India’s Angioplasty Pioneer Mathew Kalarickal Passes Away

Why in the News ?

Renowned cardiologist Dr. Mathew Samuel Kalarickal, known as the “Father of Angioplasty” in India, passed away at Apollo Hospitals, Chennai, at age 77. He pioneered angioplasty in India and trained numerous cardiologists across Asia.

India’s Angioplasty Pioneer Mathew Kalarickal Passes Away

A Pioneer of Angioplasty in India :

  • Mathew Kalarickal performed India’s first angioplasty in 1986.
  • Trained under Andreas Gruentzig — the Father of Interventional Cardiology.
  • Returned to India in 1985 to advance heart treatment beyond bypass surgery.
  • Instrumental in spreading angioplasty awareness and setting up facilities across India.

Contributions to Cardiology and Medical Training

  • Established angioplasty programs in Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, UAE, Oman, Indonesia, Thailand, and Malaysia.
  • Saw angioplasty development as a moral obligation for better heart care.
  • Mentored many doctors, including Sai Satish, who credited him for his medical growth.

Honours, Legacy, and Personal Life

  • Recipient of Padma Shri (2000), B.C. Roy Award (1996), and Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa) by Tamil Nadu Dr. M.G.R. Medical University (2003).
  • Former President of Asian-Pacific Society of Interventional Cardiology (1995-97).
  • Remembered as a genius physician, compassionate doctor, and dedicated family man.
  • Survived by his wife, daughter, and son. Funeral on April 21 in Kottayam.