Dr. Mani Kumar Chhetri Eminent cardiologist and Padma Shri awardee passes away at 106

Family sources say the renowned doctor had suffered a head injury after a fall about a fortnight ago and had largely been bedridden since returning home from the hospital

PTI, Apr 06, 2026, Kolkata : Eminent cardiologist and Padma Shri award recipient Dr Mani Chhetri has died at his residence here at the age of 106.

Family sources said the renowned doctor had suffered a head injury after a fall about a fortnight ago and had largely been bedridden since returning home from the hospital.

"He had shown signs of recovery after being discharged. But his condition deteriorated gradually over the past few days," a family member said.

The legendary doctor died late on Sunday night.

Born on May 23, 1920, in Darjeeling, Chhetri completed his MBBS in 1944 before going abroad for higher studies.

He later returned to India and built a distinguished career as a cardiologist, earning widespread recognition for his contributions to the field.

Dr Chhetri served as the director of the premier state-run SSKM Hospital and also held the position of director of health services in West Bengal.

Despite his administrative responsibilities, he continued to attend to patients throughout his career.

In recognition of his contributions in the field of medicine, Dr Chhetri was awarded the Padma Shri in 1974.

Even after retiring from government service in 1982, he remained actively involved in medical practice for decades.

Chhetri had been suffering from dementia in recent years, which forced him to cut down on his clinical engagements. "He continued attending to patients until about two years ago," a family member said.

KalimNews: 

West Bengal Doctors Forum Adds:

Born on 23rd May 1920 in the serene hills of Darjeeling, Dr. Chhetri’s life was a testament to brilliance shaped by discipline and perseverance. He earned his MBBS, MD from the University of Calcutta and MRCP from the Royal College of London, rising to become a radiant figure in the firmament of medicine. His academic excellence, clinical acumen, and deep humanity brought him recognition and reverence both nationally and internationally.

As Surgeon-Superintendent of SSKM Hospital, he demonstrated resolute leadership; as Professor-Director of Cardiology and Medicine at IPGMER, he embodied intellectual depth and innovation; and as Director of Bangur Institute of Neurology, he left an indelible imprint on institutional growth. In every role, he stood as an architect of progress, strengthening healthcare systems and touching countless lives.

Even at the remarkable age of 106, his intellectual sharpness and tireless curiosity remained undiminished. Until he fell ill, he continued to follow the latest advances in medical science with remarkable engagement—an enduring reflection of his lifelong commitment to learning and to his profession. Such alertness and contemporaneity at such an advanced age remain exceedingly rare, not just in our state, but across the country and beyond.

Dr. Chhetri was the very embodiment of integrity, discipline, and compassion. His gentle mentorship, profound wisdom, and unwavering values have left an enduring legacy in the lives of his students, colleagues, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. He was not merely a physician—he was an institution, an ethos, an inspiration.

His passing marks not just a loss, but the quiet closing of a glorious chapter. Yet, his ideals, his work, and his memory will continue to guide and inspire us.

Born: 23 May 1920 in Teesta Valley T.E., Darjeeling, West Bengal.

Education: Educated in Darjeeling (Primary Schooling Darjeeling Municipality School) Passed Matriculation from Calcutta University in 1936 and completed his MBBS from Government Medical College, Calcutta in 1944, later obtaining his FRCP from London in 1956. In 1969, he obtained a fellowship from the American College of Cardiology. In 1972, he received a fellowship from the Indian Academy of Medical Sciences. In 1973, he received a fellowship from the Royal College of Physicians.

Medical Pioneer: Served as Professor and Director of the Department of Cardiology at IPGMER & SSKM Hospital, Kolkata, starting in 1960.

Public Service: Served as the Director of West Bengal State Health Services in 1976.

Honours: Awarded the prestigious Padma Shri by the Government of India in 1974.

Legacy: Passed away in April 2026 at age 106 at his home in Ballygunj, Kolkata. He was recognized as a pioneer in cardiology and endocrinology in India.