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12h ago EN
Padma Shri awardee Dr. Ashok Kumar Mahapatra passes away at 74
Bhubaneswar/New Delhi: Eminent neurosurgeon and Padma Shri awardee Prof. (Dr.) Ashok Kumar Mahapatra passed away while undergoing treatment at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi. He was 74. Dr. Mahapatra had been undergoing treatment at AIIMS, New Delhi, since October 2, 2026. He was initially admitted to SUM Hospital in Bhubaneswar after complaining of severe head pain. As his condition deteriorated, a specialist medical team accompanied him to New Delhi for further treatment. He was reportedly hospitalised due to severe neurological pain and an underlying brain ailment. Dr. Mahapatra was widely known for leading the historic 2017 surgery to separate Odisha's craniopagus conjoined twins, Jaga and Balia, at AIIMS, New Delhi. He served as the Vice-Chancellor of Siksha 'O' Anusandhan University and was its Principal Adviser at the time of his demise. Earlier, he had also served as the Director of AIIMS New Delhi and AIIMS Bhubaneswar. Early life and education Born on December 29, 1952, in Puri district of Odisha, Dr. Mahapatra grew up in a rural environment and developed an early interest in medical science. He enrolled at MKCG Medical College in Berhampur in 1970 and completed his MBBS in 1975. He subsequently pursued an MS in Surgery from AIIMS, New Delhi, followed by an MCh in Neurosurgery in 1982. A distinguished career in neurosurgery Dr. Mahapatra began his academic career at the Department of Neurosurgery at AIIMS, New Delhi, in 1983. During his 34-year association with the institution, he held several key positions, including Professor, Head of Department and Dean of Research. From 2006 to 2009, he served as the Director of the Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences (SGPGI) in Lucknow. In 2012, he took charge as the first Director of AIIMS Bhubaneswar. He played an important role in developing the institution's academic, research and healthcare facilities. He later joined SOA University as its Vice-Chancellor and, after completing his tenure, continued to serve as Principal Adviser (Health Sciences). Jaga-Balia surgery: A landmark achievement One of the most defining chapters of Dr. Mahapatra's career was his role in the complex separation surgery of conjoined twins Jaga and Balia from Kandhamal district of Odisha. In 2017, a large team of doctors led by him at AIIMS, New Delhi, successfully separated the twins through a two-stage surgical procedure. The challenging operation became a landmark in India's medical history and brought him widespread recognition across the country. The achievement was also recognised by the Limca Book of Records in 2020. Contributions to research and medical education Apart from his clinical achievements, Dr. Mahapatra made significant contributions to medical research, academic development and the training of future generations of doctors. According to his professional profile, he had around 870 research publications to his credit, authored 16 books and contributed more than 140 chapters to various publications. He also guided 12 PhD scholars and was associated with more than 20 research projects over three decades. He played an important role in the development of professional organisations related to neurosurgery in India and was actively involved in advancing medical education and research. Padma Shri and other honours For his exceptional contributions to the field of medicine, the Government of India conferred the Padma Shri on Dr. Mahapatra in 2025. President Droupadi Murmu presented the honour in recognition of his service and achievements in medical science. Over the course of his career, he received around 75 awards, delivered 17 orations and earned several lifetime achievement honours. He was also associated with the National Academy of Sciences and the Academy of Medical Sciences. Beyond medicine Dr. Mahapatra's contributions extended beyond the operating theatre and academic institutions. Alongside his medical practice, he remained actively involved in social, cultural and spiritual activities. He authored several books and frequently highlighted the importance of understanding the relationship between medical science and spirituality. He emphasised human values, compassion and ethical conduct in healthcare, alongside scientific excellence. His journey from rural Odisha to some of India's leading medical institutions stands as an inspiration for young doctors, medical students and researchers. With his passing, the medical fraternity has lost an accomplished neurosurgeon, dedicated teacher, prolific researcher and committed humanitarian. His contributions to patient care, medical education, research and institution-building are expected to remain an enduring part of India's medical legacy.
