Karnataka's first endodontist, Dr N Rajeeva Shetty no more

Bengaluru: Dr. N. Rajeeva Shetty, a renowned endodontist, distinguished dental educationist, and former Director of Medical Education in Karnataka, passed away at his residence in Banashankari, Bengaluru, on the night of June 24. He was 93.

A pioneering figure in dentistry, Dr. Rajeeva Shetty was the first endodontist in Karnataka and the first dentist in the country to serve as the Director of Medical Education (DME). Over a distinguished career spanning several decades, he made invaluable contributions to dental education, research, and healthcare administration.

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Dr. Rajeeva Shetty served as the principal of Government Dental College and Research Institute, Bengaluru, where he played a pivotal role in strengthening academic standards and modernising academic excellence. His dedication to academic excellence and professional integrity earned him widespread respect among colleagues, students, and the medical fraternity.

In recognition of his outstanding service to dentistry and medical education, he received numerous prestigious honours, including the Karnataka Rajyotsava Award, the Doctor of Science (D.Sc.) degree from Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences (RGUHS), and the highest honour conferred by the Indian Endodontic Society. He has also been presented with the certificate of merit by the "Pierre Fauchard Academy", United States of America.

Medical Dialogues had previously reported that Dr. N. Rajeeva Shetty has been honoured with the IES Medal of Honour for 2025 by the Indian Endodontic Society (IES) in recognition of his pioneering contributions to the field of endodontics in India. The IES Medal is the highest award presented by the Indian Endodontic Society.

Beyond his administrative and academic achievements, Dr. Shetty was known for his unwavering dedication to advancing dental sciences in India and inspiring countless students and practitioners through his exemplary leadership.

His demise has been mourned by members of the medical and academic community across the country. The funeral will be held at 12 noon at Banashankari crematorium in Bengaluru on June 27, reports The Hindu.

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