Acclaimed Odisha gynaecologist Dr K. Laxmi Bai has marked the beginning of her centenary year with a historic act of generosity by donating Rs 3.40 crore,her lifetime savings,to AIIMS Bhubaneswar to support women’s cancer care. The legendary doctor from Berhampur’s Bhaba Nagar expressed that her heartfelt wish is to help establish a dedicated gynecological oncology program that will nurture future medical professionals and bring hope to countless women battling cancer.

Dr Laxmi Bai’s philanthropic gesture reflects the same compassion and commitment with which she served generations of women across Odisha for more than five decades. Revered as a pioneer in women’s healthcare, she has been celebrated for her clinical expertise, her role in empowering women through dignified care, and her unwavering dedication to the profession.

Born on December 5, 1926, Dr Laxmi made history as part of the first-ever MBBS batch of SCB Medical College, Cuttack in 1945. She earned her degree in 1950 and later completed DGO and MD in Obstetrics and Gynaecology from Madras Medical College in 1958. Her exceptional merit won her a one-year stipend at Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, USA, where she pursued an MPH and broadened her understanding of humane and community-oriented medical service.

Her remarkable 36-year government career began in 1950 at Government Hospital, Sundargarh and continued until her retirement in 1986 as Professor of O&G at MKCG Medical College, Berhampur. Throughout her illustrious journey, she became known as a symbol of healing, integrity and compassion, touching thousands of lives with her gentle yet resolute approach.

In recognition of her monumental contributions to healthcare, Dr Laxmi Bai has been honoured with numerous awards including the Lady Eminence of South Odisha 2012, Bharat Jyoti Award, International Friendship Society Award 2020 and Best Citizen of India Award 2021. Even decades after her retirement, families across Odisha fondly remember her as a healer who restored dignity, confidence and hope to women during their most vulnerable moments.

As she steps into her 100th year, Dr Laxmi Bai has chosen to celebrate not with personal festivities but with a legacy of service. Her extraordinary donation to AIIMS Bhubaneswar stands as a profound reminder that true greatness lies in giving back to society. Her act of kindness will have a lasting impact on women’s health infrastructure in Odisha, ensuring that future generations continue to benefit from her vision, values and lifelong dedication.