Jamsetji Tata : A Tribute to the Legend on his 185th Birth Anniversary, 3 March 2024

Tribute to the Philanthropic industrialist, Jamsetji Tata and his legacy in building scientific institutions in India. 

Today 3rd March 2024, we commemorate 185th Janma Jayanti (birth anniversary) of the legendary philanthropic industrialist, Jamsetji Tata, often hailed as the father of modern Indian industry, whose visionary ideas and philanthropic endeavours continue to shape the landscape of Indian business, more particularly the Tata group – which he founded – and its work culture which makes the brand TATA the most valuable and trust worthy brand not just in India but globally. His legacy, characterized by his relentless innovation and unwavering commitment to societal progress, remains an enduring inspiration for generations to come. 

I was privileged to have been invited by the Mumbai University and Vigyan Bharti, the joint organisers of a National Seminar and an Exhibition on Jamsetji Tata, to be a member of a panel discussion in August 2023 at the centuries old historic venue of the convocation centre of the Mumbai University. Post the event, I had a pleasant surprise of getting an invitation from the Editor of Science India magazine to write an article on the role of Tata’s in establishing Scientific and Research institutions in Independent India. which I had the honour to write and this piece was later published in the Science India magazine. However, the published article had a size restriction and therefore today on this occasion of 185th birth anniversary of Jamsetji Tata, I am honoured to write this blog with a more detailed commentary on the legacy of the Tata’s in building scientific academic institutions in India for the leisure reading of my friends and followers on my Blog and on my Facebook. 

The genesis for the contributions of the Tata’s in establishing scientific and research institutions in independent India takes us back to the ideals of the founding father of the Tata Group, Jamsetji Nusserwanji Tata. “What advances a nation or community is not so much to prop up its weakest and the most helpless, as to lift the best and most gifted, so as to make them of the greatest service to the country." It was this thought of Jamsetji that his biographer, Frank Harris, chronicles in his book - Jamsetji Nusserwanji Tata: A Chronicle of his Life, which became the genesis for the establishment of the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) the premier science academic institution in India, which later birthed the ideas for founding the two premier institutions in India – Department of Atomic Energy and Indian Space Research Organisation by the two legends who had the honour to study and work at the Indian Institute of Science with Professor C V Raman, the Nobel Laureate. 

IISc was the first scientific and research institution established by the Tata’s in 1909. However, it must also be remembered that by then the Indian Association for the Cultivation of Sciences (IACS), was already founded by a genius medical doctor and social reformer, Mahendra Lal Sirkar in Calcutta (now Kolkata) in 1876. But unfortunately, IACS – “devoted to the pursuit of fundamental research in the frontier areas of basic sciences” – was not supported by the government and it had to rely on public contributions. Therefore, IACS could not succeed during the lifetime of its founder and had to wait until the arrival of young CV Raman to Calcutta - in the early 20th century - and be associated with IACS to transform this institute into a world-class institute. 

IISc was one of those three monumental vision projects of a veritably colossal character that Jamsetji Tata dreamt of – Tata Steel, Tata Hydroelectric Power, and the Indian Institute of Science - which proved to be a robust foundation for building, what Nehru termed, “temples of modern India”, post-independence. Beginning with the IISc, Tatas have established other institutions – Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), Tata Institute of Social Science, National Centre for Performing Arts, Tata Memorial Hospital, National Institute of Advanced Studies, Computer Research Laboratory etc. - that have served as a catalyst for the establishment of canonical institutions like the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), and Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), which have made the country proud through their science and technological achievements and contributions to the country. 

This essay attempts to portray the role of the Tatas, with specific reference to its founder Jamsetji Tata, in establishing IISc. 

Chance interaction between two co-passengers – Swami Vivekananda and Jamsetji Tata 

Legend has it that the seed for establishing a world-class science and research institution in India was sowed in the mind of Jamsetji Tata during that historic voyage, which started on 14 July 1893, at 3.40 PM. On board, this ship were two passengers - Jamsetji Tata and Swami Vivekananda, who would, in their respective ways, be destined to shape the future of India. Jamsetji and Swami ji were on board the ocean liner SS Empress of India, which set sail from the Japanese port of Yokohama on its voyage to Vancouver, in British Columbia, Canada. Although there are no anecdotal or recorded data on what transpired between the two on board their long journey, yet, a letter that Jamsetji wrote to Swami Vivekananda in 1898, evidences what it may have been. 

In his letter, dated 23 November 1898, addressed to Swami Vivekananda, Jamsetji recalls the discussion between the two of them that sparked an interest in Jamsetji in dreaming of building IISC. The letter reads “I trust you remember me as a fellow traveller on your voyage from Japan to Chicago. I very much recall at this moment your views on the growth of the ascetic spirit in India, and the duty, not of destroying, but of diverting it into useful channels. I recall these ideas in connection with my scheme of a Research Institute of Science for India, of which you have doubtless heard or read. It seems to me that no better use can be made of the ascetic spirit than the establishment of monasteries or residential halls for men dominated by this spirit, where they should live with ordinary decency, and devote their lives to the cultivation of sciences—natural and humanistic”. A long period of trials and tribulations was to elapse between the initial conception of establishing a scientific research institution - perhaps on that historic voyage in 1893 - to the birth of the Indian Institute of Science on May 27, 1909. 

