Punam Krishan – Inspiring GP, Acclaimed Author, and Media Personality Who Overcame Challenges and Made History
From life-threatening medical experiences to groundbreaking TV moments, Punam Krishan’s journey is one of resilience, representation, and remarkable achievement.
Introduction
Punam Krishan is a Scottish-Indian GP, acclaimed author, broadcaster, and media personality whose work bridges the gap between healthcare and the public in an engaging and relatable way. With her roots deeply connected to both Scotland and Punjab, she has embraced her multicultural identity to inspire others while breaking barriers in mainstream British media. Her story is not without its struggles—facing medical career burnout and surviving a traumatic postpartum experience—but her determination has transformed these challenges into platforms for advocacy, awareness, and positive change.
As a doctor, author, and public figure, Punam Krishan has used her voice to address important health issues, promote cultural inclusivity, and connect with audiences through television, radio, podcasts, and literature. Her achievements stand as a testament to persistence, adaptability, and an unwavering commitment to making a difference.
Quick Bio
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Dr. Punam Krishan |
| Date of Birth | 28 May 1983 |
| Age | 42 years (as of 2025) |
| Nationality | Scottish |
| Ethnicity | Indian (Punjabi) descent |
| Accent | Glaswegian |
| Education | University of Glasgow – Medicine (2006) |
| Occupation | GP, Author, Broadcaster, Podcaster |
| Husband | Dr. Sandesh Gulhane (MSP) |
| Children | Two |
| Notable Works | How to Be a Doctor and Other Life-Saving Jobs, The Medic Mum Podcast |
| Famous For | First traditional Bollywood dance on Strictly Come Dancing |
Early Life and Education
Punam Krishan was born and raised in Glasgow, Scotland, in a traditional tenement home alongside her younger sister and extended family. Her parents, who had emigrated from Kapurthala, Punjab, instilled strong values of education, perseverance, and cultural pride. Growing up in a close-knit community, Punam developed a strong sense of identity that embraced both her Scottish upbringing and Punjabi heritage.
Her academic journey began at Hillhead Primary School and continued at Notre Dame High School. She later pursued medicine at the University of Glasgow, a path encouraged by her family’s emphasis on professional careers. Despite facing setbacks, such as having to retake her third-year medical exams, Punam graduated in 2006, setting the foundation for her career in healthcare.
Medical Career and Turning Points
After graduation, Punam began her career as a GP partner in a medical practice. Her work was fulfilling but also demanding, and by 2017, the pressures of the role led to burnout. Choosing to prioritise her well-being and work-life balance, she transitioned to locum GP work, which allowed her greater flexibility.
A pivotal moment came when she publicly shared her experiences with burnout, racism in healthcare, and patient expectations. These honest reflections resonated widely, earning her recognition as a voice for change in the medical profession. Punam’s openness about the realities of being a doctor helped her connect deeply with both healthcare professionals and the general public.
Rise as a Media Personality
Punam’s transition into broadcasting began in 2019 when she became the presenter of Laid Bare on BBC Scotland. The show took a unique approach to health, combining thorough medical check-ups with candid conversations. This engaging format showcased her ability to communicate complex medical topics in an accessible and empathetic way.
In 2021, Punam joined BBC’s Morning Live as the resident GP, a role that significantly increased her public visibility. She also became a regular voice on BBC Radio Scotland, offering expert advice and answering listeners’ health questions. Her ability to blend medical expertise with warmth and relatability made her a trusted figure in UK media.
Author and Podcast Host
In 2022, Punam published her first children’s book, How to Be a Doctor and Other Life-Saving Jobs, aimed at inspiring young readers to explore healthcare careers. The book received positive reviews for its informative yet engaging approach. Building on this success, she was commissioned to write two more children’s books—You and Your Body and A Superhero’s First Aid Manual.
Alongside her writing, Punam co-hosts The Medic Mum Podcast, which launched during the COVID-19 pandemic. The podcast explores parenting, health, and modern family life, and was shortlisted for Best Podcast at the Glomama Awards in 2022. Her work as an author and podcaster has further solidified her position as a multi-platform communicator and advocate.
Strictly Come Dancing and Cultural Representation
In 2024, Punam made headlines as a contestant on Strictly Come Dancing’s 22nd series, partnered with professional dancer Gorka Márquez. She created history by performing the show’s first traditional Bollywood dance, a moment celebrated for its cultural significance and joyful representation. Although she was eliminated in week six, her participation inspired many viewers from minority backgrounds to embrace their cultural heritage with pride.
This appearance wasn’t just entertainment—it was a statement about diversity and inclusion on one of the UK’s most-watched TV programmes. Punam’s performance bridged cultures and brought traditional South Asian dance into the mainstream spotlight.
Advocacy and Public Engagement
Beyond her on-screen roles, Punam has used her platform to advocate for women’s health, mental well-being, and cultural inclusivity. Her personal experience of surviving a severe postpartum haemorrhage has made her an outspoken supporter of maternal health awareness.
She has collaborated with brands, charities, and educational platforms to promote health literacy and empower communities. From keynote speaking to brand partnerships, Punam’s work consistently reflects her mission to make healthcare information accessible and engaging.
Conclusion
Punam Krishan’s journey is one of courage, resilience, and purposeful evolution. From her early years in Glasgow to becoming a respected GP, accomplished author, and celebrated TV personality, she has faced challenges head-on and transformed them into opportunities to inspire others. Her blend of medical expertise, cultural pride, and media influence has made her a unique and powerful figure in British public life.
Her legacy is still unfolding, but already she has made a lasting mark by promoting health education, embracing multicultural identity, and showing that professional success can coexist with authenticity and humanity.
FAQ
Q1: Who is Punam Krishan?
A Scottish-Indian GP, author, and media personality known for her healthcare expertise, children’s books, and TV appearances.
Q2: What is Punam Krishan famous for?
She is known for being BBC’s Morning Live resident GP, authoring health-themed children’s books, and making history with the first Bollywood dance on Strictly Come Dancing.
Q3: Is Punam Krishan still practising medicine?
Yes, she continues to work as a GP while balancing her media and writing commitments.
Q4: What books has she written?
Her titles include How to Be a Doctor and Other Life-Saving Jobs, You and Your Body, and A Superhero’s First Aid Manual.
Q5: What topics does she advocate for?
Women’s health, cultural inclusivity, mental well-being, and health literacy.
