Abhay Dandekar: The Global Indian Pediatrician Amplifying Diaspora Voices

 

In today’s rapidly globalizing world, the Indian diaspora continues to evolve, enriching cultures and communities across the globe. Among the influential voices shaping this narrative is Dr. Abhay Dandekar, a distinguished pediatrician and podcaster who masterfully curates powerful stories from the South Asian diaspora. With over 25 years of experience in pediatric medicine, Dr. Dandekar serves as the Chief of Pediatrics at the Permanente Medical Group—the largest medical group in the United States—and as an Associate Clinical Professor at the University of California. His medical career is deeply rooted in empathy, trust, and advocacy for equitable healthcare, particularly for diverse and underserved populations. Raised in Los Angeles by immigrant parents from Maharashtra, India, Dr. Dandekar embodies the Global Indian identity, balancing his rich cultural heritage with his American upbringing.

Beyond his clinical expertise, Dr. Dandekar is the creator and host of the acclaimed podcast Trust Me I Know What I’m Doing, a platform dedicated to amplifying voices from the South Asian diaspora. The podcast features conversations with a diverse range of guests, including cultural icons like Ustad Zakir Hussain and Madhuri Dixit, political leaders such as Congressmen Ami Bera and Suhas Subramanyam, and thought leaders like U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy and political strategist Neera Tanden. These dialogues explore themes of identity, belonging, culture, and community, offering listeners intimate insights into the evolving South Asian experience worldwide. Dr. Dandekar’s informal yet deeply insightful style fosters authentic storytelling, making each episode a space where listeners can connect with the nuances of diaspora life.

Dr. Dandekar’s personal journey mirrors the complexities and richness of the global Indian context. Growing up immersed in Marathi language and culture at home while navigating American society, he developed a unique perspective on cultural duality and identity. This background fuels his passion for creating bridges across generations and geographies through conversation. His podcast is more than just interviews; it is a community-building initiative that celebrates resilience, innovation, and cultural pride within the diaspora. By highlighting both renowned and emerging voices, Dr. Dandekar ensures that the global Indian community sees itself reflected in mainstream narratives, fostering a stronger sense of belonging and shared identity.

What makes Dr. Abhay Dandekar’s work particularly impactful is the seamless integration of his medical career and his role as a cultural connector. Whether comforting a worried parent in a hospital or engaging a trailblazing leader on his podcast, his approach centers on trust, empathy, and active listening. He often describes conversation as “the antidote to apathy” and a catalyst for new ideas, emphasizing the power of storytelling to inspire change and build lasting relationships. In a world often fragmented by distance and difference, Dr. Dandekar’s efforts offer a blueprint for connection—one conversation at a time.

In summary, Dr. Abhay Dandekar exemplifies the modern Global Indian: deeply rooted in tradition, thriving in diversity, and committed to uplifting others through meaningful dialogue. His dual roles as a pediatrician and podcaster enable him to impact lives both medically and culturally, making him a vital voice in the ongoing story of the South Asian diaspora. For anyone interested in diaspora narratives, healthcare leadership, or cultural identity, Dr. Dandekar’s journey offers inspiration and insight that resonates far beyond borders. Find more Global Indian stories.