The Directors of MRFDF are deeply saddened to announce and place on record the passing of our senior-most member, Professor Sivapatham Vittal, on 26th November 2024.

Professor Vittal was born in Madras on 30th August 1941 and graduated from Madras Medical College, where he also completed his post-graduation. Specializing in Surgical endocrinology, he founded the Department of Surgical Endocrinology at Madras Medical College in 1987 and served as its head for many years. Today, he is rightfully considered the father of Surgical Endocrinology in India.

A Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh, Professor Vittal served as its surgical tutor for many years, was the Chairman of Indian Chapter of The Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh, and an examiner for the FRCS and MRCS exams. He was also the past president of the Association of Surgeons of India, the Indian Chapter of the International College of Surgeons, and a member of the British Association of Endocrine Surgeons. He published numerous articles and served on the advisory boards of the British Journal of Surgery and both the International and Indian Journals of Surgery. Among his many accolades were the Dr. B. C. Roy Award in 1995 and the prestigious Padma Shri award, conferred by the Government of India in 2011.

Soon after our foundation was regis

tered, Dr. Badrinath met Professor Vittal at his hospital and invited him to support our charitable activities by becoming a member of our Foundation. Without hesitation, he agreed and further encouraged his children, both endocrine surgeons, and a colleague to join as members.

Beyond his professional achievements, Professor Vittal was a paragon of kindness, generosity, and unwavering support for his colleagues. He was a mentor, guide, and friend to many, always ready to lend a listening ear and a helping hand. He remained actively involved with students from Madras Medical College, mentoring them and explaining the immense benefits of learning from senior doctors.

Professor Vittal also served as a member of the Board of Trustees of Ethiraj College for Women, Chennai.

As we mourn his loss, we also celebrate his life and legacy. His impact on our organization and the lives of many will never be forgotten. We extend our deepest condolences to Professor Vittal’s family and loved ones during this difficult time.

In honour of Professor Vittal, we will continue to uphold the values and principles he championed, ensuring that his spirit lives on in the work we do.

Rest in peace, Professor Sivapatham Vittal. Your legacy will forever be remembered and cherished.

He is survived by his wife, and his children, a son and two daughters.

• This topic was modified 3 weeks, 4 days ago by Kannivelu Badrinath.