Trials and Tribulations in Building IISc 

Jamsetji was an itinerant traveller who travelled the world to learn the best of science and technological practices for implementation in India. Therefore, it was no wonder that he chose one of his trusted aides, a young Parsi, Burjorji Padshah, who was a fellow of the Elphinstone College of Bombay to pursue a study of the best scientific research educational institutions in the Western world and to submit a report for establishment of such an institute in India. Burjorji Padshah became a central character in the setting up of what was to become IISc. Padshah was involved in all the major projects conceived by Jamsetji Tata, but executed after Tata’s death in 1904; the hydroelectric project, IISc, and the Jamshedpur steel factory. 

Padshah, visited many countries in the West to study and understand how universities function. He then prepared a draft report for the establishment of a research institution in India which he submitted to Jamsetji by highlighting that “...such a university might be the crown of the existing universities.” He also stressed on the demand for postgraduate education in India. On receiving this report from Padshah, Jamsetji constituted a Provisional Committee, with Padshah as its head to study and finalise the report, which he could submit to the British for the establishment of a research institute in India. Jamsetji and Padshah met newly appointed viceroy-designate Lord Curzon and submitted their report on December 31, 1898. Being new to the job, Lord Curzon was in no hurry to act on the proposal, and therefore, he advised the Provisional Committee to invite a European scientist to advise on the venture. The committee chose Sir William Ramsay, the famous British chemist, and a future Nobel Prize winner (1904 for Chemistry) for this task. 

Ramsay submitted a detailed report to the Government of India in early 1901 about the university (he called it the Indian Institute of Research) which he believed should be in Bangalore. One of the observations that Ramsey made while touring India in connection with the task, was that “for Indians, English remained a foreign tongue; but they applied all the powers of memory and imitation, with which he was so liberally endowed, to acquire the information for a degree, a stepping stone to a post in the government service.” He strongly recommended that an institution like the Indian Institute of Research, will break that job-seeking desire and create an ambiance for scientific research, which he believed will benefit India. 

Jamsetji knew that the government would take its own time to support this project and for expediting it, he proactively met the Dewan of Mysore State, Seshadri Iyer, and sought his help for acquiring a suitable plot of land in Bangalore. Mr. Iyer, who was well known to Jamsetji, was also the advisor to the Regent Queen Vani Vilasa Sannidhana, who ruled the State on behalf of her son Krishna Rajendra Wadiyar IV, then still a minor. An extraordinary decision was made by the Mysore King to donate 371 acres of land in Bangalore for establishing the institute. He also provided an additional Rs. 5 lakhs towards capital expenditure for building the research institution. Armed with all these commitments and his own financial support of Rs. 30 Lakhs for the institution, Jamsetji, felt that it was just a matter of time before his dream could become a reality The land and money from the Mysore Maharaj were, however, formally handed over in 1907. 

The British Government had some concerns about Ramsay’s suggestions and therefore another committee comprising Colonel John Clibborn, Principal of Thomason College of Civil Engineering (later renamed IIT Roorkee), and David Orme Masson, a professor from Melbourne University was appointed to make a recommendation. This committee made several recommendations (most of them were accepted) and also urged the Government to consider Roorkee as a potential location for the Institute, which was rightfully not accepted. Unfortunately, even after all these efforts by Jamsetji, the institute was yet to take off. By then, unfortunately, Jamsetji Tata passed away in May 1904. After several delays following his death, the Government finally passed on a vesting order on 27 May 1909, officially creating IISc. The Institute began with only two departments: General and Applied Chemistry and Electro-Technology and the students were admitted in IISc in 1911. 

IISc Land Mark Building – The Library Block with an imposing Tower. 

Much before the government permission and order was in place a decision was taken by Sir Dorabji Tata, able son of Sir Jamsetji Tata, to construct the Main Building and this work began even before the Institute was officially created in 1909. Interestingly, one of the students of Ramsey, Dr. Morris Travers, was chosen to be the First Director of this new institute and he arrived in India in late 1906. A chemist by training (he had worked with William Ramsay on the discovery of noble gases), Dr. Travers got the chance to be associated with the institution from its inception and he went on to become the founder, Director IISc. 

Travers appointed CF Stevens, an architect from Bombay for the project and to prepare estimates and draw up a plan for the Main Building, called the Library Block. This building was estimated to cost Rs 13 lakh, well above what IISc could afford. According to Stevens’ plan, the Main Building was to be crowned by an imposing 150-foot tower and was to be a silver-grey granite structure roofed with red tiles built in a classical style using dressed stone. Most of the first floor was to be taken up by a large library; the east wing would have the chemistry labs and the west wing would have the electrical lab, along with a workshop. After several delays, this building was finally completed in 1919. Even today the main building continues to be a landmark for IISc. 

During the first quarter century of IISc’s formative years from 1909 to 1933, the Institute embarked upon several viable scientific and technical investigations, which paved the way for the establishment of certain industries. Ever since its inception, the Institute has been laying a balanced emphasis on the pursuit of knowledge in basic science and engineering as well as on the application of its research findings for industrial and social benefits. What has been most remarkable in the historical profile of IISc, through its centenary and beyond, is the balance in the various domains of its activity: education, research, development, international outreach, and societal development. With the establishment of the University Grants Commission (UGC) in 1956, IISc came under its purview, being deemed as a university under the UGC Act. 

