IZINDABA
OBITUARY

Araj Hanooman, 29 August 1967 - 19 December 2019

It is with great sadness that we share the passing of Mr Araj Hanooman. His name translates into 'pledge' and is a representation of great strength, loyalty and compassion. He lived to the expectations of his name.

Araj was born in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa, and attended Raisethorpe High School. He completed his medical studies at the University of Natal, as it was called at the time, and his internship at the Northdale-Grey's Hospital network. During his internship, among his impressive feats, he saved the life of a man who had been stabbed in the heart. This story is often recounted to future doctors and will remain a source of legend.

It therefore came as no surprise that Araj qualified as a cardiothoracic surgeon after training at Wentworth Hospital, Durban. He distinguished himself as a highly skilled, hard-working and dedicated doctor. Araj was part of the team that completed the first heart transplant at St Augustine's Hospital in Durban.

Over the years, he enjoyed a thriving cardiothoracic surgical practice based at Entabeni Hospital, Durban. He was a very successful surgeon, who provided a new lease of life for many people, and was also much loved by patients and staff.

Araj enjoyed swimming and was a formidable defender on the soccer field, but he is most remembered for being an amazing person. His laughter was truly memorable and more than enough to dispel the darkest clouds in one's day. He had an uncompromising kindness and an infectious optimism, and therefore had many best friends.

He has left a massive vacuum for his patients, mother, family, friends and colleagues. We will miss him, we will honour him and we will hold him in our hearts.

Yuben Moodley

University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia yuben.moodley@uwa.edu.au