AAPI Clinic Mandi Celebrates Trailblazing Physician Dr. Chander Mukhi Kapoor’s Birthday: Honoring a Legacy of Leadership and Inspiration.
Shimla:
In a heartfelt celebration at Hotel Raj Mahal, Mandi on Monday, the AAPI Clinic Charitable Foundation Trust honored the birthday of Dr. Chander Mukhi Kapoor (popularly known as Dr. Kapasi), a pioneering figure in Indian-American medical circles and an inspirational icon in global healthcare leadership. The event was presided over by Professor Lalit Kumar Awasthi, Vice Chancellor of Sardar Patel University Mandi.
Dr. Kapoor holds the distinguished honor of being the first Chairperson of the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI), which was officially registered in 1982. In a time when AAPI was heavily male-dominated, Dr. Kapoor broke barriers by becoming the first woman Chair of the AAPI Board of Trustees in 1993, symbolizing a milestone in the history of the organization and gender equality in leadership roles.
Her contributions to AAPI were multifaceted. She chaired several key committees, including those focused on Women’s Health, Integrated Health, and Political Action, bringing attention to issues often underrepresented in the healthcare community. Her involvement not only shaped the policies and outreach of AAPI but also laid a foundation for future female leadership.
A native of Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, Dr. Kapoor was born to Sharda Kapoor and Shadi Lal Kapoor, residents of Chauhata Bazaar, Mandi. She completed her early education at Girls Government School Mandi and Vallabh College Mandi, before pursuing her medical degree (MBBS and MD) from Lady Hardinge Medical College (LHMC), New Delhi. Furthering her education, she completed a Postgraduate degree in Preventive and Social Medicine from Harvard University, USA.
Her achievements are globally recognized. Most recently, she was honored with the Distinguished Services Award by Harvard University and the Lifetime Achievement Award by the LHMC Alumni Association. Her contributions have brought immense pride and recognition to Mandi and the state of Himachal Pradesh on an international stage.
Dr. Kapoor also holds the distinction of being the first Indian-American woman appointed to a gubernatorial transition team in Massachusetts in 1990, selected by then-Governor William Weld. She was later appointed as Chairperson of the Women’s Health and Fitness Committee, further showcasing her commitment to community health and gender equity.
At the birthday celebration in Mandi, staff of the AAPI Charitable Clinic, local dignitaries, and family members gathered for a modest yet emotional function. The event was attended by several notable personalities, including Naresh Vaidya President Khatri Sabha, Ravi Kapoor, president Sanatan Sabha, OP Kapoor, president Citizens Council Mandi and O.C. Malhotra. The presence of these well-wishers underscored the deep respect and admiration Dr. Kapoor commands both at home and abroad.
The event was coordinated by Y.P. Kapoor, Chief Functionary of the AAPI Charitable Clinic Mandi, who emphasized the significance of Dr. Kapoor’s lifelong contributions to medicine, women’s empowerment, and public service.
Dr. Chander Mukhi Kapoor’s journey from the lanes of Mandi to the leadership halls of global healthcare organizations is a shining testament to perseverance, intellect, and dedication.
