Obituary - Professor RJ Dash; 1941-2021

On behalf of the Indian Society for Pediatric and Adolescent Endocrinology, we pay our tributes and our deepest condolences on the demise of the legendary figure in endocrinology, Professor RJ Dash. Prof Dash left us on Saturday, August 21, 2021 at his hometown in Bhubaneshwar, Odisha.

He was born in Matia, a small village in the Cuttack district of Odisha. Despite his humble beginning and the innumerable hardships, he pursued his higher education at Ravenshaw College, Cuttack. His journey in medicine began at Srirama Chandra Bhanj (SCB) Medical College, Cuttack, following which he did his MD (Medicine) and DM (Endocrinology) from Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, incidentally becoming the first DM in Endocrinology in the country.

Prof. Dash served PGIMER as faculty and head of the Department of Endocrinology as well as the Dean Research, from 1969 to 2003. He received many national and international awards for his contribution in the development of various fields of endocrinology, including the prestigious Dr. B C Roy Award.

He was a founder member and former President of the Endocrine Society of India. He was a Visiting Professor at various universities and centers of excellence at endocrinology in 30 countries abroad and 10 institutions in India. He delivered 16 famed orations in professional societies in the country.

In his glorious years of service at PGIMER, he trained nearly 70 DM residents, who are currently holding prestigious positions at various institutes in India and abroad. Following his superannuation from PGIMER, he continued to remain academically active.

To say Prof. Dash was a larger-than-life figure would be an understatement. He will always be remembered as the doyen of endocrinology in India. His contribution to the start and development of the field of endocrinology was only surpassed by his incredible positive influence and zest for life.

The endocrinology community deeply mourns his passing as his was a life of service, love, compassion, and excellence. Our condolences to the Dash Family on the passing of Prof Dash. He is survived by his wife, Dr. Sumitra Misra, children, grandchildren, and several students who will carry forward his legacy.

Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved ones today and always. May his soul achieve Sadgati.