Prayagraj: Laxmi Kant Dikshit, a former blind school principal, passed away at 100 years and two days, leaving behind a legacy of compassion and service. He selflessly donated his eyes posthumously, enabling two visually impaired individuals to experience the world’s colours.

Dikshit’s commitment to humanity was evident in his 1964 pledge, made upon resigning as principal of Delhi’ Blind School at Lal Kuan, where he dedicated six years to educating visually challenged children. Returning to Prayagraj, he continued social and philanthropic endeavors

Doctors at the eye bank praised the centenarian’s selfless act, saying his decision to donate his eyes should inspire others to follow suit.

An avid reader even in his advanced age, Dikshit loved books deeply and donated hundreds of them to schools and the Allahabad University library. He also distributed many volumes among lovers of Hindi literature, encouraging the habit of reading among students and fellow enthusiasts.

Originally hailing from Sandila, a town near Lucknow, Dikshit came from a respected family where his father was a renowned doctor. He is survived by a distinguished family. His son, Anupam Dikshit, is a retired professor from the department of botany, Allahabad University, and his daughter-in-law, Shalini Dikshit, recently retired as assistant commissioner of Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan, Varanasi region. Adding to the family’s achievements, his elder granddaughter, Sqn Ldr Shobhita Dikshit, is serving the nation in the Indian Air Force, while the younger granddaughter, Smita Dikshit, is working as an Assistant Professor at AMTZ, Visakhapatnam.

Educationists, social workers and former students paid rich tributes, remembering him as a man of simplicity and strong principles who devoted his life to the cause of the differently abled.

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