Renowned cardiologist and Padma Shri awardee Dr Mani Kumar Chetri passed away at his residence in Ballygunge Place, South Kolkata, on Sunday at the age of 106, bringing to a close a remarkable life dedicated to medicine, education, and public service.
Chetri had been suffering from age-related ailments for some time. Around 15 days ago, he sustained a head injury following a fall and was admitted to Manipal Hospital. After undergoing treatment for a few days, he returned home, where he breathed his last.
Born in 1920 in Darjeeling, Chetri built a long and distinguished career, earning recognition not only as a skilled cardiologist but also as an able administrator and an exceptional teacher. He served as the State Director of Health Services and played a crucial role as Director of SSKM Hospital, contributing significantly to the state’s healthcare system.
In recognition of his immense contributions to medicine, he was conferred with the Padma Shri in 1974.
Even well past the age of 100, Chetri remained intellectually active and deeply engaged with the field of medicine. He maintained a disciplined routine that included regular study, note-taking, and interactions with students. Known for his insatiable curiosity, he would diligently read newly published medical textbooks, often keeping his desk filled with books on pharmacology and medicine alongside notebooks of handwritten notes.
A firm believer in discipline as the foundation of longevity, Chetri followed a strict daily schedule— waking up at 4:00 am taking regular walks, and eating meals at fixed times. He was known to say, “I eat both vegetarian and non-vegetarian food, but I eat by the clock. And I stay cheerful; I love life.” He had also, years ago, predicted the growing importance of gene therapy in the future of medical science.
His students, many of whom are now established professionals across India and abroad, continued to regard him as a lifelong mentor. He was widely respected not only for his knowledge but also for his humility and courtesy— often greeting others with a warm Namaskar.
Over the course of his long life, Chetri had the opportunity to interact with several prominent figures, including Bidhan Chandra Roy and Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.
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