BY MAHADEV DESAI
Atlanta, GA, May 9, 2025: The Hindu Temple of Atlanta hosted the 47th Sai Health Fair on two consecutive Saturdays—April 19 and April 26, 2025—at its Riverdale, Georgia location. The health fair, inspired by the principles of nonviolence, community service, and social justice upheld by Mahatma Gandhi and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., was a true celebration of service, wellness, and unity.
The event was a resounding success, with over 350 participants receiving free health screenings focused on awareness and preventive care. Seventeen respected physicians representing 12 medical specialties provided free consultations, assisted by nurses and more than 40 dedicated volunteers.
Over 200 individuals registered online for comprehensive blood tests conducted at a nominal fee of $15 on April 19. The testing, facilitated by Health Soft USA and a team of eight skilled phlebotomists from GINA, was coordinated with support from Vidya Kanagaraj, RN. The bloodwork played a critical role in early diagnosis and preventive health.
Specialists offering consultations included:
- Cardiology: Dr. Ravi Bathina, Dr. Lalitha Medepalli, Dr. Narasimhulu Neelagaru
- Endocrinology: Dr. S.K. Naidu
- Internal Medicine: Dr. Shyla Prabhakar, Dr. Keerthi Reddy, Dr. Jyoti Manekar, Dr. Reneeta Basu
- Obstetrics & Gynecology: Dr. Satya Suddala
- Gynecology: Dr. Kavitha Gopal
- Gastroenterology: Dr. Kavitha Gopal
- Physical Therapy: Dr. Deepak Bhagwandas
- Dentistry: Dr. Jalpa Dave
- Ophthalmology: Dr. Indira Menon, Dr. Ravali Reddy Gummi
- ENT: Dr. Rao Nadig
More than 55 EKGs were conducted by Dr. Koganti’s office, and over 50 bone-density tests were performed by Balamurali, Vika Balamurali, and Vasudha Edura—with 26 abnormal results identified.
Madhavi Kasam provided consultations in homeopathy and alternative medicine, introducing holistic healing options. Certified nutritionist Rajitha RN offered health coaching to promote better lifestyles. A Bone Marrow Awareness Booth educated attendees and encouraged donor registrations.
Participants were served tea, coffee, juice, and a continental breakfast, while doctors, nurses, technicians, and volunteers were treated to lunch, generously provided by the Hindu Temple of Atlanta and the Shanmugam family.
The HTA Executive Team remarked, “Beyond numbers—it was a spirit of healing. The environment radiated positivity, care, and a deep dedication to community wellness.”
Special recognition was given to:
- Dr. Sujatha Reddy for her outstanding leadership and coordination
- HTA President Ravi Kari
- Past Presidents Sheela Lingam, Prashanthi Asireddy (and her niece Shriya)
- Volunteers Rama, Uma Shanmugam, and Sneha Talika
Gratitude was also extended to all doctors, volunteers, nutritionists, alternative medicine specialists, bone marrow advocates, and media partners. Appreciation was especially noted for Mahadev Desai for event coverage and Srikanth Kari for photography.
The Hindu Temple of Atlanta continues its commitment to health, service, and spiritual upliftment through ongoing community outreach programs and health fairs. With blessings from Sri Balaji and Sri Ramalingeswara Swami, the temple community looks forward to building a healthier and spiritually enriched society.
