A doctor from a small village in Kasaragod, Kerala is redefining healthcare by merging medical innovation with community empowerment. Through his not-for-profit institution Institute of Applied Dermatology (IAD), Dr S R Narahari is not only offering integrated medicine to treat thousands of patients suffering from Lymphatic Filariasis and Lymphedema but also creating employment opportunities for local communities in Kerala, Bihar and Uttar Pradesh.
Lymphatic Filariasis, often referred to as elephantiasis, is a chronic disease caused by parasitic infections that lead to severe swelling and disfigurement. It not only affects the physical well-being of individuals but also isolates them socially. Dr Narahari has addressed this dual challenge by developing a unique treatment model that combines modern medicine with Ayurveda, yoga, and dietary practices, offering hope to those who have been carrying huge lymph volumes on their legs for years.
“For many of our employees, this is their first stable job,” says Dr Narahari. “It gives them financial independence and a sense of purpose. At the same time, their involvement enriches our mission of holistic healing and community support,” he adds. Apart from its main centre at Ulliyathaduka in Kasaragod, IAD has been running sub-centres in Varanasi, Lucknow, Beguasari and Patna.
Since 1999, IAD has successfully treated over 10,000 patients across India and the integrated treatment protocol developed by Dr Narahari along with his mentor Prof Dr Terence J Ryan of Oxford University after years of research has been adopted by National AYUSH Mission as a public health programme for lymphedema management. The treatment protocol was also published in the most reputed British Journal of Dermatology.
“Apart from restoring health to thousands of patients, we are also empowering local communities. By employing local residents in diverse roles such as patient care, administrative work, and community outreach, IAD has been fostering economic stability and skill development in regions often overlooked by mainstream employment opportunities. We have generated employment for over 300 people mostly women in the last one decade,” Dr Narahari added.
IAD also serves as a training ground for individuals, equipping them with healthcare and administrative skills. This not only boosts their professional growth but also enhances the institution’s ability to reach more patients in need. For many, IAD represents a second chance at life, free from the physical and emotional burdens of the disease.
Dr Narahari’s commitment to curing Lymphatic Filariasis and empowering communities has drawn praise from public health experts and policymakers, who view his initiative as a model for tackling neglected diseases while promoting inclusive growth. By intertwining health and humanity, Dr Narahari continues to transform lives, one patient and one community at a time.
