Dr Ramachandra Pararajasegaram was revered as a father figure not only by us at LVPEI, but by countless others all over the world. A gentleman to the core and a stalwart in the field of ophthalmology, especially community eye health, he was an iconic leader and truly ‘walked the talk’ with his extraordinary work and deeds.
Dr Para, as he was fondly called, was an excellent clinician, researcher, leader, and above all a great humanitarian whose contribution to the global crusade against needless blindness will be remembered by the many generations to come. He held several important global positions, including leadership positions at the World Health Organization, International Association for Prevention of Blindness and International Council of Ophthalmology.
The ‘Ramachandra Pararajasegaram Community Eye Health Education Centre’, at the institute stands testimony to the significant value addition made by him in developing this component as a very strong functional arm at LVPEI.
Today, the LVPEI family has not only lost a great leader, but also a beloved friend, mentor, guide and well-wisher. We will forever cherish our strong association with him and his life will continue to inspire us to do much more for the people of the community that were so dear to him.
