A Fond Remembrance of Professor Kanteshwar Raj Saxena
Professor Kanteshwar Raj Saxena was my uncle, but in my life, he was much more than an uncle. He was a fatherly figure, a mentor, a generous guide, and someone whose affection and encouragement I will always cherish.
When I decided to pursue my PhD, he took a personal interest in helping me find the right mentor. His guidance and encouragement gave me the confidence to pursue my doctoral studies and ultimately complete my PhD and join the Department of Botany at Osmania University. His support at that important stage of my life remains deeply meaningful to me.
What I remember most, however, is his extraordinary kindness and generosity towards people. When he was Principal of Saidabad College, he would give the money he received for invigilation to the non-teaching staff. It was a simple gesture, but it reflected the compassion and concern he had for those around him.
Whenever we visited him, he never allowed us to leave without having lunch or dinner with him. His home was always filled with warmth and affection.
I still remember one particular visit when I had taken my twins with me. Looking at them, he smiled and said, “Neeti ke bachche are very disciplined.” Those few words have stayed with me all these years and remain a cherished memory.
His zoology textbooks stand as a lasting testament to his scholarship, dedication, and contribution as an educator. But for those of us who knew him personally, his true legacy goes far beyond his books and academic achievements. It lives in the lives he touched, the students he inspired, the people he helped, and the kindness he showed so naturally.
I feel privileged and grateful to have had him in my life.
Professor Kanteshwar Raj Saxena will always remain a deeply respected scholar and teacher, but to me, he will always be the loving uncle and fatherly guide whose encouragement helped shape my journey.
