Padma Shri awardee cardiologist G. Vijayaraghavan dies

Padma Shri awardee Dr. G. Vijayaraghavan died on 20 September 2026 at the age of 84 in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. He was a cardiologist, the founder and vice-chairman of KIMS Healthcare, and a recipient of the Padma Shri in 2009 for contributions to medical sciences.

Early Life and Education

Dr. G. Vijayaraghavan was born on 18 September 1942 in Perumpuzha in Kollam district. He completed his medical degree from Thiruvananthapuram Medical College in 1964.

Medical Career and Institutional Work

He led the Cardiology department at KIMS Healthcare for more than two decades. He also served as vice-chairperson of the institution and as president of the Society for Continuing Medical Education and Research, Kerala.

Contributions to Cardiology

In 1980, he established India’s first two-dimensional echocardiography laboratory at Government Medical College, Thiruvananthapuram. He conducted research on tropical endomyocardial fibrosis, a heart disease found in southern India.

Important Facts for Exams

• Padma Shri is one of India’s civilian honours and is announced by the Government of India.
• Two-dimensional echocardiography is an ultrasound-based imaging technique used to assess heart structure and function.
• Tropical endomyocardial fibrosis is a restrictive cardiomyopathy reported in tropical regions, including parts of southern India.
• Thiruvananthapuram Medical College is one of the major medical institutions in Kerala.

Honours and Final Rites

Dr. Vijayaraghavan received Lifetime Achievement Awards from Indian cardiology institutions. His mortal remains were scheduled for public viewing at Osler Hall, KIMS HEALTH, and cremation with State honours at Shanthikavadam on 22 September 2026.