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Transforming Lives: 30 Years of Free Cleft Palate Surgery

Updated on: 04 September,2024 02:53 PM IST  |  Mumbai
Buzz | sumit.zarchobe@mid-day.com

Dr. Kalda's journey began with a profound realization during his medical training, where he witnessed the challenges faced by individuals with cleft deformities

Transforming Lives: 30 Years of Free Cleft Palate Surgery

Dr. Sunil Kalda

For over three decades, Dr. Sunil Kalda from Raipur has been a pillar of hope, dedicating his life to providing free surgeries for children and adults suffering from cleft palate deformities. His unwavering commitment has not only transformed smiles but also changed lives across communities in Chhattisgarh.


Dr. Kalda spearheads various Chhattisgarh Government initiatives, including "Operation Muskan," a campaign launched in 2010–11 to eradicate cleft conditions within the state. Since 2000, he has also served as a director with Smile Train, a non-profit organization that provides free cleft lip and palate surgery and related care to children in need around the world.


A cleft lip is a congenital condition marked by a gap or split in the upper lip, while a cleft palate involves a similar opening in the roof of the mouth. Children born with cleft lips often face physical challenges, social stigma, and limited access to life-changing medical care. These conditions not only affect a child's appearance but can also lead to difficulties with feeding, speech development, and social integration. Amidst these hardships, organizations like Smile Train and surgeons like Dr. Kalda are beacons of hope, empowering people to lead fulfilling lives. Da ho

Dr. Kalda's journey began with a profound realization during his medical training, where he witnessed the challenges faced by individuals with cleft deformities. Driven by compassion, he embarked on a mission to offer free surgical treatments to those in need.

Over the years, Dr. Kalda has become a symbol of selflessness and dedication within the medical community. Despite facing financial and logistical challenges, his resolve to bring smiles to countless faces has remained steadfast.

Dr. Kalda's impact extends far beyond the operating room. His work not only restores normalcy to individuals' lives but also enables them to pursue their dreams without the burden of physical insecurities. His surgeries have improved speech and social interactions and opened doors to a brighter future for his patients.

Dr. Kalda is a veteran surgeon at the Kalda Burn & Plastic Surgery Centre in Raipur. He has performed over 175,000 surgeries, including 70,000 free operations, with 27,000 of those dedicated to children with cleft lip and palate. His dedication earned him recognition in the “Golden Book of World Records” for performing the highest number of free cleft lip and palate operations globally.

Beyond his surgical prowess, Dr. Kalda embodies the essence of humanitarianism, providing comprehensive care and creating a nurturing environment for his patients and their families. His genuine empathy and kindness creates a safe and nurturing environment for patients and their families.

Celebrating three decades of service, Dr. Kalda remains as committed as ever, breaking down barriers and advocating for greater access to quality healthcare. His work transcends borders, inspiring medical professionals and community members alike and exemplifying the profound impact one individual can make.

In a world often marked by division and disparity, Dr. Sunil Kalda stands as a beacon of hope and unity. His legacy of compassionate care and generosity illuminates the path toward a more inclusive and compassionate future.

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