IISc has helped produce many scientists and science and technology leaders in India. IISc also played a pivotal role in supporting HAL in the design and development of Asia’s first fighter aircraft HF 24 – Marut, which although not very successful, paved the way for the development of TEJAS Light combat fighter aircraft. Incidentally, the first of the IITs to come up in India was IIT Kharagpur, which was established courtesy of the efforts of Dr JN Ghosh who succeeded CV Raman as the Director of IISc. Other IITs followed later and they too have an imprint of IISc. 

Some of the notable faculty associated with IISc who helped build other academic and research institutions in India include G N Ramachandran - bimolecular structures - S Ramaseshan who built schools in crystallography and materials science, Brahm Prakash, metallurgist, who helped build NML and VSSC and P K Kelkar who planned and set up the IITs at Bombay and Kanpur Looking at the Institute from a historical perspective, one can see that several illustrious men of science and engineering have studied or served at the Institute and have played a pivotal role in nation-building. Sir C. V Roman, Dr. Homi J. Bhabha, Dr. Vikram A. Sarabhai, Prof. Brahm Prakash, Prof. G. N. Ramachandran, Prof. Satish Dhawan, Prof. C.N.R. Rao, and Dr. R Chidambaram, - to mention only a few- have all enriched the academic life of the Institute. Over the years, IISc has evolved into the best multidisciplinary research and education institution in India that has international standing and repute.

Although IISc remains the crème de la crème of the institutions that the Tatas established some other institutions need to be mentioned. 

Tata Institute of Fundamental Research. 

The idea for the development of TIFR was seeded at IISc in the mind of its founder, Dr. Homi Bhabha, while he was at IISc working with Prof C V Raman. It was on 19 August 1943, Dr Bhabha, wrote a letter to J.R.D. Tata, the head of the Tata group, about his ambitious plan to establish a Fundamental Research Centre in Bombay, for which he appealed to JRD Tata for his support. Bhabha wrote; ‘the lack of proper conditions and intelligent financial support hampers the development of science in India, at the pace at which the talent in the country would warrant.’ He highlighted the importance of financial support that is necessary for the progress of Indian science, particularly for pure and fundamental scientific research, which would provide economic returns in the long term. 

World War II was in a way responsible for Dr Homi Bhabha and his colleague, Dr Vikram Sarabhai to return back to India from England and work with Prof C V Raman at the Indian Institute of Science. The end of WWII provided an opportunity for Bhabha to return back to Cambridge, from where he had received a job offer. However, Dr Bhabha, felt that ‘it is one’s duty to stay in one’s own country’ and help in creating new institutions for national progress. 

JRD Tata, who considered Jamsetji as his ideal, was always looking for opportunities in his entrepreneurship that would be beneficial for India. He found one such great opportunity for the Tata group to invest in the proposal which Dr. Bhabha had mooted in his letter. JRD Tata wrote back to Dr. Bhabha with great encouragement: ‘If you and some of your colleagues in the scientific world will put up concrete proposals backed by a sound case, I think there is a very good chance that the Tata Trusts would respond.’ Dr. Bhabha prepared a concrete proposal while still at IISc by listing out all his thoughts. Writing to the chairman of the Dorabji Tata Trust (12 March 1944) Bhabha highlighted; “such an institute would ensure that India had its own expertise for the development of nuclear energy in the future, and would not have to look abroad for it”. It is interesting to note that his letter and his vision for establishing a research centre for nuclear energy research predate the first atomic bomb. 

The trustees of Dorabji Tata Trust saw how the vision of Dr. Bhabha would benefit the country, and decided to support him in the creation of the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR). TIFR opened its doors in 1945, initially for a brief while in Bangalore, but shifted to Mumbai soon thereafter. Its first Mumbai home was a bungalow called ‘Kenilworth’, where Bhabha was born. 

The Cosmic Ray Group was the first scientific team to begin functioning, followed by the Nuclear Emulsion and Electron Magnetism Group. The computer science and technology team began its work in 1954, and a full-scale computer, named the TIFRAC, was commissioned in 1960, which was the first Indian-made digital computer, a proud moment for the country. In 1962, TIFR moved to its beautiful current campus in Colaba, where it stands even today. When India began its atomic energy programme in the 1960s, TIFR had already trained competent scientists to steer this important national effort. In fact, ‘Apsara’, the first atomic reactor, built at BARC, and its control systems were constructed under the auspices of TIFR. The Indian nuclear program including the Pokhran I and Pokhran II, in a way, owe their genesis to TIFR. 

Realizing the importance of the institute for its nation-building, in the year 1955, the Government of India decided to take responsibility for this institution with the Tatas continuing to be present on its governing council. Today, TIFR is a national centre of the Government of India under the purview of the Department of Atomic Energy – a creation of Bhabha. TIFR has consistently pursued the vision of Dr. Homi Bhabha in creating a world-class research centre and has made a significant contribution to India’s scientific and technological research including in the field of atomic energy programme. It has also birthed several new ideas including the establishment of the Centre for Development of Telematics – CDOT, which heralded the telecom revolution in India. 

 Today, the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research stands as a testament to the vision of its founders and the dedication of generations of scientists who have contributed to its legacy. Its commitment to fundamental research, interdisciplinary collaboration, research excellence, and education has played a pivotal role in advancing Indian science. TIFR's influence is not merely confined to the realm of academia; it has a broader societal impact through technological advancements, the nurturing of scientific talent, and the promotion of a culture of curiosity and exploration. As India continues to aspire to greater heights in the scientific domain, TIFR's importance remains undiminished, serving as a beacon of inspiration for generations to come. 

