In a deeply inspiring story of survival and service, Dr. Prema Dhanraj, a leading plastic and reconstructive surgeon from Karnataka, has been awarded the Padma Shri in the field of Medicine. A burn survivor herself, Dr. Dhanraj has dedicated her life to providing free care, dignity, and hope to thousands of burn victims across India.
At the age of eight, Dr. Dhanraj suffered life-threatening burns in a stove explosion. After undergoing 14 surgeries and years of physical and emotional healing, she pursued a career in medicine—first completing her MBBS, followed by MS in General Surgery, MCh in Plastic Surgery, and further training in the U.S.
She later returned to Christian Medical College (CMC), Vellore, where she had once been treated as a patient, and rose to become the Head of the Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.
In 1999, she founded Agni Raksha, a non-profit organization that provides free surgeries, physiotherapy, psychological counseling, legal aid, and vocational training for burn survivors—particularly women and children from underprivileged backgrounds. Under her leadership, the organization has impacted more than 25,000 burn victims with medical care and helped thousands reintegrate into society.
Dr. Dhanraj’s approach is holistic—addressing not only physical scars but also emotional trauma, societal stigma, and economic dependency. Many of her patients have gone on to become self-sufficient entrepreneurs and caregivers themselves.
On receiving the Padma Shri, Dr. Dhanraj said:
“I dedicate this award to every burn survivor who chose to fight, heal, and live with courage. Their strength fuels my mission every day.”
Her life and work stand as a powerful testament to resilience, compassion, and the healing power of service. The Padma Shri recognizes not just her professional excellence but her unwavering dedication to humanity.
