BusinessK

“Passion and hard work can transform dreams into reality”

In the heart of Manipur, amidst its verdant hills and vibrant culture, stands a towering figure of enterprise and compassion — Dr. Thangjam Dhabali Singh, Chairman and Managing Director of BABINA Group of Companies. A doctor by training and an entrepreneur by spirit, his journey is a story of humble beginnings, unwavering values, and relentless hard work that turned dreams into impactful realities.

Early Life and Education: Humility in the Foundation

Born on 9th February 1954 in Chingmeirong, Imphal, Dr. Dhabali Singh grew up in a family of ten siblings. From a young age, he was deeply shaped by values of hard work, sincerity, and perseverance — virtues instilled by his parents. His early exposure to business, helping in his family's grocery shop and trading Manipuri handloom products, quietly sowed the seeds of entrepreneurial curiosity alongside academic ambition.

He pursued MBBS from the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) in 1977 and later completed his MD in Pathology from PGIMER, Chandigarh in 1982, earning a First Order Silver Medal as the departmental topper. He was also one of the few proud nominees for the prestigious Kataria Memorial Gold Medal, awarded to the best outgoing resident of PGI, Chandigarh. This chapter of life, while rich in scholarly achievement, would soon intersect with the entrepreneurial inclinations nurtured in childhood.

A Dreamer with a Humble Beginning

His professional career began in academia, teaching at RIMS, Imphal. Yet, the spark of entrepreneurship, ignited by his father’s inspiration and life’s circumstances, led him to voluntarily retire as Associate Professor in 1994. It was a bold step into the unknown, with scarce resources and limited infrastructure, but with one clear mission — to establish an affordable, state-of-the-art diagnostic facility in Manipur.

Thus, BABINA Diagnostics was born, embodying the dictum he lived by:“Start small, grow slowly and steadily, but certainly.”

Leadership in Healthcare and Hospitality

Under the visionary and dynamic leadership of Dr. Thangjam Dhabali Singh, the BABINA Group of Companies has grown into one of North Eastern India’s most prominent and respected healthcare and hospitality conglomerates. What began as a modest diagnostic center has expanded into a diverse group of successful ventures, each making a significant impact in its respective field. The Group’s flagship unit, BABINA Diagnostics, stands today as the leading medical diagnostic center in the region, providing advanced, reliable, and affordable healthcare services to the people of Manipur and neighboring states.

Expanding beyond healthcare, Dr. Dhabali established The Classic Group of Hotels, a chain of star-rated hotels in Imphal, along with a serene resort at Sendra, offering world-class hospitality and promoting Manipur as an emerging travel destination. A landmark achievement under his leadership is the establishment of AOI-BABINA Specialty Hospital, the first-ever comprehensive cancer care hospital in Manipur, which has revolutionized oncology services in the state by making specialized cancer treatment accessible locally. Alongside this, the group runs BABINA Hospital, a multispecialty facility catering to diverse medical needs.

Dr. Dhabali’s vision extended beyond business success. It was always about creating opportunities, especially in a region grappling with unemployment. Today, his ventures support the livelihoods of over 1200 employees, impacting families and communities alike.

A Brief Account of Family

Dr. Dhabali is happily married to Dr. Sanjenbam Rita, and together they have built a family rooted in compassion and service. Babina, the eldest, is a pathologist and currently serves as the Director of Babina Diagnostics. Momocha, the second child, works as a consultant radiologist at the same diagnostic center. Naoba, the youngest, after completing his hospitality management course, is now the Director of the hospitality units of the group.

Motivation and Management Philosophy

What sustained him through challenges like financial constraints, manpower shortages, infrastructural gaps, and law and order issues was a deep-rooted adherence to his core values — reliability, time management, and financial discipline.

His leadership style is a blend of friendship and authority, fostering both respect and approachability. “I always try to balance family life and work properly,” he shares, reflecting his belief in harmony over hustle.

When faced with moments of doubt — especially during the tough start-up phase — it was the unwavering support of his family and team that kept him going. His driving force remains his lifelong mantra:“Yes, I can do it.”

A Vision Beyond Business

Dr. Dhabali Thangjam is more than an entrepreneur; he is a passionate community leader, actively involved in social and professional organizations like the Rotary Club, Indian Medical Association, Manipur Tourism Forum, and Manipur Chamber of Commerce & Industries. He has promoted tourism in Manipur at national and international forums, believing in the state’s untapped potential.

A sports lover at heart, his enthusiasm today translates into promoting games and sports, particularly football, as a means to engage and inspire the youth.

His leadership goes beyond business strategy. In one of the most moving aspects of his journey, Dr. Dhabali has helped bring back several dejected, substance-abused employees into normal, productive life. It’s a side of entrepreneurship rarely seen but deeply needed — one that extends a hand to those society often forgets.

Life Lessons and Words for the Next Generation

Dr. Dhabali's advice to young entrepreneurs is grounded and pragmatic:“Proper planning, calculated risk-taking, hard work, time management, and financial discipline.”

He openly acknowledges that his most valuable lessons came from decisions made in moments of anger, serving as a powerful reminder to future leaders about the importance of maintaining emotional control.

The Road Ahead

With the same passion and clarity that marked his early ventures, Dr. Dhabali Thangjam now envisions three new projects: a five-star hotel, a Nursing and Paramedical Institute, and a Wellness Centre. These initiatives reaffirm his commitment to healthcare, education, and employment generation in Manipur.

Passion and Hard Work, the True Game Changers

Dr. Thangjam Dhabali Singh’s life exemplifies how passion and hard work can transform dreams into reality. From a young boy assisting in a grocery shop to a visionary leader reshaping Manipur’s healthcare and hospitality landscape, his journey is both humbling and inspiring.

In his words —“Stay positive and always remember, Yes, I can do it.”