The Fight Against Cancer  - Tata Memorial Hospital

Tata Memorial Centre (TMC) is one of the institutes, established by Tatas that has touched the lives of lakhs of people by helping them fight the scourge of cancer. It was established as a tribute to Sir Dorabji Tata, whose dream it was to establish a cancer hospital in India as a mark of respect for his wife, Lady Meherbai Tata, who had sadly died of leukemia in 1932. Shortly thereafter, Sir Dorabji Tata also passed away. But such was his determination and commitment to the cause that the Tata group headed by Sir Nowroji Saklatvala and the trustees of the Sir Dorabji Tata Trust attached top priority to the project of creating the first cancer hospital in India. They invited an American expert, Dr. John Spies, an international expert to visit India and recommend the best-suited cancer research hospital for the country. The result was the establishment of the Tata Memorial Hospital in 1941. 

Over the past several decades, the Tata Memorial Centre has been supported and managed by the Department of Atomic Energy. In 1941, when it was founded, it was yet another pioneering effort by the Tata Group, a gift to a nation that did not have a comprehensive cancer hospital of its own. 

Tata Institute of Social Science 

Social science was another subject that was very close to the heart of Jamsetji Tata. Therefore, it was but natural for the Tata group to support the establishment of a Dorabji Tata Graduate School of Social Work, which came up in 1936. In the year 1944, it was rechristened as the Tata Institute of Social Science (TISS), a premier institution in the country for professional training in social work. Ever since, TISS has emerged as a pioneer of social work education in the Asia Pacific region and has since made significant contributions in the area of social policy, planning, intervention strategies, and human resource development. 

EKA –Tata’s foray into India’s first Super Computer. 

Tatas are known for taking up challenges to develop the best for the country and one such opportunity, which the Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), accepted was to build a Super Computer for India. The result was the development of the EKA Supercomputer, which became the fourth fastest supercomputer in the world. A proposal to build this Super Computer in India was mooted by two IITians Mr Sherwalkar and Karmakar who presented their idea to Mr S Ramadorai the Chief of TCS. Convinced with their idea, Mr Ramadorai, put up the proposal to Ratan Tata and sought his approval for this project which was capital intensive. Although the project faced many hiccups including a difference in opinion between the Tata group and Karmakar, the project came through. 

Computer Research Laboratory (CRL) in Pune was commissioned by TCS for building a supercomputer that could clock 100 teraflops, a speed that was mandated to call the computer a Super Computer. Finally, when the project EKA - a Sanskrit name for “one” - was completed in 2007 it could work at 118 Teraflops, and it was declared the fourth fastest supercomputer in the world. It is achievements such as this in the international arena in the field of computers that have posited India to be at the forefront of IT and Tata Group has played its role in this endeavour. 

Conclusion. 

The legacy of the Tata family in building institutions in India is a remarkable testament to their commitment to social welfare, education, and industrial progress. Over the years, the Tatas have played a pivotal role in establishing a range of institutions that have had a profound impact on various sectors of Indian society. Their visionary approach and philanthropic endeavours have left an indelible mark on the country's development.

Images : Courtesy Wikipaedia  ___________________________________________________________________________

25 January - National Voters Day: Empowering Democracy through Participation

 

The miraculously successful Indian Democracy owes its genesis to the Voters, let us hail them all on National Voters Day, today. Today, 25 January, we celebrate the 14th National Voters Day. Commemorating National Voters Day began in 2010, which marked the sixtieth year of the founding of the Election Commission of India, which was established on January 25, 1950. Today, as we commemorate National Voters Day, it is pertinent to remember that this day stands as a testament to the pivotal role played by the electorate in shaping the destiny of a nation. In the vast and diverse tapestry of India's democratic landscape, this day serves as a reminder of the extraordinary significance that 'we the people' hold in fostering a vibrant and thriving democracy.

Central to the beauty and vibrancy of the Indian democracy is the Indian electorates - the rich and mighty, the powerful and powerless, the poor and the insignificant, the lettered and unlettered, sheltered and unsheltered, the males, females and the trans gender’s, the believers and non-believers, Hindus, Muslims, Parsis, Sikhs, Christians, Jains, Buddhists, religious and non-religious, young, middle-aged, old and the very old - all standing as equals, each rubbing shoulders with one another, in the true spirit of equality and humanity first, who make our democracy thrive. While we celebrate this day today, let us reemphasize the significance of voters for the success of the Indian democracy.

 In the early years post-independence, India faced challenges associated with low literacy rates, just 16 % when we attained independence in 1947. Despite this drawback, the framers of the Indian Constitution, led by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and his colleagues, demonstrated extraordinary foresight and a deep commitment to democratic principles. They recognized that the essence of democracy lies in inclusivity, irrespective of educational background. Notably, the recognition of women's equality in the right to vote is a significant feat. At a time when even advanced democracies were grappling with gender disparities in voting rights, India stood out by ensuring universal adult suffrage, including women, from the very inception of its republic. This progressive stance not only set a powerful precedent but also contributed to shaping a more inclusive and egalitarian society.

In the broader global context, India's approach to voting rights becomes particularly noteworthy. Many established democracies took considerable time to grant women the right to vote, with some not achieving full suffrage until the mid-20th century. India's commitment to equal voting rights, regardless of gender or educational background, showcased a progressive vision that went beyond the prevalent norms of its time. If we look back in time and see what our status was when we attained our independence, not many would have predicted – including the optimists - that India as a democracy would survive for more than a few decades or so.

