Remembering the ‘Doctor of the Poor’: Tribute to Dr. Gouranga Goswami

He was known across Bengal as the “Doctor of the Poor”—a physician who charged only five rupees for treatment throughout his life. After completing his MBBS in the 1970s, Dr. Gouranga Goswami chose not to pursue a government posting in North Bengal. Instead, he returned to Kalna to serve the underprivileged.

Every morning at 10, his chamber would open. Except for a brief rest in the afternoon, he continued seeing patients late into the night—sometimes without pause. Even during the COVID-19 pandemic, when many doctors shut their doors, his clinic remained open for all.

On this day, a few years ago, his noble journey came to an end. For countless poor patients, he was nothing less than a savior, a godlike figure in a doctor’s coat.

On his death anniversary, we bow in heartfelt tribute to Dr. Gouranga Goswami.