From Medicine Shop to Hospital Empire: The Rise and Fall of Gopal Khemka
Patna: In a shocking incident that has rocked Bihar’s business community, renowned industrialist and owner of Magadh Hospital, Gopal Khemka, was shot dead by unidentified assailants late Friday night near his residence in Patna. The murder occurred in front of the gate of his apartment at Ramgulam Chowk, just steps away from the Gandhi Maidan police station.
According to family sources, the incident took place around 11:30 pm when Khemka was returning home from Bankipur Club, driving his own vehicle. As he reached his residence, two bike-borne criminals opened fire at him at close range, shooting him in the head. He was immediately rushed to Mediversal Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries during treatment.
A Self-Made Businessman: From Medicine Shop to Hospital Owner
Gopal Khemka’s journey is widely regarded as an inspirational story in Bihar’s entrepreneurial circles. He began his career with a small medicine shop named Aushdhi Medico on Ashoka Rajpath in Patna. Over the years, the business expanded significantly and now has multiple branches across the city.
After establishing himself in the pharmaceutical sector, Khemka diversified into real estate, petroleum, and healthcare. He launched his first industrial venture, GK Cotton, in the Hajipur Industrial Area in 1985, and later partnered in a carton manufacturing business.
His family also owns a petrol pump on Fraser Road and is the promoter of Magadh Hospital, a multi-specialty facility located in Rajendra Nagar, Patna.
A Family of Entrepreneurs
Gopal Khemka was the second among four brothers—Vijay, Gopal, Kishan, and Kanhaiya Khemka—all of whom have been associated with the medicine and healthcare industry. The family is known for its business acumen and philanthropic outreach.
Khemka is survived by two sons and a daughter. His elder son, Gunjan Khemka, was also shot dead seven years ago in Hajipur under similar circumstances, a case that remains unresolved. His younger son, Dr. Gaurav Khemka, is a practicing doctor at IGIMS, while his daughter resides in London with her family.
A Man Remembered for His Kindness
Khemka was not only known for his business ventures but also for his generosity and support to the underprivileged. A former employee emotionally recalled,
“He was like God to me. My son works in London today because of his help. I have seen him rise from the days of a small medicine shop. He never forgot the people who stood with him.”
Photos from 2016 also show him personally helping flood victims in Danapur.
Investigation Underway, No Arrests Yet
As of Saturday morning, the police had not made any arrests. Forensic teams have examined the crime scene, and the Special Task Force (STF) has been roped in to assist in tracking down the killers. Given that the murder occurred in a high-security zone just 300 metres from a police station, the incident has sparked public outrage and demands for accountability.
Police officials have yet to comment on possible motives, but early indications suggest the killing was planned, with the assailants lying in wait for Khemka’s arrival.
Gopal Khemka’s death marks a tragic end to a life defined by determination, entrepreneurship, and public service. As investigations unfold, the people of Patna mourn the loss of a man who rose from modest beginnings to become a pillar of Bihar’s business landscape.
