Pune: Dr. Anand Neelkanth Pandit, a towering figure in pediatric medicine, passed away on September 20 at the age of 82, following a heart attack.
Dr. Pandit is survived by his wife, Dr. Pournima Pandit, two daughters, Aarti Pandit-Deval and Preeti, and a son, Dr. Chetan.
Dr. Pandit's niece, actress Supriya Pilgaonkar, expressed pride in his achievements, particularly highlighting his research on Hepatitis-B.
A respected name in Pune's medical community, Dr. Pandit dedicated over five decades to the field of pediatrics, working tirelessly to improve the diagnosis and treatment of childhood diseases, particularly in premature and high-risk newborns.
His contributions have left an indelible mark on healthcare, both locally and internationally.
Dr. Pandit’s association with KEM Hospital, Pune, was pivotal. In 1967, he played an instrumental role in establishing the pediatrics department, significantly enhancing the hospital’s reputation.
A decade later, in 1977, he spearheaded the creation of the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), which provided life-saving care for critically ill newborns.
His vision extended beyond traditional medicine, leading to the formation of the TDH Rehabilitation and Morris Child Development Center in 1979.
This center specialized in treating children with developmental and behavioral disorders, offering comprehensive diagnostic and therapeutic care.
Over the course of his illustrious career, Dr. Pandit mentored more than 350 pediatricians, many of whom have gone on to make significant contributions in their fields. His deep commitment to education, research, and patient care earned him a revered place in the medical community.
Born on March 23, 1942, in Baroda (Vadodara), Dr. Pandit’s early education was influenced by his father’s role as a senior health officer.
After completing his schooling at Rosary School in Baroda, the family moved to Pune, where Dr. Pandit pursued higher education at Garware School and later Fergusson College.
He obtained his MBBS from BJ Medical College, graduating with top honors. Dr. Pandit completed his MD in Pediatrics in Mumbai before returning to Pune, where he began a lifelong association with KEM Hospital.
Beyond medicine, Dr. Pandit had a deep passion for sports, particularly tennis and cricket, and was an avid reader.
His calm demeanor and readiness to help others left a lasting impact on his peers and patients alike. His sister, Asha Ugale, recalled him as a "master in all fields," admired for his kindness and willingness to serve others.