The 29th Annual Convention of AAPI–QLI (Association of Physicians of Indian Origin – Queens, Long Island) was marked by inspiration, reflection, and celebration, as Dr. Bobby Mukkamala, President of the American Medical Association (AMA), delivered a deeply personal and motivating keynote address that resonated strongly with hundreds of physicians in attendance.
The highlight of the convention was Dr. Mukkamala’s appearance as chief guest and keynote speaker. Currently serving as the head of the AMA—the most prestigious medical professional body in the United States—Dr. Mukkamala is the first Indian American to hold the position, a milestone widely hailed by the Indian American medical community.
“It is an honor to be with you today,” Dr. Mukkamala told the gathering. “I look very much forward to working together to improve health care in this country and to use our legacy and culture to strengthen American medicine.”
A Journey Shaped by Family, Faith, and Medicine
In a speech that blended humor with profound vulnerability, Dr. Mukkamala reflected on his journey into medicine and the formative influence of his parents. Raised in a Hindu household, educated in a Catholic school, and now a practicing vegan, he described his life as one shaped by diverse traditions and values.
He spoke candidly about his diagnosis with a brain tumor, an experience that transformed his perspective as both a physician and a patient. While acknowledging his access to high-quality care, he emphasized that many Americans face overwhelming barriers to similar treatment.
Dr. Mukkamala shared that he takes a pill every morning designed to stop the growth of his residual tumor—a medication developed after decades of scientific research. “That pill costs $900 a day, or more than $200,000 a year,” he said, underscoring the inequities in access to life-saving healthcare.
“I have access,” he noted, “but that may not be the story of most people in this country.”
Recounting an emotional moment with his parents following his diagnosis, Dr. Mukkamala said when they cried, he tried to comfort them with the philosophy they had instilled in him. “If you taught me to believe in reincarnation,” he told them, “and if I’m going to come back in some form, I’ll be the deer in our backyard. You won’t know it—but that could be me. Why are you crying?”
The anecdote drew both laughter and reflection from the audience, encapsulating the tone of a speech that balanced gravity with grace.
Bridging Indian and American Medical Communities
Dr. Mukkamala highlighted the growing influence of physicians of Indian origin in the United States, noting that nearly 30 percent of American physicians are of international descent, with Indians forming the largest group among them.
Last year, he said, he led a delegation of AMA trustees to India, and plans to do so again. “I want to see our two communities intersect even more,” he said, praising India’s healthcare ecosystem—from rural villages to world-class urban hospitals.
He also amused the audience by recalling his brief venture into Indian cinema, where he appeared in a small film role—an anecdote that added levity and drew warm applause.
“I am optimistic about the future,” he said, expressing confidence in the continued collaboration between the AMA and AAPI.
Leaders React: ‘A Humbling Moment’
Dr. Krishan Kumar, Vice President of the national AAPI organization, described Dr. Mukkamala’s presence as deeply meaningful. “It was a very humbling moment to be standing next to such a man,” he told Desi Talk.
“We are here on the shoulders of giants—people who established the name of India in America, people who sacrificed their lives to bring America closer to India,” Dr. Kumar added in remarks to ITV Gold.
Several distinguished physicians were honored during the convention, including Dr. Jerry Balentine, Dr. T.K.S. Rao, and Dr. Tarun Wasil, recognizing their contributions to medicine and community service.
Among other prominent attendees was Padma Shri awardee Dr. Sudhir Parikh, Chairman of Parikh Worldwide Media and ITV Gold, and incoming President of the Global Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (GAPIO), effective February 2026.
Welcoming Dr. Mukkamala, Dr. Parikh said, “We are very proud of him. To see the youngest doctor become President of the American Medical Association—that was our dream.” He also extended an invitation for an exclusive interview at the ITV Gold studio.
Culture, Celebration, and Community
The gala evening featured a lively musical performance by Bishakh Jyoti, national award-winning singer, Bollywood music director, and Sa Re Ga Ma Pa champion. His performance brought attendees to the dance floor, turning the formal gathering into a celebration of culture and camaraderie.
Leaders from both AAPI–QLI and the national AAPI addressed the audience, including Dr. Devendra Shrivastava (President, AAPI–QLI), Dr. Prabhu Mehta (Convention Chairman), Dr. Abhay Malhotra (Chairman, Board of Trustees), and Dr. Rakesh Dua (Chairman, Advisory Council).
About AAPI-QLI
AAPI–QLI represents nearly 1,000 physicians of Indian origin working across Queens, Brooklyn, and Long Island, making it the largest chapter of the national AAPI, headquartered in Chicago.
Many of its members serve as department chairs and medical directors across major hospitals in the Greater New York area. This year’s 29th Annual Convention featured not only the gala but also a Continuing Medical Education (CME) program, a Research Competition, and fundraising initiatives supporting charitable causes.
As the convention concluded, the message was clear: the legacy of Indian American physicians continues to grow—guided by leaders like Dr. Bobby Mukkamala, whose journey embodies resilience, service, and the promise of more equitable healthcare for all.
