Dr Gurushankar: Doctor by profession, actor by passion

Noted surgeon Dr. Gurushankar of Madurai Meenakshi Mission, who’s involved in several philanthropic activities, has now turned actor. He essayed the husband of Jyothika in Bala’s Naachiyaar. In this exclusive to DC, Dr. Gurushankar talks about his decision to become an actor, on working with director Bala, his medical activities and more.

Known for his scientific and entrepreneurial spirit, Guru shankar played a key part in revitalising and expanding the family business of the Meenakshi Mission hospitals in Madurai. Dr Guru initiated a state-wide campaign, ‘Aram Seidhu Pazhagu’ which showcased real life stories of patients who have been treated over the years through charity programmes of the Meenakshi Mission Hospital — including hospice care, free cancer treatment for children, telemedicine and free cleft lip and palate surgery. These shorts were directed by Sudha Kongara of Irudhi Suttru fame.

It all started when Sudha suggested that instead of roping in an actor to essay a doctor, why not the doctor himself act and appear on screen. That paved the way for him to get in front of the camera for the five short films. As noted, interacting with kids who have recovered from illnesses is one of his more pleasurable activities. It helps him understand what they had gone through. He sees his newfound profession of acting in similar vein: “I’m always open to try new things in life. Helping people in the hospital industry is my core passion, and I will continue to focus on it. Acting, however, is a career that puts yourself in other people’s shoes. You get to know of their feelings and emotions. Hence my reasons to give it a go, after all, I’m still a student here!”

Beginning your career for a director such as Bala might seem like a daunting feat from the outside, but Gurushankar dispels all the drama people might have about the filmmaker. “Bala, unlike what people say, is a very friendly person,” he said. “When he gets what he wants, he’s cool. When he doesn’t, it’s different. I assume I didn’t upset him!” chirped the doctor, adding that Bala deserves all the credits.

At the end of the day, Gurushankar is an entrepreneur with a gift for marketing and social presence. Numerous campaigns and philanthropic efforts of his have been broadcasted on TV, print and theatrical ads before. What he did with the Meenakshi Mission in focusing on growth and staying ahead in the hyper-competitive hospital and healthcare field is a testament to his long-term thinking and vision.

His performance in Naachiyaar is defined by these characteristics. Thus, Gurushankar’s social activities don’t stop with his motion picture venture. “We are opening clinics in Kenya and helping them with our social work,” he said. “We’ve tied up with local doctors in Kenya and we’re opening multiple clinics in Nairobi. Their country is well behind India in terms of development.” A curious mix of ambition, passion, and entrepreneurship fuels his busy lifestyle.