Pune: Eminent interventional cardiologist Dr Shirish Hiremath passed away at his Sopanbaug residence on Thursday night at the age of 75 after a brief illness, leaving a void in the Indian medical fraternity, especially cardiology.Dr Hiremath was a pioneer of interventional cardiology. He dedicated over four decades to the advancement of cardiac care through clinical excellence, innovation, teaching and mentorship.The distinguished doctor performed over 40,000 angioplasties and one lakh angiographies, making him one of the most experienced interventional cardiologists in the country. He began his cardiology practice in 1982.Dr Hiremath served as the director of the cardiac catheterisation laboratory at Ruby Hall Clinic, where he played a central role in developing advanced cardiac services. As the president of Cardiological Society of India and the chairperson of National Intervention Council, he helped shape standards, education and the future of interventional cardiology in India.In a statement issued by Ruby Hall Clinic, Dr Hiremath’s contributions were recognised as significant and his legacy as extending beyond titles and numbers. He mentored generations of cardiologists, inspired colleagues with his commitment to patient welfare and helped transform cardiac treatment for countless families, it stated.Beyond professional achievements, Dr Hiremath would be remembered for his kindness, compassion and caring nature. Dr Purvez K Grant, chief cardiologist, chairperson and managing trustee, Ruby Hall Clinic, said, “Ruby Hall Clinic deeply mourns the death of Dr Hiremath, a distinguished cardiologist and one of the most respected members of our medical fraternity. His immense contribution in cardiology over several decades, along with his dedication to patient care, has left an indelible mark on our institution and the medical community. Beyond his professional accomplishments, he was known for his kindness, compassion and caring nature, and touched countless lives along the way.”He said Dr Hiremath had been battling cancer for the past few years. “His death is an irreparable loss to Ruby Hall Clinic and the entire medical fraternity. He will be remembered not only for his extraordinary professional legacy but also for the warmth and humanity he brought to everyone around him,” Dr Grant said.
