A Tribute to a Century of Healing and Innovation
Book ‘To the Seventh Generation’ Celebrates Legacy of CMC Vellore: On March 20, 2025, the book “To the Seventh Generation: The Journey of Christian Medical College Vellore” was officially launched in Chennai, commemorating the legacy of one of India’s most respected medical institutions. The author, Dr. V.I. Mathan, a former director of CMC Vellore (1994–1997), presented the first copy to Dr. Vikram Mathew, the current director of CMC and a leading haematologist. This significant work documents the evolution of CMC Vellore over the decades and features rare insights from its visionary founder, Dr. Ida Scudder.
Remembering a Founder’s Vision
The book offers a rich narrative of CMC Vellore’s growth, from its humble beginnings to becoming a global leader in medical care and education. Dr. Mathan, who spent 50 years at CMC, brings a firsthand connection to Ida Scudder, whose commitment to rural healthcare and Christian values shaped the institution’s core ethos. Her story is woven throughout the book, reflecting a legacy of compassion and innovation.
Honouring Medical Journeys
Among those honoured at the event was Dr. V.V. Bashi, Director at SIMS, Vadapalani, who received the second copy. He shared his reflections from the time he joined CMC in 1980, a choice that shaped his career in cardiac surgery. Dr. Bashi recalled how CMC’s focus on hands-on training and academic rigour prepared him for complex medical practice, even without an MCh degree. His experiences mirror the institution’s broader impact on Indian healthcare leadership.
Blending Tradition with Technology
During his address, Dr. Bashi touched upon the ongoing transformation in medical education, where technologies like AI and machine learning are reshaping diagnostic tools. Yet, he emphasised that traditional clinical skills—listening to patients and careful examination—remain irreplaceable. This balance of old and new is a hallmark of CMC’s teaching model, as highlighted in the book.
A Literary Celebration of Medicine
The launch event included a moving reading session by activist Usha Jesudasan, who read selected passages from the book, capturing its humanistic tone. The narrative not only celebrates institutional milestones but also honours the personal stories of doctors, students, and patients who have walked through CMC’s doors.
STATIC GK SNAPSHOT
Book ‘To the Seventh Generation’ Celebrates Legacy of CMC Vellore:
| Aspect | Details |
| Book Title | To the Seventh Generation: The Journey of Christian Medical College Vellore |
| Author | Dr. V.I. Mathan, former Director, CMC Vellore |
| First Copy Received By | Dr. Vikram Mathew, Director, CMC Vellore |
| Second Copy Received By | Dr. V.V. Bashi, Director, Institute of Cardiac Diseases, SIMS, Chennai |
| Date of Launch | March 20, 2025 |
| Event Location | Chennai |
| Theme | Chronicles CMC’s evolution and legacy |
| Notable Historical Link | Features insights from Ida Scudder, founder of CMC Vellore |
| Message Highlight | Importance of traditional diagnostics in the age of AI |
