Rajnath Singh Visits Ganga Hospital in Coimbatore: Wife Undergoes Successful Surgery – Offers Prayers at Marudhamalai Temple
In a significant development that caught national attention, Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh visited Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, to check on his wife, Savithri Singh, who had been admitted to the city’s renowned Ganga Hospital for treatment. His visit, followed by a temple darshan at the Marudhamalai Subramanya Swamy Temple, raised questions about why the Union Minister chose Coimbatore over premier medical institutions in North India like AIIMS Delhi. Now, sources have revealed the reason behind this choice.
Background: Ailing Health and Surgical Intervention
Savithri Singh, 72, has reportedly been suffering from spinal issues for several months. According to hospital sources, she had previously undergone surgery at a leading hospital in North India, but unfortunately, the condition persisted. When complications resurfaced, the family began exploring specialized options for spinal treatment.
After careful consideration and consultations with medical professionals, the decision was made to admit her to Ganga Hospital in Coimbatore, which is well known across India for its expertise in orthopaedic and spine care. The hospital boasts state-of-the-art equipment, highly skilled surgeons, and a reputation for handling complex spinal surgeries with a high success rate.
Rajnath Singh’s Arrival in Coimbatore
To personally check on his wife’s condition and treatment progress, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh flew into Coimbatore on a private flight. Upon arrival, he was transported via road to Ganga Hospital, located on Mettupalayam Road. There, he spent nearly 1 hour and 45 minutes by his wife’s side, speaking to doctors and staff, and enquiring about her recovery and post-operative care.
Savithri Singh was being attended to by her two sons and daughter, who were already present in the hospital. Her surgery had been conducted a few days prior, and doctors reportedly confirmed it to be successful, with the patient showing signs of good recovery.
Why Not AIIMS or Delhi Hospitals?
Given Rajnath Singh’s stature and access to India’s top healthcare facilities, many were curious as to why a southern hospital was chosen over AIIMS Delhi or other top-tier North Indian hospitals.
Medical sources revealed that Ganga Hospital in Coimbatore is one of the most advanced centers for spine-related surgeries in India. The facility is internationally recognized for its excellence in minimally invasive spine surgery, joint replacement, and trauma care. Specialists here are known to have handled rare and high-risk cases with notable success.
It is understood that past surgery attempts elsewhere did not fully resolve Savithri Singh’s condition, and further issues arose post-procedure. After seeking multiple opinions, the family opted for Ganga Hospital due to its specialized capabilities, equipment, and the lower recurrence rate in spinal cases handled here.
Visit to Marudhamalai Temple
Following the hospital visit, Rajnath Singh proceeded to the Marudhamalai Subramanya Swamy Temple to offer prayers. The temple, a revered hill shrine located on the outskirts of Coimbatore, was brought under tight security arrangements by local police in anticipation of his visit.
At approximately 6:30 PM, the Minister arrived at the temple. Witnesses say that he appeared deeply emotional and engaged in intense prayer, likely seeking blessings for his wife’s recovery. The temple premises were temporarily restricted for public entry during his visit, and his darshan was completed peacefully under police supervision.
After the temple visit, Rajnath Singh returned to Ganga Hospital to spend more time with his wife before preparing to leave Coimbatore.
Political and Medical Implications
This visit had multiple layers of significance. Politically, Rajnath Singh’s appearance in Coimbatore — far from the national capital — naturally generated local and national media attention. However, his visit was purely personal and non-political in nature, as confirmed by those close to the Minister.
On the medical front, the incident draws attention to the growing reputation of southern Indian healthcare institutions, particularly in specialized fields. Ganga Hospital is no stranger to high-profile patients. Over the years, it has served business leaders, celebrities, and VIPs who seek excellence in orthopaedic and spinal care.
According to healthcare observers, this event could set a new precedent where more individuals from outside Tamil Nadu, including high-profile personalities, might look southwards for advanced medical treatment — especially for spinal ailments and orthopaedic complications.
Hospital Management’s Response
Hospital officials remained discreet about the specifics of Savithri Singh’s surgery due to privacy concerns but confirmed that she had undergone spinal surgery and was responding well to the post-operative care. The medical team attending to her included some of the hospital’s top specialists in spinal care.
The management also expressed gratitude for the trust shown by the Union Minister in their facility and pledged to continue providing world-class care.
Conclusion
The visit of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh to Coimbatore for his wife’s treatment marks a strong endorsement of Tamil Nadu’s healthcare infrastructure, especially in the field of specialized surgeries. While Delhi and other metro cities are usually seen as medical hubs, this move highlights the decentralization of quality healthcare across India.
It also emphasizes how reputation, specialization, and patient outcomes are becoming the primary criteria for healthcare decisions — even among India’s top leaders. With Savithri Singh reportedly on the path to recovery, the decision to choose Ganga Hospital may well prove to be a defining one for the family and a proud moment for the city of Coimbatore.
