An exclusive interview with Dr. Malini Dasari, Rheumatologist, Obesity Medicine Physician, and Founder of ‘Walk Beyond the White Coat’
Tell us about your childhood and family background.
Malini: I grew up in Visakhapatnam in a traditional South Indian family. Education was given great importance in our family. My grandfather would always tell me, “Never stop dreaming and never stop believing in yourself.” Those words have been a great source of strength throughout my life.
Why did you choose medicine as your career?
Malini: I lost my grandmother to a heart attack when I was very young. The pain of not being able to save her created an interest in medicine within me. From then on, my dream of becoming a doctor became even stronger.
Why did you choose rheumatology as your specialty?
Malini: Rheumatology feels like solving a puzzle to me. Bringing together a patient’s symptoms, changes in the skin and other clinical signs to identify the underlying problem is something I find extremely fascinating.
How did the idea of ‘Walk Beyond the White Coat’ come about?
Malini: I believe a doctor’s responsibility should not be limited to the walls of a hospital or clinic. I wanted to use my knowledge to make a difference in the lives of more people. That led me to become involved in community service, women’s health initiatives and mentoring young people.
Tell us about the initiatives you are involved in for young people, especially girls.
Malini: I love helping young women build confidence. I particularly want to mentor girls from underprivileged backgrounds and help them develop faith in themselves and their future.
You are known not only as a doctor but also for your involvement in fashion and pageants. How do you balance both worlds?
Malini: I love being a doctor, and I also love fashion. I want to use both beauty and brains to give back to society. Just because we belong to one profession does not mean we have to give up our other interests.
Do you believe women face career limitations after the age of 35?
Malini: Absolutely not. Age should never become a barrier to our dreams. I strongly believe women should not feel the need to give up on their aspirations after reaching a certain age.
How do you deal with criticism on social media?
Malini: Everyone has an opinion. In the past, I used to take criticism more seriously. Now, I take what is useful to me and let the rest go.
What should women do to take better care of their health?
Malini: Women often think about everyone else before themselves. I believe in the philosophy of “Fill your cup first.” Regular health check-ups, a balanced diet, exercise and mental well-being should all be given importance.
What does your daily routine look like?
Malini: I usually wake up around 5 a.m. I start my day with journaling and meditation. After that, I have warm water with chia seeds and lemon. I practice Surya Namaskars, go running occasionally, and do reformer Pilates three times a week.
What is your message about mental health?
Malini: Talking about mental health is not a sign of weakness. If you notice changes such as losing interest in things you once enjoyed, withdrawing from people or using food as an emotional coping mechanism, it is important to seek help.
Why did you enter the field of obesity medicine?
Malini: Obesity is a growing health concern. Its impact is particularly significant in the United States. Since obesity can increase the risk of several other chronic health conditions, I wanted to work in this field and help people address their health in a comprehensive way.
How was your journey to the United States?
Malini: When I came to the United States, I had only around $2,000 with me. It was a new country, a new life and there were many challenges. There were even months when I did not have a proper place to stay. I spent some days at train stations and hospital lobbies. But those difficult experiences made me stronger.
How did your medical education journey continue in the United States?
Malini: I came to the United States with the dream of taking my medical education further. I completed my Internal Medicine residency and then pursued a fellowship in Rheumatology. After that, I began working as a physician while also focusing on serving the community.
How has your family supported your journey?
Malini: My husband, Dr. Satish Kadi, has been incredibly supportive. He is an interventional cardiologist. We have two daughters, and they are also proud of my journey. Raising two girls and being an example for them is something that brings me great happiness.
Can we say that successful women had an easy journey?
Malini: Absolutely not. When we see a woman’s success from the outside, her journey may appear easy. But behind every successful woman are many challenges. In many situations, women have to work even harder to earn recognition.
What is the one message that has influenced you the most in life?
Malini: The words my grandfather told me: “Never stop dreaming and never stop believing in yourself.” Those words have guided me forward despite the many challenges I have faced since childhood.
Finally, what is your message to women?
Malini: Do not let your circumstances define you. Take care of your health. Never give up on your dreams. If necessary, give yourself permission to rewrite your story. The white coat is only the beginning. The real goal is to use our knowledge and abilities to make a meaningful difference in society.
