Dr. Hamsaraj Shetty’s life is a remarkable journey of excellence, humility, and enduring service. In the 2024 New Year Honours List, he was awarded the Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE), formally conferred in May 2024, in recognition of his exceptional contribution to stroke care in Wales. This honour reflects decades of clinical leadership and transformative impact within the NHS.

Born in Mulki, Karnataka, Dr. Shetty is the son of the late Gundal Mahabala Shetty and Mrs. Rathna Shetty of Kodethoor Magandadi. Raised in a family that revered education and discipline, he inherited values that would shape a life dedicated to knowledge and service.

His early schooling at UBMC School, Karnad, and Government High School, Mulki, followed by pre-university studies at Vijaya College, Mulki, laid the foundation for a life shaped by discipline and purpose. 

He graduated from Mysore Medical College. His pursuit of excellence took him across continents, eventually leading him to the University Hospital of Wales, where from 1995 onwards, he dedicated nearly three decades to transforming stroke medicine in Wales.

In 1998, when stroke mortality rates in Cardiff and Vale were approximately 28%, Dr. Shetty began pioneering structured stroke pathways and multidisciplinary approaches. The establishment of a dedicated Acute Stroke Unit in 2007 marked a turning point. Through innovation, teamwork, and the adoption of advanced clot-busting and endovascular treatments, the 30-day mortality rate reduced dramatically to around 11% in later years. 

Each percentage reduction represents lives saved and families preserved.

His leadership extended beyond clinical practice. In 1998, he founded the Welsh Association of Stroke Physicians. In 2007, he became the first non-European President in the 137-year history of the Cardiff Medical Society. He served on the Welsh Government’s Stroke Implementation Group until 2014 and as Regional Advisor for Stroke Medicine until 2015.

His distinguished recognitions include:

Life After Stroke Award (2016)

Welsh Stroke Excellence Award (2018)

Fellowship of the Learned Society of Wales (2022)

MBE (2024)

Adding to this remarkable list, on 1 April 2025, in New Delhi, India, the Apollo Hospitals Educational and Research Foundation conferred upon him the Honorary Adjunct Title of International Professor, in recognition of his significant contribution to research and academics. This prestigious academic honour from the Apollo Hospitals reflects his global standing as a clinician-scholar and educator, further strengthening the bridge between international medical communities.

Even after briefly retiring in 2015, he returned within three months, guided by the belief that experience must continue to serve society. His dedication remains unwavering even in his seventies.

Family remains central to his journey. He is married to Mrs. Latha Shetty, daughter of Mr. Kajane Narayan and Mrs. Sarojini Shetty of Pune. They are blessed with two children — Mrs. Samyukta Shetty, married to Mr. Nathan Grimwood, and Mr. Samit Shetty.

Three of his six siblings — Dr. Geethanjali Shetty, an Obstetrician and Gynaecologist; Dr. Padmini Shetty, a retired General Practitioner in Mumbai; and Dr. Vishwaraj Shetty, a General Practitioner in Abergele, North Wales — reflect the family’s deep and enduring commitment to the medical profession. Together, they embody a legacy of healing, service, and dedication to community well-being.

For the younger generation of Bunts across the globe, Dr. Shetty’s life carries a powerful message. Strong roots can create global impact. Education builds enduring foundations. Leadership must be guided by humility. Success is earned through perseverance.

His inspiring words to the youth resonate deeply:

“Don’t let others set goals for you. Set your own goals. Pursue your dreams. Success will only come with hard work and perseverance.”

From Mulki to Wales, from student to International Professor and nationally honoured physician, Dr. Hamsaraj Shetty’s journey exemplifies the very best of Bunts values — resilience, excellence, and service to humanity.

His life is not merely a record of achievements, but a legacy of inspiration for generations to come.

– by Abhinandana Shetty