Dr. N.K. Agarwala

Dr. N.K. Agarwala was born on March 29, 1938, in Kamarbandha Ali, Golaghat. He completed his schooling at Kamarbandha High School and went on to earn his MBBS from Assam Medical College, Dibrugarh, in 1965. Following his graduation, he established a pharmacy named Drug House in Dibrugarh and began his journey in general medical practice. Over time, the pharmacy grew into a thriving business enterprise.

In pursuit of higher education, Dr. Agarwala traveled to the United Kingdom in 1965. He earned a Diploma in Tropical Medicine and Hygiene from Liverpool in 1968, followed by a Diploma in Laryngology and Otology (D.L.O) from London in 1972, and an FRCS from Edinburgh in 1974. After nearly a decade of practicing medicine in Inverness and Edinburgh, he returned to Assam with a vision to serve his people.

In 1977, he established his ENT clinic in Bharalumukh, Guwahati. His clinical expertise and compassionate care quickly earned him a reputation as a skilled and respected ENT specialist. As his popularity grew, so did the number of patients visiting his clinic – soon exceeding its capacity. Recognizing the need for a dedicated ENT facility in the city, Dr. Agarwala laid the foundation stone for his own hospital in 1989. Thus, Nightingale Hospital was born – a testament to his commitment to advancing ENT care in Assam.

Dr. N.K. Agarwala was one of Assam’s most revered ENT specialists, known not only for his clinical expertise but also for his extraordinary compassion and humility. Though primarily an ENT surgeon, his medical journey included diverse experience in areas like ophthalmology and renal transplantation. He was among the pioneers who popularized Micro Ear Surgery and Rhinoplasty in Assam, earning a distinguished place in the state’s medical history.

A highly respected figure in the medical community, Dr. Agarwala was known for his gentle demeanor and deep personal commitment to each patient’s well-being. Many of his former patients still fondly recall how his presence alone brought them comfort. His practice was rooted in empathy, and his humility stood out as a defining feature of his work.

He held prominent roles in professional associations, including serving as Vice-President of the Northeastern branch of the Association of Otolaryngologists of India (AOI), and was an active member of the Medical Practitioners Association. Over the years, he was honored with numerous awards and accolades in recognition of his contributions to medicine.

Beyond his remarkable medical career, Dr. Agarwala was also a gifted magician. Fascinated by magic from a young age, he pursued the art with passion and finesse. Over time, he became one of Assam’s most celebrated magicians, performing on prestigious stages across India, Japan, and the USA.

He was an honorary member of the Association of Magical Arts of India and the International Brotherhood of Magicians. In recognition of his excellence, he was awarded the title “Jadu Bhaskar” by the Brotherhood of Magicians of India. His ability to seamlessly master both medicine and magic made him a truly rare and remarkable individual – one who was as magical on the operating table as he was on stage.

Dr. Agarwala was deeply engaged in social service and cultural activities. He served as President of the Rotary Club of Guwahati South and was associated with various respected institutions, including the Assam Sahitya Sabha and the All Assam Navin Lekhak-Lekhika Samaroh. His love for literature led him to author the Assamese novel “Aiya Jano Pratikhya” in 1987, which received widespread appreciation.

In June 1994, he was felicitated by the Hon’ble Governor of Assam, Shri L.N. Mishra, on the occasion of Bishnu Rabha Diwas – an acknowledgment of his cultural and social contributions.

Dr. N.K. Agarwala passed away on October 19, 1995, at the age of 57, after battling cancer. His untimely demise was a profound loss to his family, patients, and the larger community. A brilliant doctor, a passionate artist, a devoted social worker, and above all, a kind and generous human being – he left behind a legacy that continues to inspire.

Though he is no longer with us, Dr. Agarwala’s life and work remain etched in the hearts of all who knew him. His vision lives on through Nightingale Hospital, and the many lives he touched continue to celebrate his memory.