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AAPI mourns longtime member Dr. Sampat Shivangi
The American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) issued a statement after the respected community leader passed away due to brain hemorrhage.
Dr. Sampat Shivangi / Courtesy Photo
The American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) has mourned the loss of Dr. Sampat Shivangi, a respected physician, community leader, and longtime AAPI member.
"We are deeply saddened and shocked by the sudden passing away of Dr. Sampat Shivangi, a physician, an influential Indian American community leader, and a veteran leader of the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI)," said Dr. Satheesh Kathula, president of AAPI.
Dr. Shivangi passed away on Feb. 10 following a brain hemorrhage. He dedicated his life to medicine, public health, and strengthening Indo-American relations, leaving a lasting impact.
His foundation, the Dr. Sampat Shivangi Foundation, focuses on education, healthcare, mental health awareness, tribal support, women's empowerment, and using sports as a tool for positive change.
Dr. Sampat Shivangi with diplomats / Courtesy PhotoIn India, he established schools, community halls, and medical centers for underserved communities. In the U.S., he played a key role in building a Hindu temple in Jackson, Mississippi. In recognition of his contributions, a street in Mississippi has been named after him.
Dr. Kathula described him as "a trailblazer of the Indian diaspora”.
Having worked closely with Dr. Shivangi for years, he added, "Dr. Shivangi has left an indelible mark on the Indian American community. Over the decades, he dedicated his time and efforts to serving AAPI and numerous other Indian American organizations. His leadership, vision, and tireless commitment to advocating for the community set him apart as a pillar of strength and guidance."
Dr. Sunil Kaza, chair of AAPI’s Board of Trustees, praised Dr. Shivangi’s contributions, stating, "AAPI is proud of Dr. Shivangi’s numerous accomplishments, leadership, and contributions to the greater cause of the Indian Diaspora, Indo-US relationship, and particularly for his dedication to enhancing the mission of AAPI."
One of Dr. Shivangi’s most significant contributions to AAPI was leading the organization’s annual Legislative Day, where he invited prominent U.S. lawmakers, including senators and congressmen.
Dr. Sampat Shivangi and Dr. Satheesh Kathula, president of AAPI / Courtesy Photo
Dr. Amit Chakrabarty, AAPI’s president-elect, emphasized the loss to the community, saying, "The Indian American community has lost a great leader, philanthropist, and friend whose contributions will continue to resonate for generations. Through his philanthropic efforts, Dr. Shivangi touched countless lives, always striving to make a positive impact both in the healthcare sector and within the broader community."
Dr. Shivangi actively supported several charitable organizations, including the Blind Foundation of Mississippi and the American Diabetes, Cancer, and Heart Associations. He also worked on philanthropic projects in India, such as building primary and middle schools, cultural centers, and IMA Centers. He even helped AAPI secure the first-ever U.S. Congressional grant to study diabetes among Indian Americans.
Just a month before his passing, President Droupadi Murmu of India inaugurated the Dr. Sampat Kumar S. Shivangi Cancer Hospital in Belagavi, Karnataka. Spanning 175,000 square feet and housing 300 beds, the hospital was funded by Dr. Shivangi’s donations and fundraising efforts.
A strong advocate for Indo-U.S. relations, he played a key role in the Indo-U.S. Civil Nuclear Agreement and worked with the White House to lift sanctions against India during President Bill Clinton’s administration.
Dr. Sampat Shivangi at various events / Courtesy PhotoDr. Shivangi’s dedication earned him numerous awards, including the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award, the U.S. Congressional Recognition Award, the Ellis Medal of Honor Award, and the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Indo-American Press Club.
Dr. Shivangi is survived by his wife, Dr. Udaya S. Shivangi, MD, and their two daughters, Priya S. Shivangi, MS (NYU), and Pooja S. Shivangi, an attorney.
"His legacy will remain an inspiration for all who knew him, and his absence will be deeply felt. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones during this profoundly difficult time," said Dr. Kathula.
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