Doctors, healthcare professionals, patrons, and admirers of Saroj Gupta Cancer Centre & Research Institute gathered on Thursday to observe the 16th death anniversary of renowned oncologist Dr. Saroj Gupta and celebrate the institute’s 53 years of service to humanity.
The day began with a blood donation camp and floral tributes at Dr. Saroj Gupta’s statue inside the institute campus, remembering the visionary doctor whose efforts transformed cancer care in Eastern India.
Later in the evening, the commemorative biography “A Visionary: The Life and Legacy of Dr. Saroj Gupta” was unveiled at Press Club Kolkata in the presence of filmmaker, actor, and Sheriff of Kolkata Goutam Ghose, who attended the programme as Chief Guest.
Speaking at the event, Goutam Ghose reflected on Dr. Gupta’s lifelong dedication towards humanity and his mission to make cancer treatment accessible for ordinary people, especially those from economically weaker backgrounds.
The biography traces Dr. Gupta’s remarkable journey from a young doctor with a social mission to one of India’s most respected names in oncology. It also revisits the challenges behind building an institution where patients could receive treatment with dignity, compassion, and hope.
Born on December 5, 1929, Dr. Saroj Gupta founded the Cancer Centre Welfare Home & Research Institute — now known as Saroj Gupta Cancer Centre & Research Institute — as Eastern India’s first non-governmental, not-for-profit cancer hospital. At a time when specialised cancer treatment remained beyond the reach of many families, Dr. Gupta envisioned an institution dedicated to humane and affordable healthcare.
What began on donated marshy land eventually grew into one of India’s leading comprehensive cancer centres. Today, SGCCRI houses advanced radiation oncology facilities, PET-CT imaging, specialised cancer surgery units, medical oncology services, intensive care support, and Bone Marrow Transplant facilities.
The institute is also home to a uniquely designed paediatric cancer centre featuring artificial hills, water bodies, a toy train, and an auditorium aimed at creating a healing environment for children undergoing treatment.
Alongside affordable treatment programmes, SGCCRI has expanded its role in cancer research through collaborations with reputed national and international institutions. Outreach initiatives continue to spread cancer awareness and preventive healthcare in underserved regions.
Speaking during the programme, Anjan Gupta,Hony Secretary of SGCCRI, reflected on the values that shaped his father’s life.
“My father never viewed medicine merely as a profession. For him, every patient represented a story, a family, and a struggle. He believed that no one should be denied treatment because of financial hardship. This book is our humble effort to preserve his ideals and inspire future generations.”
Dr. Arnab Gupta, Medical Director and Onco Surgeon at SGCCRI, said Dr. Saroj Gupta’s philosophy continues to guide the institution even today.
“He taught us that compassion is as important as clinical excellence. Long before patient-centric care became a recognised medical approach, he practised it every single day. His legacy continues to inspire generations of doctors, nurses, and healthcare workers associated with SGCCRI.”
Susmita Roy, daughter of Dr. Saroj Gupta, shared memories of her father as a deeply caring person despite his demanding professional life. She also spoke about his love for music, literature, cinema, and the arts.
The commemorative volume has been dedicated to Ila Gupta in recognition of her silent sacrifices and support in helping build the institution alongside Dr. Saroj Gupta.
The programme was attended by doctors, healthcare professionals, social workers, and members of the cultural fraternity, many describing Dr. Saroj Gupta as not only a pioneering oncologist, but also a compassionate human being whose ideals continue to inspire generations.
