Abstract
June 14, 1958 to March 03, 2023
Prof Mohan Nair in his illustrious career spanning over 35 years distinguished himself as a teacher, scientist, cardiologist, and electrophysiologist. He was a medical graduate from Maulana Azad Medical College (1975–1979) and did his postgraduation in general medicine from the same institute (1982–1984). He subsequently did his senior residency in cardiology from GB Pant Hospital (1985–1987) where he was awarded DM in cardiology.
He was amongst the first electrophysiologists in India. After completing his fellowship from University of Rouen in 1996, he initiated and established the Department of Electrophysiology in GB Pant Hospital. With unshakable determination and deep passion, he put in immense hard work in taking the department to lofty heights and achieved international recognition. In the years when electrophysiology was practically unknown in India, he travelled across the country, in conducting teaching programs and workshops. He was instrumental in establishing such programs in Sri Lanka and Pakistan, and was nominated as a lifetime professor by the University of Lahore. He was particularly interested in atrial flutter and fibrillation. He is credited with the first publication of series on flutter ablation in India. 1 His seminal work on identifying initiating triggers of rheumatic atrial fibrillation (AF) in 2000 showed his intellectual brilliance in doing contemporary international work with modest resources. 2 It was notable that about the same time, revolutionary concepts of pulmonary vein foci as triggers of AF were identified by Italian groups in nonvalvular AF.3, 4
Till his last days, his contribution to science was remarkable always showing the world newer approaches to mapping and ablation of arrhythmias.5, 6 His large list of original work published in high-impact journals and being in the editorial board of such journals is ample testimony to his skills as a researcher. He was internationally respected in electrophysiology community and was honored with the Augustine Castellano outstanding career achievement award by Monarch of Monaco in 2019. He put India on the world map in 2014, when New Delhi witnessed the first and to-date the only Asia Pacific Heart Rhythm Conference in India with him as the Organizing Chairman.
Dr Mohan Nair was a remarkable human being, ever willing to help younger cardiologists in managing their patients, guiding them in research, and helping them in realizing their dreams. He was honest in expressing his views fearlessly and never hesitated to take a stance in public to support the right. He was endowed with a sharp intellect which complemented his ever-smiling countenance, spontaneous wit, and humor. His sudden demise has left a large vacuum in the country’s electrophysiology community, understandably a larger and permanent one perceived by his family whom he loved so dearly.