I met Professor K. R. Saxena for the first time when I went with my father for my admission to M.Sc. Zoology. I was both nervous and excited to meet in person Dr. K. R. Saxena, whose textbooks I had studied during my college days.
             He welcomed me warmly to the department, advised me about my studies and encouraged me to do well. I was deeply impressed by his humility, gentleness and positive nature.
             While studying the books authored by him was immensely useful, having the opportunity to learn from him in the classroom was truly our good fortune.
             Sir was an excellent teacher, a great academician and an able administrator. An exceptionally learned person, he made his classroom teaching not only informative and easy to understand, but also interesting and enjoyable.
             He was always approachable and ready to listen to students' problems. He counselled, encouraged and guided them whenever required.
              His caring and affectionate nature was evident whenever he met students in the corridors, with his familiar “Kaisa chal raha hai?”, “Sab theek-thaak hai?” and his warm smile.
               A man of great composure, dignity and decorum, Professor K. R. Saxena was deeply respected and admired by all who knew him.
               I have personally learnt a great deal from him and feel privileged to remember him with gratitude and affection on the occasion of his 100th Birth Anniversary.

Sugita Mathur
M.Sc. Zoology, 1977–79 Batch
Department of Zoology,
Osmania University