 What the odds were for India succeeding as a thriving democracy, when we attained independence, can best be seen when we juxtapose Indian democracy as a start-up company in 1947. Not even the most adventurous and risk-taking Venture Capitalists would have considered investing in the Indian democracy. More so since there were many doomsday predictions made by the British, evidence of which can be seen from the last British commander in chief of the Indian Army, Gen. Claude Auchinleck. He wrote “The Sikhs may try to set up a separate regime. I think they probably will and that will be only the start of a general decentralization and break-up of the idea that India is a country, whereas it is a subcontinent as varied as Europe. The Punjabi is as different from a Madrassi as a Scot is from an Italian. The British tried to consolidate it but achieved nothing permanent. No one can make a nation out of a continent of many nations.”

Gen. Claude Auchinleck was not the sole voice to make such a doomsday prediction for Indian democracy. When we attained independence, India was a nation within nations with as many as 565 princely states and many more divisions. Helped by Sardar Patel, India was united to carve out the geographical and political map that we see today. However, in those early days of our democracy, doomsday predictions for India and Indian democracy were dime a dozen. India would not survive as a single nation, was one common observation by most Western observers, let alone becoming a successful democracy. One of the former British officials, who witnessed the first general elections in India in 1952 wrote “a future and more enlightened age will view with astonishment the absurd farce of recording the votes of millions of illiterate people.”

From such negativity and doomsday predictions, Indian democracy has passed through periods of trials and tribulations to emerge triumphant and today when we are commemorating the 14th National Voters Day, while commending ourselves and patting us on our back, we must resolve to spread the message of the importance of voting in a democracy and each of us must go out to exercise our democratic rights without fear or favour.

The essence of democracy lies in the active participation of its citizens in the electoral process. National Voters Day serves as a platform to recognize the power vested in the hands of the common man—the power to elect representatives who will voice their concerns, aspirations, and dreams. It underscores the idea that every vote cast is a brick in the foundation of a nation's future.

 India, with its diverse population and myriad challenges, relies on the collective wisdom of its citizens to navigate the complex web of governance. National Voters Day, therefore, becomes not just a celebration of the right to vote but also a call to duty, urging each citizen to exercise this right responsibly. 

As we reflect on the relevance of this day, it becomes imperative for us to look back on the percentage of voters who exercised their franchise during the general elections. This data reveal that in the very first general elections conducted in 1952, India recorded an impressive 61.2% of votes and this number continued to be quite impressive hovering around 60% or so (62.2% in 1957, 55.42 in 1962, 61.33 in 1967, 55.29 in 1971, 60.49 in 1977, 56.92 in 1980, 63.56 in 1984, 61.95 in 1989, 56.93 in 1991, 57.94 in 1996, 61.97 in 1998, 59.99 in 1999). The voting percentage fell abruptly to below 50% for the first time in the fourteenth general election held in 2004, to 48.74%.  This was the time when it was realised that efforts were needed to create awareness among visitors about the importance of voting.  

The first-ever National Voters’ Day was celebrated on January 25, 2011, to encourage more young voters to take part in the electoral process. The then Union government, led by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, approved a proposal of the law ministry to declare a National Voters Day. The then information and broadcasting minister, Ms. Ambika Soni pointed observed that new voters, who attained the age of 18, were showing less interest in getting enrolled in the electoral rolls. To address this issue, the Election Commission decided to launch a nationwide effort to identify all eligible voters who reach the age of 18 on January 1 of each year in all polling stations across India. All such new voters were to be enrolled and given the Electoral Photo Identity Card (EPIC) on January 25 every year.

National Voters Day seems to have had some positive impact. The 16^th general election held in 2014 witnessed 66.40% voting and in the 19^th general election, held in 2019, the voting percentage witnessed a record 66.40%, the highest ever in the history of Indian general elections. This evidences that we must acknowledge that the health of any democracy is directly proportional to the level of civic engagement. The act of casting a vote is not merely a civic duty but a solemn responsibility toward the preservation and enhancement of democratic values. It is through this participation that the true spirit of democracy is upheld.

The appeal to the people of India is a resounding one—to recognize the power they wield as voters and to embrace the responsibility that comes with it. Elections are not just events; they are the mechanisms through which the collective will of the people finds expression. In every vote cast, lies the potential to shape policies, influence governance, and contribute to the larger narrative of the nation.

On this National Voters Day, let us pledge to be conscientious citizens, mindful of the impact our choices can have on the trajectory of our country. Let the ballot box be our voice, and let our collective voice resonate with the principles of justice, equality, and progress. Each vote is a stepping stone towards a more inclusive and prosperous India.

As we celebrate National Voters Day, let us not only recognize the importance of our voting rights but also pay homage to the remarkable journey that transformed India from a British colony to a sovereign republic. The struggles of the past serve as a poignant reminder of the responsibilities we bear as citizens to uphold the principles enshrined in our constitution.

On this occasion, let us renew our commitment to the values of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity that form the bedrock of our republic. May each vote cast be a tribute to the spirit of democracy that defines the essence of our great nation.

Images: Courtesy  Internet 

 Jai Hind. Long live Indian Democracy and the people of India.

