Bhubaneswar, April 18: World Liver Day was observed with enthusiasm at Utkal Hospital in Niladri Vihar, Bhubaneswar, with a series of awareness initiatives highlighting the importance of liver health and organ donation.
To mark the occasion, the hospital organised a mini marathon early in the morning, drawing participation from around 300 people, including men and women from different age groups. The initiative aimed to promote this year’s theme, “Solid Habits, Strong Liver,” encouraging healthier lifestyles to prevent liver-related diseases.
The event was flagged off by Chief Guest Akshaya Kumar Sahu, Resident Editor of Asian Age and Deccan Chronicle, along with Guest of Honour Dr. Bibhuti Bhushan Nayak, Joint Director of the State Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation (SOTTO). Both dignitaries emphasised the need for increased awareness around liver health and organ donation.
Senior officials and medical experts from Utkal Hospital, including CEO B.K. Subodh Singh, Dr. Salil Kumar Parida, Dr. Ananta Kumar Agasti, Dr. Bijay Mishra, and Dr. Malay Kumar Dhal, were present at the event. They addressed participants, stressing preventive healthcare and timely medical intervention.
In the marathon, Shubham Behera (20) from Nayagarh secured first place, followed by Roshan Majhi (19) from Kalahandi in second position, and Dolamani Chirgun (18) in third. The winners were felicitated with medals by the Chief Guest.
In a significant healthcare achievement, Utkal Hospital recently performed three successful cadaveric liver transplants in March 2026 — a first-of-its-kind milestone for Odisha. The accomplishment underscores the growing awareness and acceptance of organ donation in the state.
The transplants were led by renowned liver transplant surgeon Dr. Salil Kumar Parida, supported by a multidisciplinary team including Dr. Malay Kumar Dhal (Gastro Surgery), transplant anaesthetists Dr. Mayur and Dr. Jasmin, and critical care specialists Dr. Sushant Kumar Nayak and Dr. Bhakti. Hospital authorities credited the team’s expertise, advanced medical infrastructure, and coordinated efforts for the success of these complex procedures.
The hospital also expressed deep gratitude to the donor families, whose decision to donate organs in times of personal loss helped save multiple lives. It acknowledged the crucial role of SOTTO and the Odisha government in facilitating smooth coordination for the transplants.
With this achievement, Utkal Hospital has strengthened its position as a leading centre for liver transplant services in Odisha. The hospital reiterated its commitment to raising awareness about organ donation and delivering advanced healthcare solutions.
Health experts at the event emphasised that organ donation remains one of the noblest acts, with the potential to save multiple lives, urging people to come forward and support the cause.
