11/10/2025
When I walked into the interview room years ago in CMC, Vellore, I saw four total strangers. Later, when the selection list was announced, I realized that one of those “strangers” was none other than our department head — Dr. Suranjan Bhattacharjee.
During my student days at CMC Vellore, my interactions with him were brief. But when I joined the Spinal Injury Rehabilitation Department as staff, I had the privilege of working closely with him.
Dr. Bhattacharjee is a man of few words — yet every action of his speaks of , and quiet . His mind is brilliant, but his is what truly stands out. Beyond the subject , I learned , , and just by observing him.
He later went on to become the Director of CMC, Vellore. His wife, Dr. Sarah Bhattacharjee, is equally inspiring — once described by another Director, Dr. George Chandy, as “CMC’s Mother Teresa.”
After our relocation to India in 2006, I would occasionally see them at church or on the CMC campus. But two days ago, they visited The Hope House with their family and friends — and my joy knew no bounds.
As an orthopaedician and physiatrist, Dr. Bhattacharjee took keen interest in understanding the conditions of each of our special needs children. Before leaving, he gave me a long, heartfelt hug. With a lump in my throat, I could barely express how deeply he has influenced my life and career.
Thank you, Sir and Ma’am, for the lives you’ve touched and the example you continue to set. Your , compassion, and quiet leadership have left a lasting mark on many — myself included. 🙏