The doctor, who is also a cancer survivor and writer, has accomplished numerous remarkable achievements throughout his life despite facing significant hurdles.
His journey included enduring chemotherapy, undergoing bone marrow transplants, and having open-heart surgery.
Nevertheless, he persevered and graduated from the University of Western Sydney with a degree in medicine, earning him the title of NSW Young Australian of the Year for 2024.
In addition, Autar developed the Knia (Know In Advance) Maps app to enhance accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
This innovative app maps out accessibility features at major Sydney hospitals, universities, public venues, and transport facilities, as well as hundreds of small businesses.
He is also the founder of Bheem Health, a social enterprise dedicated to supplying affordable medical devices to those who are sick and vulnerable.
His first device, called BheemUP, allowed any bed to convert into a hospital bed.
Another project was a world-first sensor mat that tracked sleep phases and minimised pressure sores for patients.
Autar also raised almost $500,000 for pressure sore and medical device research.
Former Australian of the Year Professor Richard Scolyer and his wife Dr Katie Nicoll are among hundreds of people paying tribute to Autar.
“We are deeply saddened following the passing of Nikhil Autar, a remarkable Australian who showed us all the importance of living with compassion, kindness, and a never-ending commitment to helping others,” the couple said on social media.
“Richard and I had the pleasure of meeting Nikhil and his family at the 2024 NSW Australian of the Year Awards, and then spent a wonderful few days with them in Canberra at the national awards.
“Nikhil’s determination and courage, coupled with his humility and wonderful sense of humour, shone brightly.”
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