuss.”
That same night, he called a special meeting and changed the rule. Any student could now contest. Because of that single decision, I was able to run — and win. From that day, our relationship moved beyond principal and student. He became my guide and supporter.
The Darkest Chapter
The toughest time of my life came during my internship. My father was suddenly diagnosed with cancer. His passing shattered me completely. I felt lost, directionless, and broken.
One of my seniors and dear friends, Dr. Praveen Mangalonia, suggested, “PK, why don’t you start a diagnostic centre? You have the vision and the drive.”
The idea excited me, but fear gripped me. Who would guide me? Who would believe in me at this stage?
Without thinking twice, one name came to my mind — Dr. S.R. Mehta.
I went to him with a trembling heart and explained my situation. After listening patiently, he looked straight into my eyes and said warmly:
“Beta, this is an excellent idea. You must do it. And don’t worry — I will be there for the inauguration.”
His words were like a lifeline. True to his word, Dr. Mehta came to the opening of my centre. He didn’t just cut the ribbon and leave. He stayed for nearly three hours, walking around, examining every machine, talking to the staff, and boosting my morale.
At one point, he put his hand on my shoulder and said,
“PK, life will throw its biggest tests at you. Your father’s departure is one such test. But remember — the answer is always to keep moving forward. I have full faith in you.”
Those words, spoken with such affection and conviction, healed something deep inside me. In that moment, he wasn’t just a senior doctor or principal — he was a teacher protecting and uplifting his disciple.
Dr. S.R. Mehta was a man of scholarship, simplicity, discipline, and immense compassion. His fast-paced walk, his commanding presence, and his caring heart left an indelible mark on everyone who met him.
Today, thousands of his students are serving across India and the world, carrying forward his legacy of excellence and ethics. For me personally, he was much more than a mentor. He was my idol, my inspiration, and a living example that one person can truly light up countless lives.
Padmashree Dr. S.R. Mehta may have left this world, but the light he kindled in all of us will keep burning — brightly and forever.
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