 

 

127th Birth anniversary of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose : Relatively an Unsung Hero

Today, 23rd January 2024, marks the 127th birth anniversary of the par excellence freedom fighter, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose who was born on 23rd January 1897 in Cuttack, Orissa to the illustrious parents - an affluent and successful lawyer Janakinath Bose, and Prabhavati Devi, daughter of Anandamohan Bosu, a prominent businessman in Cuttack. During the 125th birth anniversary, in addition to announcing the commemoration of this day, befittingly, as the Parakram Diwas – in recognition of the quintessential Parakram attributes of Netaji and his extraordinary daring pursuits for the freedom of our nation – Shri Narendra Modi, the Prime Minister of India, had unveiled a hologram statue of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose at the India Gate and had announced that a grand statue of Netaji will be installed at the India Gate “as a symbol of India’s indebtedness to him”. 

Befittingly, as we celebrate the 127th birth anniversary of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose today, a jet-black granite statue of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, measuring about 9 meters tall and weighing some 65 Metric Tonnes, has been installed at the historic India gate canopy. Interestingly, the giant statue of Netaji was sculpted by the very sculptor – Arun Yogiraj, who is now in the national news for sculpting the Ram Lalla idol, which was consecrated with the Pran Pratishtha Ceremony, by the honorable Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, at Ayodhya, yesterday.  The 41-year-old sculptor, Arun Yogi Raj, belongs to a family of five generations of sculptors. He was – perhaps - chosen to sculpt the idol of Ram Lalla, which unfolded its profound beauty in Ayodhya yesterday, primarily because of the highly appreciated sculpting capability that he had demonstrated in sculpting the 30 feet statue of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose installed in the canopy behind the Amar Jawan Jyoti at the India Gate in New Delhi.

 

The statue of Netaji, standing majestically tall, commemorates the pivotal role played by Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose, one of the most iconic and influential leaders, who played a significant role in the Indian freedom struggle. Netaji’s role and his militaristic approach in attaining independence for India though were diametrically opposite to the Gandhian way, it must be recognised that this was one of the prime reasons for India gaining independence from British Rule. Netaji’s granite statue at the India Gate will help us all - fellow Indians – to remember his contributions to the Indian Independence struggle, which will be etched in the annals of Indian history. It is so very providential that the very artist – Arun Yogi Raj - who was chosen to sculpt the historic statue of Netaji for commissioning at the India Gate was commissioned to sculpt the Ram Lalla idol. It appears that Yogi Raj, the sculptor hailing from Karnataka, has been gifted with this god-gifted artistic sculpting talent from the legendary sculptor, Jakanachari, who hails from Karnataka. The legend of Jakanachari - who is aptly given the epithet “Amara Shilpi” - as a sculptor par excellence is larger than life, which is evidenced in several temples with fine sculptures seen in the temples of the Kalyani Chalukyas and Hoysalas.

 

The grand statue of Netaji, carved by Yogi Raj stands tall in the Indian Gate Canopy, which has been carved from a monolithic block of granite that weighed around 280 MT. Several craftsmen and artists, under the leadership of Yogi Raj, have worked with passion putting in “26,000-man hours of intense artistic endeavour” in chiselling to produce the statue of Netaji, which weighs around 65 MT. True to the age-old Indian traditions of crafting and sculpting the best of statues by sculptors like Jakanachari, the statue of Netaji has been completely hand-sculpted using traditional techniques and modern tools.

 

The scale and size of the sculpture of Netaji and the necessity of a special granite monolithic block to sculpt it ensured that the granite block had to be transported on a specially designed 100 feet long truck with 140 wheels, which had carried the monolithic granite stone on a journey of more than 1600 plus km from Khammam in Telangana to New Delhi.

Today as we celebrate the 127th birth anniversary of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose, we must bow down in reverence to this great son of India who sacrificed what would have been a lucrative ICS career, in service of our motherland. All through his life, Netaji dreamt nothing but freedom for the nation, and in the process, he may have chosen a path, that may not appear to be the right way for some, but then it must be remembered that his aim was like that of the legendary Arjuna’s aim, which was to get independence for India from the colonial rule of the monster rulers – the British - at any cost and that too for the Akhand Bharat and not the India that we now recognise.  It is from this position that we must recognise his path of divergence from Gandhi. It is this path for freedom for India that manifested in the formation of the Azad Hind Force, aligning with Japan to confront the British. Bose's commitment to an unfocused objective of India's freedom demonstrated his unyielding spirit and perhaps it is the fear of this spirit which helped in India get the freedom

 

On this occasion it is apt to recall that historic speech of Netaji, where he spoke those immemorable words ' Give me your blood, I will give you freedom' and motivated thousands of his fellow countrymen - the Indian National Army. Netaji’s appeal motivated thousands of his fellow countrymen, the Indian National Army, to fight selflessly for Indian freedom, most unfortunately the INA and the people who fought under its banner, get only a footnote mention while speaking of our struggle for independence. History and as a corollary all of us have been unfair to Subhash Chandra Bose and his men, but then fortunately, though late, his statue standing tall on the ramparts of the Kartavya Path has made amends and etched his contributions in the annals of Indian history and ensured that he and his extraordinary unsung heroes - his fellow INA members and the Azad Hind Force - continue to be remembered and revered by this indebted nation, even as Bose's controversial death in an air crash adds intrigue to his legacy. The circumstances surrounding his death continue to be a subject of debate and scrutiny. As the narrative evolves, there's a growing acknowledgment of the need to delve deeper into Bose's life, acknowledging both his extraordinary contributions and the mysteries surrounding his demise.

