Prof. B. N. Sinha
(1910-2000)
Dr. B. N. Sinha was born on 26th July 1910 at Chaubattia, District Almora, Uttar Pradesh. He did his MBBS from King George's Medical College, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. In 1933, after a brief period as a House Surgeon, proceeded to England for his postgraduation. On his return to India, he joined the Department of Surgery as a Lecturer at the King George's Medical College itself.
He was an active member of the Association of Surgeons of India and took part in all the activities of the association. Dr. Sinha's first love was always Orthopedics. He was of the opinion that Orthopedic surgery is a vast subject and requires special attention. At that time, Orthopedic Surgery was an integral part of the General Surgery. He believed that Orthopedic units should be independent form General Surgery and suggested the same to the Association of Surgeons of India. Other members of the Association vehemently opposed him. However, he persevered and eventually succeeded in creating the first independent Orthopaedic Surgery Department in India at King George's Medical College in the year 1951. It is because of his enormous contribution to the field that he is fondly known as the “Father of Indian Orthopaedics.” He was also the founder President of “Indian Orthopedic Association.” He also served as President of “Association of Surgeons of India,” “Indian Society for the Rehabilitation of the Handicapped,” “Medical Council of India,” “National Academy of Medical Sciences,” and “Indian Academy of Medical Teachers.”
Dr. Sinha lived a very disciplined life and expected the same from his colleagues and subordinates. During his illustrious career in Orthopedics spanning more than 50 years, he earned name and fame as a pioneer in the field of rehabilitation of physically challenged patients. He received numerous awards and citations. He was awarded the Padmashree in the year 1970. He was appointed Honorary Surgeon to the President of India in 1969. He was also conferred the B C Roy National Award in the “Eminent Medical Man” category. He was the recipient of the Medal Bonemerenti from Pious Pope VI for services to the Crippled. He was given the rank of Honorary Brigadier of the Indian Army in the year 1973.
Dr. B. N. Sinha was a man of many qualities. He was an accomplished orator. He was a teacher par excellence, and his students remember his classes fondly. His administrative skills were legendary. His surgical skills were unparalleled. It is no wonder that the people who knew him well vouch that there can never be another person with the charisma of Dr. B. N. Sinha.
Dr. Sinha had five children; two sons and three daughters. One of the sons followed in his footsteps and became an Orthopedic Surgeon but, unfortunately, passed away at a very young age.
It is indeed a difficult task to summarize the life of such a great man in just a few words. Suffice to say that with the demise of Dr. B. N. Sinha on January 18, 2000, the world lost not only an excellent surgeon but also a multifaceted, talented human being.
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Conflicts of interest
There are no conflicts of interest.