Obituary: Dr. Mukthalata Alva Somanath

Updated: Apr 20

Dr. Mukthalata Alva Somanath, lovingly known as Muktha, passed away on Thursday,

April 10, 2025, peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, strength, and

community. Born in Ulipady near Mangalore, India, Muktha's life was shaped by her

strong parents, seven siblings, and a close-knit extended family.

Muktha earned her medical degree from Mysore Medical College and went on to

specialize in radiation oncology at the Medical College of Virginia (MCV). She later

advanced her training through fellowships at Beth Israel Hospital and Weill Cornell –

Cornell-NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital in New York City.

During her time in Mysore, she met her life partner, T.K. Somanath, beginning a journey

that lasted over five decades. They were married in 1971 and immigrated to Richmond,

Virginia, carrying with them dreams, determination, and $508. Together, they traveled

the world with friends and family.

Muktha was a founding member of the Hindu Center of Virginia and a force behind T.K.

as he began the work of Better Housing Coalition, helping to establish spaces rooted in

faith, culture, and community.

She is survived by her beloved husband, Som; their children, Bharat and Rupa (Vivek

Murthy); her cherished grandchildren, Nicholas, Nalini, Milind, Madin, and Sita, and her

family in India and across the world, including two siblings, cousins, nieces and

nephews who she loved deeply.

Muktha taught us to speak our minds with honesty, believe deeply in democracy, care

for those around us, and always strive for the perfect dosa.

In lieu of flowers,

please donate to the Hindu Center of Virginia

or Better Housing Coalition