KOLLAM: Local hero, Dr Syed Shiras, pedals to patients' rescue without notice treating them day or night. The 32-year-old Ayurveda practitioner, based at Mainagapally Pallimukku, Chamathundil House, is a trusted figure in the community.

During the COVID era, he tackled patients' woes, reaching them on his bicycle and even providing free medicine for those in need. His services extend within a 25 km radius of his home, benefiting over two thousand patients.

Graduating with a B.A.M.S. from Sri Narayana Ayurveda College, Pangode in 2017, Dr Shiras opened a clinic near his residence and worked at Pathanamthitta District Hospital. Currently, he serves as a medical officer at the District Ayurveda Hospital, contributing to the palliative project by Kollam District Panchayat and the Department of Indian Medicine.

Supported by his family, including his wife Shibana, an Agriculture Department official, and their son Mehfin, Dr Shiras has earned accolades including recognition from Mainagapally Panchayat.

His humanitarian efforts extend to aiding a paralyzed peer, Munir of Chempanaruvi SFCK Colony enabling him to walk again. In April 2023, Dr Shiras, part of the palliative project team, helped Munir regain mobility over five months.