Eminent cardiac surgeon Dr KM Cherian, who performed the country's first coronary artery bypass here about 50 years ago, has died, sources said on Sunday.
The city-based veteran, in his 80s, died in Bengaluru on Saturday after reportedly collapsing during a function.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi described Dr Cherian as one of the most distinguished doctors in the country, while Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin said his "pioneering work" saved many lives.
"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," a post on the official PMO 'X' handle said.
"His emphasis on technology and innovation always stood out. My thoughts are with his family and friends in this hour of grief: PM @narendramodi," it added.
Stalin said he was saddened by the veteran's death.
"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," he said in a social media post.
The CM expressed his heartfelt condolences to Dr Cherian's family and loved ones and said his contributions will continue to inspire excellence in medicine.
Tributes and condolences to Dr Cherian poured in from various sections.
"It is with profound sadness that we mourn Padmashri Dr K.M. Cherian @kmcherian.....a true pioneer who performed the first coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) 50 years ago," Dr Rajesh Rajan, Chairman, Board of Governors, Indian Association of Clinical Cardiologists & President, Association of MD Physicians, said on 'X.'
Dr Soumya Swaminathan, former WHO scientist condoled Dr Cherian's demise.
"Deeply saddened to hear of Dr KM Cherian's passing. His memoir was just released & we had long conversations recently - about the future of innovation & health technology development in India. Certainly a source of inspiration to many, apart from the countless lives he saved! RIP," she wrote on the micro-blogging site.
Puducherry Lt Governor K Kailashnathan expressed his deep sorrow and grief over the passing of Cherian.
In his message of condolence, the Lt Governor said that Padmasri Dr Cherian was a globally reputed cardiac surgeon who always approached the future with optimism and was a guide to several people.
Dr Cherian, who performed the country's first CABG, has won a number of awards, including the prestigious Padma Shri and had founded the city-based 'Frontier Lifeline'.
A number of medical professionals and others condoled Cherian's passing away, hailing him as a pioneer of heart surgery.
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