NAPERVILLE, Ill. (Diya TV) — Friends, family, and colleagues gathered in Naperville on July 13 to celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Sriram Sonty, a respected ophthalmologist and lifelong advocate of non-violence. The emotional tribute highlighted his medical achievements, his deep admiration for Mahatma Gandhi, and the values he instilled in those around him.
Attendees honored him with stories, music, and heartfelt reflections, creating a memorable farewell to a man remembered for both his intellect and compassion. Born in 1946 in Ramachandrapuram, Andhra Pradesh, India, Dr. Sonty made a lasting mark in the field of ophthalmology. He earned his medical degree from Andhra Medical College and completed his residency in ophthalmology at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences.
In 1975, Dr. Sonty moved to the United States to further his training. He studied at top institutions, including Tufts Medical Center, Boston Children’s Medical Center, and the University of Pittsburgh Eye and Ear Infirmary. Eventually, he settled in Chicago, where he served as a clinical associate professor at the University of Illinois, Chicago Eye Center. There, he specialized in glaucoma and published more than 125 medical papers.
Dr. Sonty also held leadership positions in the American Academy of Ophthalmology and received the Vamsee International Lifetime Achievement Award, underscoring his commitment to advancing eye care. Beyond medicine, Dr. Sonty passionately followed the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi. He believed non-violence could serve as a powerful tool for peace in the United States and around the world.
He built a large personal library of Gandhi’s writings and collected rare images of the leader’s life. He traveled frequently to West Africa, where he joined events honoring Gandhi’s global legacy. Dr. Sonty’s efforts included a long-running campaign to create a U.S. postal stamp of Gandhi. He hoped it would inspire young people to follow a path of peace.
“He banned the word ‘hate,’” said his elder daughter, Siri Sonty, who emceed the event. “He believed nothing in this universe could inspire that much negativity.” Her remarks drew applause and tears as she reflected on her father’s unwavering optimism. Siri Sonty shared photos and stories during the memorial, calling the experience “surreal.” She said the community’s support helped ease the pain of his loss. “I don’t think he’s left for me,” she said. “But it helps to know we can celebrate him together.”
Dr. Sonty’s younger daughter, Sita Sonty, recalled his protective nature. She spoke about a conversation they had in 2004 while she was in Baghdad. Her father had wanted to make sure she was safe. She remembered his sharp sense of humor and quoted Shakespeare: “Alas, poor Yorick… a fellow of infinite jest.” His laughter, she said, was “proof of life.”
Even in his final days, Dr. Sonty stayed active in his mission. He hosted a Zoom call to discuss Gandhian principles and encouraged his family to keep exploring life. His advice led Sita to attend Rafael Nadal’s final match in Spain — a symbol of her father’s adventurous spirit.
Dr. Afzal Ahmad, founder of the Midwest Eye Center, met Dr. Sonty in 1982 at a medical conference in Boston. “I offered him a job, and he’s been with me ever since,” Ahmad said, his voice full of emotion. “I call him my brother, and I have lost a brother.” Dr. Sonty’s dedication to his patients, love for learning, and belief in humanity’s goodness touched everyone he met. His work in medicine and peace advocacy leaves a lasting legacy.
The memorial in Naperville offered a powerful reminder of Dr. Sonty’s values: kindness, knowledge, and courage. From his roots in India to his influence in Illinois and beyond, Dr. Sonty lived a life of purpose. His family, friends, and peers continue to carry forward his message — that peace begins with each of us. His story is not just one of success in medicine, but of commitment to something greater: a world where healing goes hand-in-hand with hope.
