Kannur | In a deeply saddening loss for the medical fraternity and the people of Kerala, Dr. A.K. Rairu Gopal, affectionately known as the “Two-Rupee Doctor” for his decades of selfless service to the poor, passed away on Sunday at the age of 80 due to age-related ailments.
For nearly half a century, Dr. Gopal dedicated his life to treating thousands of patients for a nominal consultation fee of just ₹2—a fee he only modestly increased to ₹10 in recent years. Operating from his residence clinic ‘Lakshmi’, he was known to treat patients tirelessly from 4 AM to 4 PM daily, a routine he later scaled down slightly due to declining health. His patients came not only from Kannur but also from surrounding districts, many of whom considered him a lifeline for accessible healthcare.
Fondly referred to as the “people’s doctor”, Dr. Gopal completed his MBBS from Kozhikode Medical College and began his career briefly in a hospital in Kannur before opening his clinic in Talap. He served there for 35 years before relocating his practice to Thana. Beyond consultations, he also provided free medicines to patients who couldn’t afford them.
His clinic was finally closed in May 2024 due to health complications, a move that left many of his long-time patients heartbroken.
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan mourned the passing of Dr. Gopal, saying, “For half a century, he had been charging only two rupees for his consultation. His willingness to serve people was a great relief to poor patients.”
Dr. Gopal is survived by his wife, son, and daughter. His cremation will take place at Payyambalam in the afternoon.
His passing marks the end of an era—one defined by compassion, humility, and unwavering service to humanity.
