NRI PULSE STAFF REPORT
Atlanta, GA, July 28, 2025: The Georgia Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (GAPI) hosted its spectacular 36th Annual Convention & Scientific Assembly from July 18–20, 2025, at the elegant Gas South Convention Center, Gwinnett transforming the weekend into a true celebration by physicians, for physicians.
Under the dynamic leadership of GAPI President Dr. Lalitha Medepalli, and EC Dr. Raj Alappan, Dr. Vishal Sharma, Dr. Satish Cheti, Appavuchetty Soundappan, MD, Dr. Jai Surana and Dr. Sreeni Gangasani, Convention Chair, Dr. Syamala Erramilli, and Dr. Raghu Lolabhattu, GAPI Advisor 24-25, this year’s convention reflected GAPI’s mission to honor the dedication, service, and talent of physicians across Georgia. The three-day event blended scientific excellence, community service, new networking initiatives, and dazzling cultural performances, leaving attendees inspired and deeply connected.
An Evening of Song, Solidarity, and Service
The festivities opened Friday evening with a lively Gala Dinner and Entertainment Night, where physician-singers captivated the audience alongside professional artists. This musical prelude set the tone for the convention, underscoring the community’s spirit of togetherness.
Saturday: CME, Advocacy, and New Networking Initiatives
The second day began with a traditional Indian breakfast and chai, followed by a Continuing Medical Education (CME) session, chaired by Dr. Sudha Tata, awarding credits to participating physicians. During lunch, attendees joined a “lunch and learn” on innovative therapies in atrial fibrillation, presented by Dr. Alok Gambhir.
Notably, this year introduced two new initiatives:
- The Physician & Practices Meet and Greet, fostering professional networking and practice building.
- GAPI at Advocacy – Meet Your State Legislatures, moderated by Dr. Medepalli and Johns Creek Councilman Bob Erramilli, connecting members directly with policymakers.
Distinguished guests included legislators Representative Scott Hilton, Representative Carter Barrett, Representative Matt Reeves, Senator Shawn Still, and Senator Timothy J. Bearden and Chairman of the Fulton County Board of Commissioners Robb Pitts. Their presence reflected GAPI’s growing voice in healthcare policy and advocacy at the state level.
Saturday Gala Night: Recognizing Leadership and Legacy
The grand Saturday evening gala commenced with a Lamp Lighting Ceremony, symbolically led by Dr. Medepalli, GAPI BOT Chair Dr. Sreeni Gangasani, Convention Convenor Dr. Syamala Erramilli, and dignitaries: Congressman Dr. Rich McCormick, Hon` Consul General of India Shri Ramesh Babu Lakshmanan, AMA President Dr. Bobby Mukkamala, and MAG President Dr. Debi Dalton, and Commissioner John F. King. Moving renditions of the U.S. and Indian national anthems by MSRF members added cultural pride and solemnity to the occasion.
In her presidential address, Dr. Medepalli reflected on a year dedicated to advancing programs for physicians, patients, and youth, highlighting GAPI’s commitment to excellence and service.
Three exceptional leaders were honored:
- Dr. Sujatha Reddy received the GAPI Lifetime Achievement Community Service Excellence Award for decades of organizing health fairs for underserved populations.
- Dr. Raghu Lolabhattu received the GAPI Legacy Award.
- Dr. Syamala Erramilli was recognized for her tireless leadership as Convention Chair.
Celebrating Community Giving
In a touching demonstration of community spirit, GAPI presented a $5,000 donation to Hope Clinic, a $1,000 donation to the Georgia Indian Nurses Association (GINA), and awarded three YPPI scholarships of $1,000 each to support the next generation of medical leaders.
Spotlighting Talent and Tradition
The night unfolded into a vibrant cultural celebration featuring group dances, a classical Kathak performance, Madhuri Dixit Medley and musical showcases by physician groups representing Marietta, Atlanta, and Stockbridge. The Dopamine Dancing Divas brought infectious energy to the stage, symbolizing unity and joy among physician performers. A spontaneous flash mob added a playful twist, delighting guests.
Adding elegance to the evening, the Woven Journeys Through India fashion show paid tribute to India’s timeless saree tradition. Over 40 physicians walked the ramp in rich weaves from regions like Banaras, Kanchipuram, Paithani, Mysore, Patola, Chanderi, Gadwal, Zari Kota, and Mangalagiri, each highlighted with imagery of historic temples, ghats, and cultural landmarks. This celebration honored not only heritage but the shared identity and pride of the physician community.
A Unified Physician Community
The convention concluded by recognizing the efforts of GAPI’s executive leadership, Board of Trustees, Board of Directors, committee chairs, MSRF and youth members, who together made the event possible. Sincere gratitude was extended to sponsors.
As Dr. Medepalli shared, the convention was “a testament to GAPI’s enduring commitment to celebrate physicians, support their journeys, and give back to the community.” The weekend closed with music, unity, and a renewed purpose — an inspiring reminder of what it truly means to serve and lead in healthcare.
The GAPI 2024–2025 Executive Team welcomed the incoming Executive Team, which will be led by Dr. Vishal Sharma as President of GAPI, Dr. Pravinchandra Patel as BOT Chair, and Anita Medepalli, BS, as MSRF Chair for 2025–2026.
For more details, visit www.gapi.org.
