Dr. Mathew Samuel Kalarickal, the eminent cardiologist widely regarded as the “Father of Angioplasty” in India, passed away on Friday at Apollo Hospital, Chennai, after a brief illness. He was 77.
A Medical Pioneer Who Transformed Cardiac Care
Dr. Kalarickal made history in 1986 when he performed India’s first angioplasty, revolutionizing cardiac treatment in the country. His pioneering efforts did not stop at India’s borders; he played a crucial role in establishing angioplasty services across several Asia-Pacific countries, including Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, the UAE, Abu Dhabi, Muscat, Indonesia, Thailand, and Malaysia.
Early Life and Medical Journey
Born in Kerala on January 6, 1948, Dr. Kalarickal graduated from Kottayam Medical College before pursuing his post-graduation and specialization in cardiology in Chennai. He later moved to the United States, where he trained under Dr. Andreas Gruentzig, the world-renowned pioneer of interventional cardiology.
Inspired by the advancements he witnessed abroad, Dr. Kalarickal returned to India in 1985. At the time, India lagged nearly a decade behind the West in angioplasty. Driven by a sense of duty, he took it upon himself to introduce this lifesaving technology to Indian healthcare.
“In 1986, we treated just 18 patients,” he recalled in a 1997 interview with Frontline. “By 1987, that number had already grown to 150.” He described it as a moral obligation to bring this advanced treatment to Indian patients, who until then had only bypass surgery or medication as options. “The satisfaction I feel from establishing angioplasty in India is beyond what money can buy,” he said.
A Lifelong Teacher and Mentor
As reported by thehindu, beyond his clinical practice, Dr. Kalarickal remained committed to teaching and training the next generation of cardiologists. He travelled extensively across India and the Asia-Pacific region, conducting workshops and setting up new interventional cardiology programs.
Dr. Sai Satish, Senior Interventional Cardiologist at Apollo Hospitals, Chennai, and a longtime colleague and student, paid a heartfelt tribute:
“There will never be another Dr. Mathew Samuel Kalarickal in my life. He shaped me in ways few ever could, and I will miss him dearly every time I step into a cath lab.”
Recognitions and Leadership
Over his illustrious career, Dr. Kalarickal received numerous accolades. These include:
- Padma Shri in 2000
- Dr. B.C. Roy Award in 1996
- Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa) by Tamil Nadu Dr. M.G.R. Medical University in 2003
He also held several prestigious positions, including President of the Asian-Pacific Society of Interventional Cardiology from 1995 to 1997.
Fond Remembrances from Peers and Patients
C.S. Lodha, a Mumbai-based advocate and long-time friend, described him as irreplaceable:
“He was a pioneer, unmatched in India or even Southeast Asia. He treated many VIPs and was known by everyone who mattered. More than a doctor, he was a dear friend and a devoted family man.”
Final Journey
Dr. Kalarickal is survived by his wife Bina Mathew, daughter Anna Mathew, and son Sam Mathew. His funeral will take place on April 21 at St. Peter’s Mar Thoma Church, Kottayam, Kerala. A memorial service will follow on April 26 at Chetpet Mar Thoma Syrian Christian Church, Chennai.