Here are some highlights of contributions by Netaji.

 

Netaji formed the Forward Bloc, on 3^rd May 1939, in Makur, Unnao, after parting ways with the Congress. He resigned from the presidency of the Indian National Congress on 29 April after being outmaneuvered by those who were inimical to the growing stature of Netaji in Congress. His main focus was advocating for a more aggressive approach toward attaining independence. This marked a pivotal moment in his quest for a stronger, united India.

 

He established the Azad Hind Radio, which he used effectively to broadcast messages of inspiration and motivation to the Indian masses, fostering a sense of unity and determination during the freedom struggle.

 

He founded the Indian National Army (INA) in 1942. This was one of his most significant contributions and his army contingent comprised of Indian prisoners of war and civilians.  INA played a crucial role in challenging British rule, particularly in the context of the Burma Campaign. Unfortunately, due to politics, the contributions of the INA and how it helped expedite India's attaining freedom from the British have been completely overlooked at worst and brushed under the carpet at worst.

 

Netaji proclaimed the establishment of the Azad Hind Government in Singapore in 1943, reflecting his commitment to providing an alternative administrative structure for a free India. He visited the South Andaman district in 1943. On December 30th, 1943, Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose, the Supreme Commander of the Azad Hind, created a historic moment by hoisting the Indian National Flag for the first time on the soil of Port Blair.

 

Under Bose's leadership, the INA participated in the Battle of Imphal in 1944, a significant military engagement against the British forces. Though the INA ultimately withdrew, the battle demonstrated the strength and determination of Bose's forces.

 

Netaji established the Rani of Jhansi Regiment, an all-women combat unit within the INA, challenging traditional gender roles and showcasing his progressive vision for an independent India.

 

He actively sought international support for India's cause, forging alliances with countries like Germany and Japan. His diplomatic efforts aimed to garner backing for the Indian independence movement on the global stage.

 

 

Images: Courtesy Wikipedia

 

Long live Netaji and his INA compatriots in the hearts and minds of Indians.

 

Celebrating the Birth Anniversary of Stephen Hawking: A Legacy of Resilience, Determination and Scientific Brilliance

It was on this day 8 January 1942, that Stephen Hawking, a scientist whose enduring image has been etched in the annals of human history that will continue to live on in the hearts and minds of people, was born in Oxford, UK. Today as we celebrate the 82nd birth anniversary of Hawking, it is pertinent to remember him for leaving behind an indelible mark on the world of science. The world over Hawking will be eternally remembered as an enduring symbol of resilience and indomitable determination. Diagnosed with a rare Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) disorder at the age of 21, Hawking faced immense physical and neurological challenges, including confinement to a wheelchair and loss of speech and movement. However, his unwavering spirit and unyielding willpower propelled him to overcome these obstacles and redefine the boundaries of scientific exploration.

Stephen William Hawking, was not one of those precocious children who was destined to be famous from the word go. Rather, Hawking didn't excel in school as a child. It was only after he entered college that he started enjoying his subject and got immersed in his studies. While pursuing his PhD in cosmology at the University of Cambridge, Hawking was diagnosed with the rare ALS disorder. By then he had already noticed that he was getting clumsy and had even fallen once or twice for no apparent reason. His father then took him to the family doctor to ascertain the reasons for his unnatural fall and clumsiness, where he was diagnosed as suffering from ALS.

It was in 1971, when the young physicist, Stephen Hawking, proposed a groundbreaking concept known as the "Area Theorem," an idea rooted in Einstein's General Theory of Relativity. This theorem laid the foundation for understanding the nature of black holes and their behaviour concerning the area of their event horizons and it set off a series of fundamental insights about black hole mechanics. The experimental validation of this theorem took an unexpected turn in 2015 with the historic detections made by the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO).

Stephen Hawking's Area Theorem, which became an integral component of his research on black holes, postulates that the total area of the event horizons of black holes can never decrease over time. The event horizon is the boundary beyond which nothing, not even light, can escape the gravitational pull of the black hole. This is what makes black holes one of the most known scientific terms with little understanding of what it is, in terms of science and its understanding. Hawking’s theorem aligns with the second law of thermodynamics, suggesting an intriguing connection between the physics of black holes and thermodynamic principles. Hawking's work extended Einstein’s General Theory of Relativity, introducing new perspectives on black hole dynamics. According to the Area Theorem, as black holes merge or interact, the collective area of their event horizons should not diminish, affirming a fundamental aspect of the thermodynamic behaviour of black holes.

The Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO) made history in 2015 by detecting gravitational waves emanating from the collision of two black holes. This groundbreaking observation not only confirmed a major prediction of Einstein's theory but also provided a unique opportunity to explore the implications of Hawking's Area Theorem. As the two black holes spiralled inwards and eventually merged, they created ripples in spacetime, propagating as gravitational waves. LIGO's precise instruments detected these waves, offering a wealth of information about the binary black hole systems. The observations also provided an indirect validation of the Area Theorem, as the combined area of the event horizons in the final merged black hole should not be less than the sum of the individual black holes' areas before the collision.

Hawking's contributions to theoretical physics, particularly in the fields of cosmology and black holes, are nothing short of revolutionary. Beyond his scientific achievements, Stephen Hawking emerged as a symbol of hope for differently-abled individuals around the globe. His life story exemplified the triumph of the human spirit over physical limitations. Hawking's resilience in the face of adversity resonated with countless people, fostering a sense of empowerment and proving that the human mind knows no bounds, even when the body does.

