From a distinguished medical career to community leadership at Cuttack Club, Dr. Devanand Mohapatra believes that true success lies not merely in professional achievements, but in the lives one touches along the way.
In a city where heritage, culture and community continue to shape collective identity, certain individuals stand out for their ability to connect professional excellence with a deeper sense of social responsibility. Professor Dr. Devanand Mohapatra, a gastroenterologist and hepatologist who serves as Dean and Principal of Hi-Tech Medical College, is one such personality. As the Honorary Secretary of Cuttack Club, he brings to the institution a philosophy rooted in service, inclusivity and the belief that meaningful leadership begins with understanding people.
With nearly three decades of experience in the medical profession and a family legacy spanning four generations of doctors, Dr. Mohapatra’s approach to life has been shaped by compassion and a commitment to serving society. His medical training, which includes studies at SV Medical College, Burla Medical College, Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute and further training in England, has complemented a career dedicated to patient care and medical education.
For him, medicine extends beyond prescriptions and investigations. He believes that listening patiently, understanding a person’s emotions and offering reassurance are integral to healing. In his view, empathy can make a profound difference to patients navigating difficult moments. His guiding principle remains simple: professional success and financial rewards should follow good work, rather than become the primary purpose of it.
This philosophy finds another expression in his association with Cuttack Club, where he has been a member for 27 years. Having previously served as Joint Secretary and an Executive Committee member, he now holds the honorary secretaryship for the fourth time. His vision is to nurture a space that moves beyond conventional ideas of a members’ club and becomes a welcoming, family-oriented institution.
Under his leadership philosophy, cultural celebrations, sporting activities and opportunities for social interaction are essential to the club’s identity. From swimming, badminton and squash to cultural programmes celebrating Odia traditions, the emphasis is on creating experiences that bring generations together. He is particularly keen to encourage women and girls to participate more actively, ensuring that the club remains inclusive and comfortable for every member of the family.
Yet, his concerns extend beyond institutional administration. Observing the pressures faced by younger generations, Dr. Mohapatra highlights the importance of physical health, balanced nutrition, regular exercise and emotional well-being. He believes that growing social isolation makes it increasingly important for people to maintain friendships, nurture family relationships and build supportive communities.
His own life reflects this balance of professional commitment and social engagement. Alongside his medical responsibilities, he has been associated with the Indian Medical Association and Rotary, contributing to community-oriented initiatives and encouraging younger colleagues to serve society.
Ultimately, Dr. Mohapatra’s vision is defined by a simple but powerful belief: people should remain connected, accessible and willing to help one another. Whether in a hospital, a classroom or the corridors of Cuttack Club, he sees service as a responsibility that extends beyond titles.
For a city proud of its cultural roots, his message carries enduring relevance: institutions thrive when people feel included, communities grow when compassion guides action, and the most meaningful legacy is the difference one makes in the lives of others.
Penned by Prisita Das
