In an exclusive chat with The Pioneer, Dr. Srirang Abkari, a consultant physician at Udai Omni Hospital, Hyderabad shares his association with the city.
Subodhini Purohit
Hyderabad, a place where tradition and modernity blend to create a vibrant culture, we have Dr. Srirang Abkari, a consultant physician at Udai Omni Hospital in Hyderabad, proudly carries the legacy of three generations deeply rooted in this historic hometown.
Hyderabad is an incredibly welcoming city with a rich, cosmopolitan culture. People from all backgrounds and communities live together harmoniously. “The city exudes warmth and kindness, and I’ve never encountered any form of discrimination here. It’s truly a place filled with wonderful, good-hearted people.”
Hyderabad, he says, is a wonderful place, full of cherished childhood memories. One festival that stands out for him is Sankranti when the sky is filled with kites flown from every terrace. It was a time when different communities came together to celebrate in unity and joy.
The diverse environment at St. Paul’s High School brought together people from all walks of life, shaping who they are today. The values and lessons learned there have profoundly influenced both his personal development and professional career.
Meanwhile, he feels that the city boasts an excellent health infrastructure, making medical care highly accessible compared to abroad. Both government and private hospitals, as well as numerous clinics, are readily available throughout the city. Thanks to continuous advancements and a plethora of educational conferences and activities, healthcare in Hyderabad remains affordable, he emphasises, “There’s no need to seek medical care elsewhere when such comprehensive and advanced options are available right here.”
Hyderabad is renowned for its unique offerings that his loved ones cherish. They always make it a point to take home trademark treats from Karachi Bakery, like their cashew biscuits and fruit biscuits, which are the perfect blend of sweet and savoury. He says, “Souvenirs from iconic landmarks like Charminar, and Golconda, and traditional handloom and Pochampally sarees are also a must-have for my closed ones, capturing the essence of Hyderabad’s rich culture and heritage.”
He loves the warm, cosmopolitan culture and hospitality of Hyderabad. However, he dislikes the traffic situation and the frequent instances of wrong-side driving, and he shares, “Improvements in these areas would make driving much more comfortable and enhance overall safety in the city.”
Hyderabad is a wonderful place that always feels like home. While one may travel abroad to see grand monuments, the comfort and peace found here are unmatched. The warm reception you receive in Hyderabad is unparalleled. “The unique local lingo, the distinctive Hyderabad Hindi, and the rich vocabulary add to its charm. Having lived here since childhood, I can confidently say that Hyderabad is a truly special place to live,” he signs off on a concluding note.