Bengaluru: The whole nation along with the medical community mourns the passing of Dr KM Cherian, a renowned cardiac surgeon who revolutionised heart care in India. Dr Cherian, affectionately known as the “Big Daddy” of cardiac surgery, passed away in Bengaluru on January 26, leaving behind a legacy of groundbreaking achievements and compassionate care.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi today condoled the demise of Cherian. Taking to X, PM Modi expressed his grief over the passing away of Cherian.
Pained by the passing of Dr. KM Cherian, one of the most distinguished doctors of our country. His contribution to cardiology will always be monumental, not only saving many lives but also mentoring doctors of the future. His emphasis on technology and innovation always stood…
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) January 26, 2025
J Nandakumar ji, who is the National Convenor of Prajna Pravah expressed his ggriefover the passing away of Dr Cherian. He paid tribute to Dr Cherian on X, wherein he said, ” Tribute to the remarkable legacy of famous cardiothoracic surgeon Dr. K.M. Cherian, who installed the statue of the Father of Surgery Acharya Sushruta at the famous RACS in Melbourne. Born in Kerala, he was very proud of Bharat’s scientific heritage & was honoured with the Padma Shri..”
Tribute to the remarkable legacy of famous cardiothoracic surgeon Dr. K.M. Cherian, who installed the statue of the Father of Surgery Acharya Sushruta at famous RACS, in Melbourne. Born in Kerala, he was very proud of Bharat's scientific heritage & was honored with the Padma… pic.twitter.com/D72OHr4zLl
— J Nandakumar (@kumarnandaj) January 26, 2025
A Life of Firsts and Unmatched Contributions
Dr. Cherian, a Padma Shri awardee, revolutionised cardiac care in India. From performing India’s first coronary artery bypass surgery in 1975 to achieving the country’s first heart-lung transplant and pioneering paediatric cardiac surgery, his list of groundbreaking achievements is unparalleled.
Known for his relentless dedication, Dr. Cherian not only saved lives but also put India on the global map of cardiac care. His contributions extended beyond the operating table as the founder of institutions like the Madras Medical Mission, Frontier Lifeline Hospital, and Frontier Mediville, India’s first medical Special Economic Zone (SEZ) and science park.
His commitment to medical education and advancement further cemented his influence on the next generation of cardiac surgeons
Remembered by Peers and Protegés
“A doyen of heart surgery and an institution by himself, Dr KM Cherian has left a void impossible to fill,” said Dr. Vivek Javali, Chairman of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Fortis Bengaluru. “We Indian heart surgeons looked up to him with the highest regard.”
Dr Cherian’s influence was global, having trained under legends like Dr. John W. Kirklin and Dr. Albert Starr. His first open-heart surgery, performed on his 26th birthday in Australia, marked the beginning of an illustrious career.
A Humble Beginning, A Monumental Journey
Born on March 8, 1942, in Kayamkulam, Kerala, Dr. Cherian’s medical journey began at the Christian Medical College, Vellore. His quest for excellence took him across continents, but his heart always remained in India, where he achieved numerous milestones. In 1995, he performed India’s second heart transplant and later, the first heart-lung transplant. He was also a trailblazer in paediatric cardiac surgery, changing the lives of countless children.
Dr Cherian’s achievements earned him numerous accolades. He served as the honorary surgeon to the President of India and became the first Indian to preside over the World Society of Cardio-Thoracic Surgeons in 2010. His name is immortalised on a commemorative stone in Kos Island, Greece, alongside other global medical pioneers.
Despite his towering accomplishments, Dr Cherian remained a man of humility and empathy. Through his charitable trust, he established the St. Gregorios Cardio-Vascular Centre in Kerala, and his educational trust founded “The Study – L’ecole Internationale” in Puducherry, emphasising his dedication to giving back to society.
A Celebration of Life and LegacyAt the first National Coronary Surgery Congress in Bengaluru, Dr Cherian released his autobiography, The Hand of God. The event, marked by pride and celebration, saw him surrounded by his peers and admirers as they cut a cake in his honor at JW Marriott.
