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In loving memory of Dr. K.C. Rajagopal, a name synonymous with compassion, knowledge, and selfless service, we reflect on the life of a man who was far more than a celebrated pediatrician. He was a beacon of light for generations of doctors and a source of unwavering comfort for countless families in Calicut (Kozhikode), Kerala, and beyond. Dr. Rajagopal, the revered "teacher of teachers," passed away, leaving a profound void in the medical community and the hearts of all who knew him.

Dr. Rajagopal’s journey was one of quiet dedication. Born and raised in Calicut, he dedicated his illustrious career to the health and well-being of children. His professional life was defined not by fame or fortune, but by his genuine love for his young patients and a deep-seated commitment to advancing both preventive and curative pediatric care in the region. His calm demeanor and an almost magical ability to put anxious children and worried parents at ease were legendary. His diagnostic skills, a blend of sharp intellect and decades of hands-on experience, made him the first point of contact for complex cases. For many, he was simply "our Dr. Rajagopal," a figure of trust and security.

His influence, however, extended far beyond the walls of his clinic. Widely referred to as a "teacher of teachers," Dr. Rajagopal was a mentor to hundreds of medical students and young doctors. He taught by example, instilling in his protégés not just medical facts, but also the core values of empathy, patience, and ethical practice. His teaching style was known for its clarity, and a unique blend of scientific rigor and clinical wisdom. He tirelessly worked to shape a new generation of physicians who would carry that torch, never hesitating to share his vast knowledge. He also contributed prolifically to academic forums, conferences, and workshops, enriching the pediatric community with his insights and research.

The legacy of Dr. K.C. Rajagopal is not written in grand monuments, but in the healthy smiles of the thousands of children he cared for and in the compassionate hands of the doctors he trained. His passing marks the end of an era, but his dual commitment—to the well-being of children and to the excellence of medical education—will live on in every life he touched. He will be remembered not just as a great doctor, but as a great soul.

Dr. Riyaz A, former HOD of pediatrics at calicut medical college  fondly remembers his beloved teacher.

Deeply saddened by the passing away of our beloved teacher Rajagopalan sir- the true “teacher of teachers”. Thus, a glorious era in the history of pediatrics in Kerala has just ended. His intense passion for teaching and unwavering support had a lasting impact on my life as well as the lives of thousands of UG students and hundreds of PG students. He was not just a teacher, but a guide, mentor, and source of inspiration to everyone around him. I first saw KCR sir in 1975 when I was a third-year MBBS student at Calicut Medical College. I became a huge fan of him almost immediately, as his classes were so hilarious and entertaining. I joined as his tutor in 1983 and later became his PG student in 1984. He guided my thesis on leukemia. Teaching was always a passionate pursuit for him. He used to say, ‘‘Once a teacher, always a teacher.” When I became the HoD of pediatrics in 2009, he used to come to our department almost daily. He would then teach me and the PGs in my unit the recent developments not only in general pediatrics but also in various subspecialties of pediatrics and even general medicine. He used to conduct regular clinical and theory classes for PGs and undergraduates. He attended conferences and CMEs regularly. Under his leadership, our department organized several camps for tribal children in Attappadi and Wayanad in 2011. He loved cracking instant jokes. If students stood up when he entered, he would ask them to sit down, saying, ‘‘Respect should come not from buttocks but from the heart.” If we invited him to join us for lunch, he would say, “Will you then change my name from KC Rajagopalan to OC Rajagopalan?” He continued to be so cheerful and humorous even after the tragic death of his wife, Suseela Madam, who was the head of Preventive Medicine. He always encouraged his students to strive for excellence. KCR sir will be dearly missed by his students, patients, and family. His legacy will live on through the countless students whose careers he has shaped. I am always grateful to the Almighty for blessing me with the privilege of being one of the many students of this incredible teacher. Rest in peace, dear sir. You will always hold a special place in my heart.