Dr. V Shanta, Founder & Chairperson of Adyar Cancer Institute, Dies at 93

By: WE STAFF | Tuesday, 19 January 2021

Senior Oncologist, Chairperson and Founder of Adya Cancer Institute in Chennai, Dr. V Shanta left for the heavenly abode on Tuesday morning. She was 93.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi condoled her death and tweeted, “Dr V Shanta will be remembered for her outstanding efforts to ensure top quality cancer care. The Cancer Institute at Adyar, Chennai is at the forefront of serving the poor and downtrodden. I recall my visit to the institute in 2018. Saddened by Dr V Shanta’s demise. Om Shanti”.

Dr. Shanta played a key role in the development of the Cancer Institute along with Dr. Krishnamurthi. She was the Chairman and Executive Chairman of the Cancer Institute (WIA) Chennai.

She was admitted to a private hospital in the city last night after she complained of chest pain. Her body has been moved to the old Cancer Institute premises.

Dr. Shanta was awarded the Padma Srhi in 1986, and Padma Bhushan in 2006. She was also awarded Padma Vibhushan and the Ramon Magsaysay awards. She was highly revered for her efforts towards making quality and affordable cancer treatment accessible to all patients.

“Her entire medical life over 50 years has been dedicated to the mission of organizing care of Cancer patients, the study of the disease, its prevention and control, the generation of specialists and scientists in different aspects of Oncologic Sciences,” the Adyar Cancer Institute said.