Eminent cardiologist and Padma Shri awardee Dr Mani Kumar Chhetri dies at 106 in Kolkata

Renowned cardiologist and medical pioneer Dr Mani Kumar Chhetri, a recipient of the Padma Shri , passed away late Sunday night at his residence in Kolkata at the age of 106 . Family members said the beloved physician had suffered a head injury from a fall about 15 days earlier and, despite initial signs of recovery after hospital treatment, his health deteriorated in the days that followed .

Born on May 23, 1920, in Darjeeling, Dr Chhetri hailed from the Teesta Valley region and pursued medical studies with distinction. He completed his MBBS in 1944 from Calcutta Medical College and later earned advanced qualifications abroad, including an FRCP from London, which helped shape his internationally recognised expertise in cardiology and endocrinology .

Dr Chhetri’s illustrious career spanned more than eight decades , during which he became one of Kolkata’s most respected clinicians. He began practicing cardiology in the 1940s and was widely regarded as a pioneer in advancing modern heart care and endocrine practice in India . He was known for his extraordinary clinical insight and compassionate patient care , treating generations of patients, including political leaders and prominent citizens such as former West Bengal Chief Minister Jyoti Basu.

Throughout his professional life, Dr Chhetri held several important leadership positions in the healthcare system . He served as director of IPGMER and SSKM Hospital , where he played a pivotal role in modernising medical services. He also held the post of director of health services for West Bengal and was associated with private medical institutions, including serving as medical director at AMRI Hospital earlier in his career.

In recognition of his outstanding contributions to medicine , Dr Chhetri was honoured with the Padma Shri in 1974 . Even after his official retirement from government service in 1982, he remained active in medical practice well into his later years, continuing to see patients until about two years ago .

Later in life, Dr Chhetri coped with dementia, which gradually limited his clinical involvement. Nonetheless, colleagues and family said he remained mentally engaged and passionate about the latest developments in medicine. His commitment to lifelong learning and service earned him admiration across the medical community.

News of his passing has prompted tributes from medical associations and public figures, including Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee , who praised his immeasurable impact on healthcare in West Bengal and beyond . The West Bengal Doctors Forum has announced plans to honour his memory, reflecting the deep respect he commanded among peers.