India's Pioneer In Cardiac Surgery, Dr M. K. Cherian Dies
The Pre-eminent cardiac surgeon of India, Dr K. M. Cherian, the man who was a beacon of hope, died. He took his last breath in Bengaluru. Dr. Cherian’s departure left an aching void and left the nation grieving. The pioneer was known for his achievements that elevated India on the world map of cardiac care.
The Padma Shri awardee is known for his unmatchable contributions to the cardiac care of the country. From performing India’s first coronary artery bypass surgery in 1975 to pioneering the country’s first heart-lung transplant, and paediatric cardiac surgery, Dr Cherian’s lists of first are long.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin expressed condolences at the loss of the inspiring figure. Taking to his X, Stalin said he is “Deeply saddened by the passing of Dr. K.M.Cherian, Chairman and CEO of Frontier Lifeline Hospital, and a globally renowned name in cardiac surgery. His pioneering work in heart care saved countless lives and inspired many in the medical field”.
Deeply saddened by the passing of Dr. K.M.Cherian, Chairman and CEO of Frontier Lifeline Hospital, and a globally renowned name in cardiac surgery.
His pioneering work in heart care saved countless lives and inspired many in the medical field.
My heartfelt condolences to his… pic.twitter.com/N5ijuZAYcJ
— M.K.Stalin (@mkstalin) January 26, 2025
Hailed from Kerala’s Kayamkulam, Dr Cheriyan’s quest for took him higher. He was trained under legends like Dr John W. Kirklin and Dr Albert Starr.
In India, he performed and excelled in something that once considered impossible. He achieved India’s second heart transplant in 1995 and soon followed with the first heart-lung transplant. He also shined bright in the Paediatric cardiac surgery.
Dr Cheriyan also 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.
It was only couple of days ago, his biography Just an Instrument was launched at the Kerala Literature Festival (KLF) 2025, held at Kozhikode.
As the world bid him adieu, Dr Cherian’s legacy will continue to live through the lives he saved, and hands he trained.
