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Dr P Venugopal, a legendary figure in Indian cardiac surgery and former Director of AIIMS, passed away on October 8, 2024. A pioneer in the field, Dr Venugopal conducted India’s first heart transplant and performed over 50,000 heart surgeries throughout his illustrious career. His passing marks the end of an era in the evolution of cardiac care in India. He was cremated at the Lodhi Crematorium this afternoon, leaving behind a monumental legacy in healthcare.
Dr Venugopal's groundbreaking work in cardiac surgery not only advanced heart care in India but also transformed the field globally. His commitment to ensuring that Indians had access to advanced heart transplant procedures was a central part of his mission. Harbinder Narula, CEO of BW Healthcare World and BW Wellbeing World, fondly recalls a conversation with Dr Venugopal last year. During their discussion, the esteemed surgeon shared his journey and emphasised how his motivation stemmed from the fact that heart transplants in the West were often reserved for their own citizens, leaving Indian patients without access. His drive was to change that paradigm for Indian patients.
When asked about his message to young cardiac surgeons, Dr Venugopal underscored the importance of teamwork in heart transplant surgeries. He believed that success in such complex procedures required every member of the surgical team, including the patient, to be fully prepared. His advice to the younger generation of heart surgeons focused on dedication and motivation. He often remarked that cardiac surgery had evolved from being a last resort to the beginning of hope for many patients. He observed that people now come forward with the expectation of resuming a normal life post-surgery, a significant shift in patient attitudes over his lifetime. This, he noted, places a great responsibility on the surgeons, who must rise to meet these expectations.
Dr Venugopal's contribution to cardiac care extended beyond his surgical prowess. He was also an exceptional trainer, having mentored over 100 cardio-thoracic surgeons worldwide. His influence on the next generation of surgeons was profound, and his dedication to the profession was unwavering.
In recognition of his monumental contributions, Dr Venugopal was awarded the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian honor, in 1998. His commitment to healthcare and his country has left an indelible mark on the medical community.
In 2023, he published his memoirs titled Heartfelt, co-authored with his wife, Priya Sarkar. The book provided a deeper look into his life, his career, and his personal reflections on the challenges and triumphs of cardiac surgery in India.
Dr Venugopal’s contributions to cardiac care will be remembered by all. His legacy of saving lives, advancing cardiac surgery, and inspiring future generations will continue to shape healthcare for years to come.