One of Hawking's most enduring legacies is his best-selling book, "A Brief History of Time." This masterpiece brought complex scientific concepts to a broader audience, captivating readers with the wonders of the cosmos. The book's success not only solidified Hawking's status as a brilliant scientist but also positioned him as a communicator who could bridge the gap between the scientific community and the general public. Published in 1988, this book aimed to make complex topics like black holes, the nature of time, and the origin of the universe accessible to the general public. It became an international phenomenon, selling millions of copies and staying on bestseller lists for an extended period. In the book, Hawking skilfully combined scientific insights with engaging prose, offering readers a glimpse into the mysteries of the cosmos without compromising on intellectual rigor. The book's success not only brought widespread recognition to Hawking but also played a pivotal role in popularizing science and inspiring a new generation of enthusiasts.

Stephen Hawking passed away on March 14, 2018. Appended below is a link to my tribute paid to Stephen Hawking on my Facebook on his passing away. His frail yet indefatigable appearance stuck to the wheelchair with his characteristic voice synthesised speech, will surely be missed by hundreds of thousands of his admirers all across the globe. And for the innumerable differently abled and their caregivers, for whom he continued to be a shining star of hope and aspirations, his death means the star has collapsed into a black hole creating an unconquerable vacuum.

Incidentally just two years after the passing away of Hawking, the coveted Nobel Prize for Physics for the year 2020, was awarded half to Roger Penrose for showing how black holes could form and half to Reinhard Genzel and Andrea Ghez for discovering a supermassive object at the Milky Way’s center.

Long live Stephen Hawking.

27 December & ‘Jana Gana Mana": The National Anthem of Unity and Identity in India

27 December holds a special significance for us since it happens to be the birthday of my wife and therefore I was wondering how could I make it special  this year. This thought helped me to dig into history to try and resonate this day as something special. This led me to the understanding of the historical significance of this day for India. It was on this day, 27 December 1911, that for the first time “Jana Gana Mana", which was later to become our national anthem, was sung during the Indian National Congress session in Calcutta (now Kolkata). 

India's national anthem, "Jana Gana Mana," penned and composed by the legendary poet Rabindranath Tagore (https://khened.blogspot.com/2020/05/rabindrnaath-tagore-tribute-to-polymath.html)

is not merely a song or an exceptional piece of poetry; it is an embodiment of the nation's rich cultural tapestry and a hymn that resonates with the collective spirit of the people of India. The journey of this profound anthem, from its inception to its establishment as the national song, showcases the deep connection it shares with the people of India.

Although "Jana Gana Mana" was first sung on December 27, 1911, during the Indian National Congress session in Calcutta (now Kolkata), little did Tagore know that his composition would go on to become an integral part of India's national identity and that it will be adopted as the national anthem. The true recognition of "Jana Gana Mana" as the national anthem came after a long debate in the Constituent Assembly of India, which officially adopted it as the national anthem when the Republic of India was proclaimed - 26 January 1950. The adoption of this anthem was not just a formal acknowledgment; it was a declaration of the values and diversity that bind the nation together.

The impact of "Jana Gana Mana" goes beyond its melodious tune and eloquent lyrics. The anthem encompasses verses in praise of India's diverse geography, cultures, and people, fostering a sense of unity in its diversity. It is a celebration of the spirit that transcends regional, linguistic, and religious boundaries, making it a poignant representation of the composite culture of India.

The anthem's connect with the people is evident in its widespread acceptance and participation during national events, school assemblies, and public gatherings. This was evidenced when the world witnessed that extraordinary moment, which unfolded during the India Pakistan World Cup Cricket match in Ahmedabad. A massive gathering of over 100,000 people in the crowd were seen singing with extreme pride the national anthem along with the Indian team. The video capturing the collective rendition of "Jana Gana Mana" serves as a unifying force, instilling a sense of pride and patriotism among Indians and therefore it was no wonder that it went viral across social media platforms. It exhibited the power of the national anthem to evoke strong emotions, symbolizing the shared history, struggles, and triumphs of the nation. 

"Jana Gana Mana" has become a cultural icon, weaving itself into the fabric of India's national consciousness. Its verses capture the essence of India's journey towards independence and its ongoing pursuit of unity, justice, and liberty. The anthem is not merely a musical composition; it is a living testament to the resilience and unity of the Indian people.

Rabindranath Tagore's "Jana Gana Mana" stands as a timeless anthem that transcends time and space, resonating with the hearts of millions. From its humble origins to its status as the national anthem, the song has left an indelible mark on the collective identity of India. Its impact lies in its ability to evoke a sense of pride and unity, making it a cherished and revered symbol that unites the diverse tapestry of the nation. 

This post is a birthday gift to my wife, who turns 55 today, which costs cipher and stands a sure chance to be dimmed in the light of other possible materialistic gifts she is sure to receive from her father and siblings. Hailing from the rustic background - and that too from the state of north Karnataka - I grew up in an ambience where modern style ostentatious celebrations of birthdays with cutting of birthday cakes etc. were non starters and even if celebrated, it was a visit to a temple followed by seeking blessings from parents and elders and that tradition I have continued when it comes to celebrating my birthday. 

May our national anthem continue to unite us and help us celebrate the grandness of this vast and diverse nation which is poised to regain its supremacy in the comity of nations in the decades to come. 

Jai Hind