BY MAHADEV DESAI
Atlanta, GA, May 19, 2026 — Nearly 300 community members took part in the 49th Sai Health Fair hosted by the Hindu Temple of Atlanta (HTA), turning the annual event into a large-scale effort focused on preventive healthcare, wellness, and community service. Organizers described the fair as a celebration of service and holistic well-being, bringing together physicians, nurses, volunteers, wellness experts, and community organizations.
The health fair, facilitated and hosted by HTA at its Riverdale location, was organized around the principles of community service, social justice, and nonviolence inspired by the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Organizers said the event continued a long-standing tradition of providing accessible healthcare resources to the community.
The two-day initiative featured a range of medical services and screenings. More than 300 individuals had registered online for comprehensive blood testing offered at a nominal fee of $15. The testing was coordinated through Health Soft USA’s Kintu Shah and conducted by a team of eight phlebotomists.
Free consultations were offered by 22 physicians representing 13 medical specialties, assisted by nurses from the Georgia Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (GAPI) and more than 20 volunteers. Specialties included cardiology, endocrinology, pediatrics, dentistry, dermatology, gastroenterology, obstetrics and gynecology, orthopedics, physical therapy, ophthalmology, audiology, and bone-density screening.
In addition to physician consultations, attendees had access to a wide range of preventive health and wellness programs. Dr. Pradip Kamat conducted CPR demonstrations and provided information on stroke prevention. Certified nutritionist and Health & Wellness Coach Rajitha Bommakanti, RN, offered advice on maintaining healthy lifestyles, while homeopathy consultations and a bone marrow donor drive were also part of the event. Ayurvedic wellness consultations were led by Dr. Rupali Bistdar, and holistic wellness and yoga sessions were conducted by Swati Kumari. Beena Patel also provided guidance and information related to Medicare services.
Among the notable features of this year’s health fair was the inclusion of Lipoprotein(a), or Lp(a), testing as part of cardiovascular risk assessment efforts.
Dr. Lalitha Medepalli, an Atlanta cardiologist and immediate past president of GAPI, said the event highlighted both medical advancement and mentorship.
“As Immediate Past President of the Georgia Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (GAPI), I am grateful to have been part of the SAI Health Fair—a truly impactful community initiative led by Dr. Sujatha Reddy,” Medepalli said. “It was inspiring to witness young scholars and medical students actively contributing while learning alongside dedicated physicians, reflecting the strong spirit of mentorship and service within our community.”
She added that the addition of Lp(a) testing aligned with updated dyslipidemia guidelines and strengthened preventive cardiovascular care efforts.
Attendee Mini Nair praised the event and the leadership behind it.
“Hats off to Dr. Sujatha Reddy ji for her unwavering dedication to the community,” Nair said. “Under her inspiring leadership, more than 20 doctors came together for the 49th SAI Health Fair at the Hindu Temple of Atlanta, a meaningful tribute to Mahatma Gandhi’s legacy.”
Nair also noted that the event expanded beyond traditional healthcare services by incorporating wellness activities, including yoga sessions conducted by Swati Kumari as part of the Consulate General of India in Atlanta segment. She said the health fair promoted not only treatment but also “overall mindful living.”
Organizers also acknowledged community members who contributed to the event. Shri Shanmugam provided refreshments including donuts and orange juice for volunteers and attendees, while HTA Kitchen Chair Kishore Puttagunta coordinated breakfast and lunch service for participants.
HTA President Ravi Kari thanked the physicians, nurses, nutritionists, wellness specialists, and volunteers who made the event possible.
“A sincere thanks to every participating doctor, nurses, nutritionist, yoga instructor, alternative medicine specialist, and bone marrow awareness advocate whose efforts made the event impactful, memorable and life-enhancing,” Kari said.
He also gave special recognition to Dr. Sujatha Reddy, crediting her with establishing and sustaining the Sai Health Fair tradition.
“She has not only initiated the first Sai Health Fair but has also become the driving force behind all 49 Sai Health Fairs,” Kari said, noting that planning is already underway for the next event in October 2026.
The Hindu Temple of Atlanta said it remains committed to promoting health, service, and spiritual well-being through continuing health fairs and outreach initiatives aimed at strengthening community wellness.
