C.V. Raman: A Biography

by Uma Parameswaran

The compelling story of a trailblazer of modern science In 1921, while on a voyage to England, Chandrasekhara Venkata Raman was amazed by the spectacular blue of the Mediterranean Sea. Seven years of research led to the Raman Effect, an explanation of the molecular diffraction of light that won him the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1930the first non-white and first Asian to be thus honoured. Always a nationalist, Raman strove to win a place for PBI - India in the international arena by mentoring scores of students, many of whom became renowned scientists; he also organized conferences for the promotion of scientific inquiry and founded significant journals. After a long spell at the PBI - Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science and at Calcutta University, and a fruitful tenure at the PBI - Indian Institute of Science as the first PBI - Indian director, he set up the Raman Research Institute in 1948, where his legacy survives to this day. Raman was famous not only for his sharp intellect, but also for his personal charm, abundant vitality and sense of humour. This comprehensive biography details for the first time Ramans growth as an PBI - Individual, taking us through his childhood years, his relationships and his travels. Drawing on interviews, anecdotes, family history and other secondary sources, C.V. Raman gives new insights into one of the greatest minds PBI - India has produced.

Genres: Biography, Science, Indian Literature

296 pages, Paperback

First published October 15, 2011

About the author

Uma Parameswaran is a retired professor of English, University of Winnipeg; has published extensively in the field of postcolonial literatures; and is the author of several works of fiction, poetry and drama, including the award-winning collection, What was Always Hers, and a recent novel, A Cycle of the Moon.

Reviews

[Jitin Singla · Rating 5 out of 5]

Again, one of the best book I ever read. A humble and grounded person, who always thought of India first. True legend in Science lives here among us just 50 years ago. Inspired many. Many students of him did excellent work.

One must read this. Also should be given to every student who wants to pursue science in India.

[Chandra Kant · Rating 4 out of 5]

First detailed scientific biography I have ever read. Provides good insight about the different dimensions of the scientist's life i.e. from science,family, administration to view nation's intellectual heritage and future of it. Two inspirational things I found in this book are: 1. His faith in truth and capability, of himself and people around him, to pursue it (e.g. He refused to join as Palit Professor on the condition of getting an abroad training). 2. Unbroken flow of his scientific research, even at midst so many spine breaking jerks.

[Madhavan Sukumaran · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good narration that pulls one keep reading. However, the proof reading appeared poor (eg. page 191 para 3). This I would highlight, especially in a biography of a physicist who is noted for his perfection.

[Jayesh · Rating 5 out of 5]

The only comprehensive one

[Hemant · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great personality. Simple writing.

[The Balaji · Rating 5 out of 5]

A compelling and page-turning biography about a trailblazer of modern science!

[Anuprita · Rating 3 out of 5]

My first reading in Scientific biography genre. I was doubtful this book would go all technical with scientific jargons but all thanks to the writer anyone can read and enjoy this book. The writer also has successfully maintained a healthy balance between personal and professional life, avoiding too much of technical details. What is also beautifully written is how his wife, Lokasundari Raman, supported him unconditionally all his life never losing faith in him. Some of the stories are truely inspirational like how Mr. C.V Raman would get all engrossed in his experiments and sleep on lab tables at times to save time travelling home, how he never let his focus waiver in spite of the 3 long yrs of wait for his Nobel, his undying love for science & his country and how often he would render people speechless with his wit.. He would equally love to appreciate art and nature too.

Definitely a goodread!