In the rich tapestry of Indian mythology, gods and goddesses are often depicted with multiple arms, symbolizing divine power and supernatural abilities. However, in modern times, a real- life case emerged that seemed to bring mythology to life. In 2005, a baby girl named Lakshmi Tatma was born in a small village in Bihar, India, with four arms and four legs. Her condition was due to a rare congenital disorder known as parasitic twinning, where an underdeveloped twin remains attached to the surviving baby.

Lakshmi' s birth caused both awe and reverence among the villagers. Because her appearance resembled that of Goddess Lakshmi, the Hindu deity of wealth and prosperity, many believed she was a divine incarnation. People from nearby villages traveled long distances to see her, offering prayers and seeking blessings. Her family, though initially overwhelmed, accepted the belief that she was special.

However, despite the religious significance attributed to her extra limbs, Lakshmi faced serious health risks. The additional body parts were not functional and placed immense strain on her tiny frame, potentially leading to life- threatening complications as she grew older.

As news of her condition spread, medical experts took an interest in her case. A team of highly skilled surgeons at Sparsh Hospital in Bangalore decided to intervene with a groundbreaking procedure. In 2007, when Lakshmi was just two years old, a complex 27- hour surgery was performed to remove the extra limbs and reconstruct her body. The procedure involved separating the non- functioning twin' s tissues, reconstructing Lakshmi' s pelvic region, and ensuring she could lead a normal life. It was one of the most challenging surgeries of its kind, requiring the expertise of multiple specialists.