C. V. Raman: A Brilliant Mind Who Illuminated the World of Science

C. V. Raman: A Brilliant Mind Who Illuminated the World of Science

• November 10 – World Science Day for Peace and Development

November holds a special place in the history of science. Sir Chandrasekhara Venkata Raman, one of India’s most celebrated scientists, was born on November 7. On November 13, 1930, he was announced as the winner of the Nobel Prize in Physics. He passed away on November 21, 1970. November 10 is observed every year as World Science Day for Peace and Development. These significant dates provide an appropriate opportunity to reflect on the life of C. V. Raman and his invaluable contributions to science.

Raman was born on November 7, 1888, in Tiruchirappalli. From an early age, he demonstrated remarkable academic ability. He secured the first rank in his degree examination at Presidency College, Madras, in 1904 and received a gold medal in Physics. He completed his postgraduate studies in 1907. As opportunities for scientific research were limited at the time, he joined the Indian Finance Department. However, his official responsibilities did not diminish his passion for research. He made use of the facilities at the Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science in Calcutta and continued pursuing his scientific interests.

His appointment as Professor of Physics at the University of Calcutta in 1917 marked a significant turning point in his scientific career. He conducted research in several fields, including the nature of light, acoustics, and the scientific principles behind musical instruments. He was particularly interested in understanding the sounds produced by traditional instruments such as the veena, violin, and mridangam. His work reminds us that even ordinary objects and experiences around us can hold remarkable scientific secrets.

On February 28, 1928, Raman made a significant discovery relating to the scattering of light, with the research assistance of K. S. Krishnan. The discovery demonstrated that a small portion of light scattered by a transparent substance could have a different wavelength from that of the incident light. This finding transformed the study of the interaction between light and matter. The phenomenon subsequently became known as the Raman Effect. A research paper jointly authored by Raman and K. S. Krishnan was published in the journal Nature on March 31, 1928.

In 1930, Raman received the Nobel Prize in Physics for his discovery of the Raman Effect. He became the first Asian to receive a Nobel Prize in a scientific discipline. The award ceremony was held on December 10, 1930. One of the reasons I particularly admire C. V. Raman is that he achieved international recognition through research conducted in India. His life challenges the notion that major scientific breakthroughs are possible only with access to facilities abroad.

On March 31, 1933, Raman became the first Indian Director of the Indian Institute of Science (IISc). He stepped down from the position on July 19, 1937, but continued to serve as a Professor of Physics at the institute until 1948. He also played a leading role in establishing the Indian Academy of Sciences in 1934. The Academy was registered on April 24, 1934, and formally inaugurated on July 31 that year. It made significant contributions to promoting scientific research and encouraging young researchers. In 1948, Raman established the Raman Research Institute in Bengaluru, where he continued his research activities.

Another quality I greatly admire in Raman was his spirit of inquiry. Even an ordinary sight, such as the blue colour of the sea, inspired him to ask scientific questions. During a voyage to Europe in 1921, he observed the striking blue colour of the Mediterranean Sea. This observation inspired his subsequent investigations into the scattering of light. As a teacher, I believe one of the most important lessons from his life is that education should not merely provide students with information; it should also develop their powers of observation and encourage them to ask questions.

The history of science during Raman’s time also reflects the challenges women faced in gaining access to scientific education and research. The episode involving Kamala Sohonie’s admission to the Indian Institute of Science is a notable example. Historical accounts indicate that she initially faced opposition on the grounds of gender and was eventually admitted subject to certain conditions. While celebrating the achievements of a great scientist, it is equally important to understand such incidents in their historical context. The need for equal opportunities for women in scientific education and research remains an important lesson for the present generation.

In 1954, Raman was honoured with the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award. He was among the first three recipients of the honour when it was instituted that year. Chakravarti Rajagopalachari and Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan were the other recipients. The award was a significant recognition of Raman’s outstanding contributions to science and the nation.

Raman passed away on November 21, 1970. However, his discoveries, research institutions, and scientific outlook continue to inspire generations. In India, February 28 is observed every year as National Science Day to commemorate the discovery of the Raman Effect. The occasion reminds us of the importance of scientific inquiry and its contribution to human progress.

Whenever I think of C. V. Raman, I feel deep respect and admiration for him. I have admired him since childhood. His extraordinary intelligence, exceptional powers of observation, and remarkable discoveries have always fascinated me. His contribution to strengthening the foundation of scientific research in India and establishing institutions that encourage scientific inquiry will never be forgotten. His discoveries have remained relevant far beyond his lifetime, and their significance will continue as science advances.

C. V. Raman occupies an honoured place in the history of Indian science. In my view, he remains the greatest scientist and the one I admire most. Whenever I read about him or recall his achievements, I feel proud to be an Indian. His scientific contributions, intellectual brilliance, and spirit of discovery will continue to guide and inspire future generations.

About the Author

V. Rajesh Mohan Rao is a higher secondary commerce teacher from Dharmadam, Thalassery, Kerala, India. He writes about society, culture, language, and personal memories.