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Indian American physician Dr. Sampat Shivangi passes away
Born in Athani, Karnataka, Dr. Shivangi’s journey from humble beginnings to becoming a respected voice in American healthcare and politics exemplifies resilience and vision.
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Dr. Sampat Shivangi. / Mississippi Department of Mental Health.
Dr. Sampat Shivangi, a pioneering Indian-American physician, community leader, and advocate, passed away on Feb.10 in a hospital following a brain hemorrhage. He was in his early 80s. His life’s work, spanning medicine, public health, and Indo-American relations, leaves behind an enduring legacy of dedication and impact.
Born in Athani, Karnataka, Dr. Shivangi’s journey from humble beginnings to becoming a respected voice in American healthcare and politics exemplifies resilience and vision. After earning his MBBS from Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, and later his MD and DGO from Karnataka Medical College, Hubli, he immigrated to the United States in 1976, where he established himself as a prominent physician and leader within the Indian-American community.
His career was defined by a commitment to both medicine and public service. Dr. Shivangi served as an advisor to the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services from 2005 to 2008, advocating for healthcare policies that benefited marginalized communities. He was also a longstanding member of the Mississippi State Board of Mental Health and the Mississippi State Board of Health, playing a key role in shaping mental health policies in the state.
Dr. Shivangi’s influence extended beyond healthcare. As president of the Indian American Forum for Political Education, he worked tirelessly to increase the political engagement of Indian Americans, ensuring their voices were heard in Washington, D.C. He was also instrumental in advocating for the India-U.S. Civil Nuclear Treaty and the U.S.-India Defense Treaty, strengthening ties between the two nations. A regular delegate at national GOP conventions, he remained deeply engaged in policy discussions that impacted both India and the United States.
His contributions were widely recognized. Among his many accolades, he received the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award from then-President of India, Pranab Mukherjee, on Pravasi Bharatiya Divas 2016, as well as the Ellis Island Medal of Honor in 2008. In 2017, the Indian American Republican Committee named him Person of the Year in acknowledgment of his political and community leadership.
Dr Sampat Shivangi with President of India Murmu, in center, Minister Pralhad Joshi, and Udaya Shivanagi at Dr. Sampatkumar Shivanagi cancer Hospital in Belagavi. / Courtesy PhotoIn December 2024, his philanthropic vision took concrete form with the inauguration of the KLE Dr. Sampat Kumar S. Shivangi Cancer Hospital, a project spearheaded in collaboration with Dr. Prabhakar Kore, chairman of the KLE Society. The hospital, inaugurated by Indian President Droupadi Murmu, stands as a testament to Dr. Shivangi’s unwavering commitment to improving healthcare access, particularly in underserved regions.
Even in the final months of his life, he remained active in both India and the United States. On Jan.10, 2025, he participated in the Athani Vidyavardhak Sounsthe Naming Ceremony. He was dedicated to furthering educational and healthcare advancements in his birthplace.
Dr Sampat participated in the Athani Vidyavardhak Sounsthe Naming Ceremony. / Courtesy Photo
Dr. Shivangi’s impact was not only institutional but deeply personal. He was known for his generosity, advocacy, and relentless drive to support those in need.
Dr. Ajeet R. Singhvi, past president and chair of the board of trustees of the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI), paid tribute to his friend and colleague, stating:
"In Dr. Shivangi, the American Indian community has lost one of its most influential voices on Capitol Hill as well as in the power corridors of New Delhi. A maverick, always eager to help those in need, a philanthropist with a big heart—he will be missed dearly."
Dr. Sampat Shivangi’s life was a bridge between continents, communities, and causes. His advocacy, leadership, and humanitarian efforts will continue to inspire future generations.
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