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The first successful human corneal transplant by Zirm in 19061 marked a new epoch in the history of corneal surgery. It was the first time that allogenic tissue from a donor was successfully used to perform a penetrating keratoplasty. While the first corneal transplant was the culmination of a surgeon's meticulous plan, we learn from Indian history2 that what is probably the first ever eye donation occurred as the consummation of a devotee's blind faith and unconditional love for his Lord.
The legend dates back to 600 AD and begins with Thinnan, the son of the chieftain of the community of hunters in Uduppur (now called Kalahasti in the state of Andhra Pradesh, India). Thinnan was assigned the duty of protecting the community from wild animals that strayed into the village. In the course of one such mission, Thinnan and his mates went into the forest in pursuit of wild pigs. The chase was taxing but they finally hunted down the animals. Being famished, the hunters decided to make a meal of the meat of these animals. While his friends cooked, Thinnan went to fetch some water from the river Ponmughali, which flowed nearby. On a hillock alongside the river was a small temple of Lord Shiva. On reaching the river, Thinnan felt the urge to visit the temple and hence climbed the hillock to reach it. On seeing the idol of the Lord,...