Hall of Fame
The TASO Hall of Fame is IN MEMORIAM of Doyens of Cancer
Surgery from Tamil Nadu
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Dr. S.Krishnamurthi
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Dr. V. Shanta
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Dr. Snehalatha
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Dr. T.G.Gunasagaran
Dr S Krishnamurthy was a pioneering figure in Oncology in India ,known for his significant
contributions to cancer care and research . Born on 12 th September , 1919 in an illustrious family as the
son of Dr Muthulakshmi Reddy , the first woman medical graduate in India , he pursued his MBBS in
1942 and MS in Surgery in 1946 . His interest in Oncology made him specialize in the subject through
fellowships in US and UK before returning to India to advance cancer treatment and research .
Dr Krishnamurthy played a crucial role in the development of the Adyar Cancer Institute in
Chennai which was started by his mother . Leaving his job from the Government Medical Service , he
joined the Institute as a full time faculty . He took over as The Director in 1959 , significantly expanding
the Institute’s capacity and scope . Under his leadership the institute grew from a small unit to a
comprehensive cancer care centre with the present capacity of more than 700 beds . His tireless efforts
attracted patients from far and wide . The institute caters to patients not only from the entire south
India , but as far away as the North Eastern states .
Apart from cancer treatment , his aptitude for teaching was unparalleled . His vision of
starting a post graduate super speciality course in Surgical and Medical Oncology for the first time in the
country in 1984 was a milestone in the emergence of Oncology as a speciality in the country . He also
made sure that the institute became a teaching centre in various other specialities in oncology like
radiation oncology , nuclear medicine , nursing ,etc . His efforts turned the institute to a much greater
“ Muthulakshmi Institute of Oncological Sciences “ . The alumni of the Institute have spread throughout
India , and contribute to the care of cancer patients and teaching in Oncology . Besides teaching , his
interest in research resulted from various double blind clinical trials in oral cancer in early years to the
advanced molecular researches at present .
His contributions were recognized with various awards including Padma Bhushan .He served on various National and International committees , contributing to cancer control policies and
research . Dr Krishnamurthy passed away on July 3 , 2010 , leaving behind a rich legacy of dedication to
the management of cancer in India .
Prof. Snehalata Manoharan in her mission made a great difference in the lives of many people. Her presence was reassuring for her friends, work colleagues and family. She was admired for her Authenticity, Humility, Generosity, Respect for self and others& Integrity.
She continually expressed her love and charity to all needy patients. A source of inspiration, A steadfast guide ,A guiding light with Empowering and Encouraging nature who left a lasting impact by her patience and perseverance started the first Surgical oncology course in Govt . Colleges .
I recall the day I met her.. she saw a potential in me that I didn’t even know existed and believed in me when I doubted myself . She spread her wings in the palliative care of cancer patients at the inception of Jeevodhaya Hospice.
She would proudly rest seeing the younger generation of surgical oncologist sprout, spread and serve .
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