TODAY -
Shija Hospitals observes World Smile Day
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, October 03 2025:
Shija Hospitals & Research Institute, in collaboration with Smile Train, observed World Smile Day at the Shija auditorium today, with a programme featuring cultural performances, patient experiences, and reflections on nearly two decades of cleft care.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr Palin Khundongbam, CMD, Shija Hospitals & Research Institute Pvt Ltd, recalled how Shija began treating cleft patients in partnership with Smile Train India in June 2006 .
He shared the memory of the hospital's first three cleft patients, followed two days later by 32 new patients seeking treatment.
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He also recounted the lasting image of a young cleft lip patient who wore lipstick despite her condition, symbolizing resilience.
Dr Palin highlighted that the guiding principle of the Smile Train Shija Cleft Project has been "teaching how to fish", focusing on capacity building and sustainable care.
Along with Smile Train partner surgeons Dr GN Sharma and Dr Nabakishore Haobijam, more than 5,000 cleft surgeries have been performed for patients from Manipur, Nagaland, Myanmar, and other northeastern states.
He further noted that cleft conditions can now even be detected before birth.
Dr Guruaribam Nilamani Sharma, Smile Train Partner Surgeon, shared his experiences and encouraged patients, saying "the sky's the limit".
Dr Bonney Khundongbam, Director of the Smile Train Shija Cleft Project, described the initiative as a service to humanity, reaffirmed Shija's 19-year commitment to cleft care, and urged patients to act as ambassadors by spreading awareness about the availability of free treatment.
The programme also included songs by Moirangthem Ningolleima Chanu and Alex Elangbam, and a Manipuri dance by Samom Dushila Devi.
Parents of cleft patients who attended Cleft Con India 2025 in Kolkata expressed gratitude to Dr Palin, his team, and Shija Hospitals for providing free treatment and transforming lives.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Dr Nabakishore Haobijam.
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