Padma Vibhushan Dr. Kantilal Hastimal Sancheti is a pioneering Indian orthopaedic surgeon, visionary healthcare leader, educator and humanitarian who played a transformative role in the development of orthopaedics and rehabilitation in India. In 1965, he started his orthopaedic practice in Pune and established the city’s first orthopaedic hospital with 10 beds, laying the foundation for what would grow into the Sancheti Institute for Orthopaedics & Rehabilitation. He dedicated his life to advancing orthopaedic care, rehabilitation, medical education and social service, particularly through free polio and orthopaedic camps for underprivileged children in rural Maharashtra. He pioneered indigenous orthopaedic technology, including the development of the Indus Knee Joint and other affordable implants and instruments, helping make advanced joint replacement treatment more accessible to Indian patients. He also contributed significantly to medical education, established a College of Physiotherapy and Hospital Management courses, and trained and groomed more than 120 orthopaedic surgeons. In recognition of his outstanding contributions, he was honoured with the Padma Shri in 1991, Padma Bhushan in 2003, Padma Vibhushan in 2012, and the Dr. B. C. Roy Award in 2017. His enduring legacy lies in combining clinical excellence, innovation, education and compassionate service to society.