‘Kailash was instrumental in my progression in BMA’
Dr Chaand Nagpaul, British Medical Association (BMA) council chair I have known Kailash for over 20 years, since he was first elected to the BMA’s GP committee in 1999. We became instant allies; we shared so much. I loved his sense of conviction, passion, and commitment to the NHS and all it stood for. He was fearless to speak out about what he thought was right, regardless of political hue.
He became a true, loyal friend over the decades – an older brother as he would call himself. We got to know each other’s families and I realised how much of a wise and generous person he was, giving so much of himself to others, wider society and political arenas.
Kailash was instrumental in my progression in the BMA, always encouraging me to succeed. It was a particularly proud moment in my life to fulfil his wish to see me as the first ethnic minority chair of the BMA UK Council.
Kailash suffered disadvantage and hurdles when he came to the UK in 1978, and his experience alongside that of other ethnic minority overseas doctors has been an important spur in my own campaigning for race equality in our health service. Yet Kailash achieved so much in his career. As a single-handed GP, he transformed a small practice to a large successful medical centre, became the first ethnic minority deputy chair of BMA UK council – later becoming vice president of the BMA – was awarded Fellowship of the Royal College of GPs, and awarded an OBE for his services to the NHS and healthcare.
Kailash led a life of service – to other doctors, to patients and to the health service. He was a rare, special human being whose death leaves a huge void, but whose legacy will live on in all those who knew him. able to lighten up any gathering (mehfil) with impromptu reciting amazing shayri and ghazals (poems). People will remember him on a BAPIO dance video during the Covid-19 pandemic when he typically danced on Na Mangu Sona Chandi (from the film, Bobby)’ stating he desires love rather than any worldly pleasures. His complete dedication to his wife Anisha, when she was ill, is legendary and throws light on his kind nature.
Kailash, my friend, you will be sorely missed. May your soul rest in peace.