Udupi's 5-rupee doctor, Dr K P Shetty, passes away at 77

Rumela De Sarkar

Udupi's 5-rupee doctor, Dr K P Shetty, passes away at 77

Written By : Rumela De Sarkar Published On 2025-11-06T13:55:14+05:30 | Updated On 6 Nov 2025 1:55 PM IST

Udupi: Dr. KP Shetty, fondly known as the “five-rupee doctor,” passed away on November 4, 2025, at the age of 77. A renowned physician from Hangarakatte, Mabukala, was revered for his humble nature and dedication to serving the community.

Dr Shetty dedicated 55 years of his life to the medical profession, treating it not merely as his profession but as a form of social service. He began his career at Manipal Hospital before joining the government health service. However, driven by his passion to serve his community directly, he later resigned from his government post to start a private clinic in his hometown.

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Beyond his medical service, Dr. Shetty was deeply actively in community activities. He served as the President of the Shri Ganesha Utsav Committee and played an active role in the Baludru School centenary celebration committee. His contributions to social and cultural causes earned him recognition and honours from several organisations.

He is survived by three sons and a daughter. Dr Shetty was popular among the people of Sasthana and Hangarakatte for his humble and service-minded approach, reports the Udayavani.

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According to the Daiji World, “He considered medicine a form of social service, not a profession,” recalled a local resident, remembering how Dr Shetty charged just Rs 5 in his early days, and later Rs 30, including all medicines, ensuring that no one was ever denied treatment for lack of money.

doctordoctor deathDr K P Shetty

Rumela De Sarkar

With a keen interest in storytelling and a dedication to uncovering facts, Rumela De Sarkar joined Medical Dialogues as a Correspondent in 2024. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in English Literature from the University of North Bengal. Rumela covers a wide range of healthcare topics, including medical news, policy updates, and developments related to doctors, hospitals, and medical education