Dr. Sampat Shivangi, a distinguished Indian-American physician, philanthropist, and community leader, passed away on February 10, 2025, at a hospital in Jackson, Mississippi, due to health complications.

Just weeks before his passing, on January 3, 2025, Dr. Shivangi played a pivotal role in the launch of the Dr. Sampat Shivangi Cancer Hospital in Belagavi, Karnataka. The state-of-the-art facility, equipped with 300 beds and advanced cancer treatment technology, was made possible through donations from Dr. Shivangi and other U.S.-based donors. The hospital was inaugurated by President of India, Droupadi Murmu.

Tributes Pour in for Dr. Shivangi

South Asian Herald reached out to Indian American physicians and community leaders to get their reactions.

President of the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) Dr. Satheesh Kathula described Dr. Shivangi as a trailblazer of the Indian diaspora. 

Dr. Kathula expressed, “Over the decades, he dedicated his time and efforts to AAPI and numerous Indian-American organizations. His leadership, vision, and commitment to advocacy set him apart as a pillar of strength and guidance. Through his philanthropy, he touched countless lives, striving to make a positive impact in healthcare and beyond.”

Dr. Kathula emphasized that Dr. Shivangi’s legacy will continue to inspire and that his absence will be deeply felt.

“Dr. Shivangi’s untimely death is shocking news. He played a pivotal role in AAPI and helped advance many of its goals. His contributions to healthcare in India are unparalleled,” said Dr. Navin Shah, Founder and Past President of AAPI. 

Dr. Shah added that his passing has left a deep void in the Indian-American medical and community leadership circles.

Dr. Anu Bhat (President-Elect, NAVIKA) and Dr. Subra Bhat (GA State Medical Board Member) echoed similar sentiments. 

They emphasized, “Yesterday, we lost one of our mentors, Dr. Sampat Shivangi. He was a philanthropist, a close physician friend, and politically well-connected. Kind, compassionate, and caring – he played a significant role in organizing the AAPI Global Healthcare Summit in 2024 at our medical alma mater, Manipal. We will cherish his memories forever.”

Commissioner at the Georgia Student Finance Commission and Board Member of HomeTrust Bank, Dr. Narasimhulu Neelagaru, reflected on his decades-long association with Dr. Shivangi. 

“I have known him for over twenty years as a kind, humble individual well-respected in the medical community. He was a strong supporter of AAPI and a generous philanthropist who championed many causes, including the cancer hospital in Belagavi. His passing is a profound loss to both humanity and the medical community,” added Dr. Neelagaru. 

Chairman of the American Hindu Coalition (AHC), Shekhar Tiwari, highlighted Dr. Shivangi’s diplomatic contributions. 

“Dr. Sampat Shivangi was a true patriot, dedicating a major part of his life to strengthening U.S.-India relations. His unwavering efforts and commitment will be remembered every time India seeks political support. His legacy of diplomacy and devotion will continue to inspire us,” pointed out Tiwari.

Faith-based community leader, Alok Srivastava recalled his long association with Dr. Shivangi, noting their collaboration in organizing events at the U.S. Capitol and the Indian Embassy. 

“Dr. Shivangi was a true admirer of India, a devoted supporter of Hindu values, and someone who transcended political divides. He had invited me to attend the inauguration of his Cancer Hospital in Karnataka. Dr. Shivangi’s passing is a great loss to the community, but his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of the Indian diaspora,” added Srivastava. 

A Legacy of Leadership and Advocacy

Born in Athani, Karnataka, Dr. Shivangi earned his MBBS from Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, and later completed his MD and DGO from Karnataka Medical College, Hubli. He moved to the United States in 1976, where he became a leading voice for the Indian-American medical community.

From 2005 to 2008, Dr. Shivangi served as an advisor to the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services, advocating for healthcare policies benefiting marginalized communities. He was also a member of the Mississippi State Board of Mental Health and the Mississippi State Board of Health, where he played an important role in shaping mental health policies.

For his exceptional contributions, he was honored with the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award by then-President of India, Pranab Mukherjee. 

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