Dr. Mahapatra was widely known for leading the historic 2017 surgery to separate Odisha’s craniopagus conjoined twins, Jaga and Balia, at AIIMS, New Delhi
Eminent neurosurgeon Dr. Ashok Mahapatra passes away: Eminent neurosurgeon and Padma Shri awardee Prof. (Dr.) Ashok Kumar Mahapatra passed away at the age of 74. He breathed his last while undergoing treatment at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi.
He was first admitted to SUM Hospital in Bhubaneswar following complaints of severe head pain.However, as his health condition deteriorated, he was transferred to New Delhi with a team of specialist doctors for further medical treatment underlying neurological condition.Dr. Mahapatra had been undergoing treatment at AIIMS, New Delhi, since October 2, 2026.
According to information, Mahapatra’s mortal remains will be brought to Bhubaneswar on Tuesday by flight. The Odisha government will give him a Guard of Honour, after which the last rites will be performed in Puri.
Dr. Mahapatra was widely known for leading the historic 2017 surgery to separate Odisha’s craniopagus conjoined twins, Jaga and Balia, at AIIMS, New Delhi. He served as the Vice-Chancellor of Siksha ‘O’ Anusandhan University and was its Principal Adviser at the time of his demise.
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During his 34-year association with the institution, he held several key positions, including Professor, Head of Department and Dean of Research. He had also served as the Director of AIIMS New Delhi and AIIMS Bhubaneswar.
For his exceptional contributions to medical science, President Droupadi Murmu honoured Dr. Mahapatra with the Padma Shri award in 2025.
