The Surgeon who became a legacy…

Mysuru: The Mysore Obstetrics and Gynaecological Society (MOGS) came together for its Continuing Medical Education (CME) programme dedicated to the memory of Prof. Dr. S.N. Kaulgud, an extraordinary teacher, brilliant surgeon and compassionate human being whose influence continues to live through generations of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists.

More than an academic programme, the CME was a celebration of a legacy — of a man whose students remember not merely what he taught them about medicine and surgery, but the values he instilled in them as doctors and as human beings.

Born on Aug. 10, 1932, in Athani, Belagavi and educated in Pune, Prof. Dr. Kaulgud built a distinguished career defined by knowledge, innovation, courage and an extraordinary passion for teaching. His students remembered him as a “library of knowledge” and a surgeon with such mastery that they affectionately described his hands as possessing a “magic wand.”  

His contribution went far beyond the operating theatre. Prof. Dr. Kaulgud pioneered a Laparoscopic Sterilisation Training Centre at Cheluvamba Hospital, finding ingenious ways to teach with inexpensive, locally available materials such as cardboard boxes and coloured rubber bands. Renowned for his mastery of vaginal hysterectomy, he believed that knowledge and skill gained their true value only when they were passed on.

According to the tribute presented by MOGS, he became the first person from the medical field to be honoured with the Kannada Rajyotsava Award by the Government of Karnataka.

Donated blood over 30 times

His compassion extended beyond his professional responsibilities — he donated blood more than 30 times and was remembered for his courage in confronting even the most challenging clinical situations.  

Prof. Dr. Kaulgud also played a defining role in story of MOGS itself. In a gesture that reflected his respect for senior colleagues and his characteristic humility, he offered the position of Founder-President of MOGS to senior member Dr. Stephen, choosing instead to serve as its Founder-Secretary. His exceptional organisational abilities were also evident when he organised AICOG 1988 in Mysore.  

Years later, the desire to ensure that his legacy remained a living one inspired Dr. Roopa Prakash and Dr. Ambrish Bhandiwad to conceptualise a CME to be held every August in his memory under the banner of MOGS. It was indeed a fitting tribute to a man who devoted so much of his life to teaching: to remember a teacher by continuing to learn.

This year’s CME was organised by Dr. A. Sonia Mandappa, President, MOGS and Dr. Sindhu Lakshmi Durgesh, Secretary, MOGS.

The CME was attended by Dr. Hiremath, Chief Patron, KSOGA; Dr. Rajashree Paladi, President, KSOGA; Dr. Jayaprakash Patil and distinguished faculty members and speakers, whose participation enriched the scientific and academic sessions.

Prof. Dr. S.N. Kaulgud’s wife and son were present as chief guests at the inaugural session.

Through this Annual CME, Mysore Obstetrics and Gynaecological Society ensures that Dr. Kaulgud’s values and purpose to which he dedicated his life continue to move forward.