Laxmi Agarwal, a symbol of resilience, is an acid attack survivor and activist whose life story inspires millions. Her journey from victim to advocate is a testament to her unwavering spirit and determination to fight for justice and change.

Biography/Wiki

Born on June 1, 1990, in New Delhi, Laxmi Agarwal’s life took a tragic turn at the age of 15. In 2005, she was brutally attacked with acid by Guddu (Nahim Khan) and two accomplices after rejecting a marriage proposal. This horrific event left her with severe facial and bodily disfigurement.

Despite the immense physical and emotional trauma, Laxmi’s spirit remained unbroken. She embarked on a courageous journey of recovery and advocacy, becoming a powerful voice for acid attack survivors worldwide.

Boyfriend, Children & Family

Laxmi comes from a humble middle-class family. Her father was a cook, and her mother a homemaker. Her father was a significant source of strength during her recovery. Sadly, both her father and brother passed away due to prolonged illness.

She met Alok Dixit, her partner, during an advocacy campaign. They chose to live together without marriage, defying societal norms. They have a daughter, Pihu, together. However, the couple later separated.

Career

Laxmi’s education was interrupted by the acid attack, but she completed her 10th standard. She hosted the television show “Udaan” on New Express in 2014 and co-founded the Chhanv Foundation, an NGO dedicated to helping acid attack survivors.

Her activism earned her international recognition, including the International Women of Courage Award presented by Michelle Obama in 2014. She also participated in London Fashion Week in 2016, showcasing her strength and beauty.

Laxmi’s work extends to various campaigns, including her own initiative, “StopSaleAcid,” which highlights the need to restrict acid sales. She has also been involved in hunger strikes advocating for improved rehabilitation and legal justice for acid attack survivors.

Her advocacy played a crucial role in influencing the Supreme Court’s 2013 decision to regulate acid sales in India.

Facts

Laxmi harbored dreams of becoming a singer or dancer before the attack. She was on her way to her first singing class when the attack occurred. The birth of her daughter initially filled her with apprehension, fearing her daughter’s reaction to her disfigurement.

In 2018, Laxmi openly discussed the challenges of finding employment that could adequately support her and Pihu, despite her skills as a beautician. That same year, Deepika Padukone starred in a biopic about her life, produced by Padukone herself in collaboration with director Meghna Gulzar.