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Vikram Sarabhai: A Life
Vikram Sarabhai (1919-71), the renaissance man of Indian science, thought up the impossible and often made it happen. Founder of India's space programme (ISRO), Vikram dreamed of communication satellites that would educate people at a time when even a modest rocket programme seemed daring; of huge agricultural complexes serviced by atomic power and desalinated sea water. He envisioned research technology that would free Indian industry from foreign dependence, and of a world-class management college that would train managers for the public sector. Between 1947 and 1971, he built a thriving pharmaceutical business, conducted research into cosmic rays, headed the Atomic Energy Commission; set up India's first textile research cooperative, ATIRA, the first market research organization, ORG, the Indian Institute of Management in Ahmedabad (IIM-A) and the dance academy Darpana. Handsome, charismatic, married to pioneering classical dancer Mrinalini Sarabhai and closely associated with the most influential figures of his time—everyone from C.V. Raman and Jawaharlal Nehru to Bruno Rossi, Louis Kahn and John Rockefeller III—Vikram led what seemed like a charmed existence. Yet, his personal life was troubled and his strong resistance to India's move towards a nuclear explosion in the late 1960s put him at odds with powerful lobbies and fellow technologists.
In this vivid and intimate account, Amrita Shah delves into the life and mind of a fascinating, complex individual, a multifaceted genius who died young, but whose vision still drives India's ambitious space programme—and continues to inspire India today.
In this vivid and intimate account, Amrita Shah delves into the life and mind of a fascinating, complex individual, a multifaceted genius who died young, but whose vision still drives India's ambitious space programme—and continues to inspire India today.
264 pages, Paperback
Published June 16, 2016
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
August 4, 2021
It is no wonder that Dr. Vikram Sarabhai commands so much respect, not limited to science fraternity, decades after his death even by later generations who has very limited knowledge of his contributions to nation building.
Amrita Shah, in her book, has provided a rounded view of the tall personality that Dr. Sarabhai was and how much what we have today as a modern progressive India is due to his visionary and untiring efforts.
Dr. Sarabhai didn't succeed in a path-breaking scientific discovery that could have won him the Nobel Prize but he achieved so much for his country in his short life that no award could do justice to the man that he was.
I was just exhausted reading all the projects he was working on at any given time. I have to periodically take a pause and check which year the author was talking about and what all he was working on in that year to get them straight into my head.
Dr. Sarabhai was a nationalist who was focused on building a self sufficient modern India post-independence than any personal achievements. He was a humanitarian whose aim was to apply scientific research to the betterment of the society. He was a great leader who had the knack of identifying talent and nurture them who can in turn achieve greater heights and groom more leaders for the morrow. His sense of right and wrong which was a legacy of Sarabhai family only brings wonder to one's mind.
As we are approaching fifty years since he passed away I think the best way to honor him would be to analyze as a nation generally and the sectors, industries, institutions specifically that owe their birth and progress to his ideas; and see if we are where he was leading us to or do we need some course correction to go even beyond his imagination.
Amrita Shah, in her book, has provided a rounded view of the tall personality that Dr. Sarabhai was and how much what we have today as a modern progressive India is due to his visionary and untiring efforts.
Dr. Sarabhai didn't succeed in a path-breaking scientific discovery that could have won him the Nobel Prize but he achieved so much for his country in his short life that no award could do justice to the man that he was.
I was just exhausted reading all the projects he was working on at any given time. I have to periodically take a pause and check which year the author was talking about and what all he was working on in that year to get them straight into my head.
Dr. Sarabhai was a nationalist who was focused on building a self sufficient modern India post-independence than any personal achievements. He was a humanitarian whose aim was to apply scientific research to the betterment of the society. He was a great leader who had the knack of identifying talent and nurture them who can in turn achieve greater heights and groom more leaders for the morrow. His sense of right and wrong which was a legacy of Sarabhai family only brings wonder to one's mind.
As we are approaching fifty years since he passed away I think the best way to honor him would be to analyze as a nation generally and the sectors, industries, institutions specifically that owe their birth and progress to his ideas; and see if we are where he was leading us to or do we need some course correction to go even beyond his imagination.
June 29, 2019
It is an amazing book about the life of a remarkable person!
I must confess, reading about Dr. Vikram Sarabhai, I felt overwhelmed. There is only little a person can do in his life but Dr. Sarabhai packed multiple lifetimes of work and contribution towards this nation in his short life. He will live on forever in the institutions and organizations that he created and helped create, and a culture of science for development that he set in motion in the ephemeral period he lived for post-Indian independence. It was a book that demanded to be written and the author did an amazing job. For anyone interested in the life of Dr. Vikram and to learn about the humble beginning of India's Space and Atomic Energy program, this book is a must-read.
I must confess, reading about Dr. Vikram Sarabhai, I felt overwhelmed. There is only little a person can do in his life but Dr. Sarabhai packed multiple lifetimes of work and contribution towards this nation in his short life. He will live on forever in the institutions and organizations that he created and helped create, and a culture of science for development that he set in motion in the ephemeral period he lived for post-Indian independence. It was a book that demanded to be written and the author did an amazing job. For anyone interested in the life of Dr. Vikram and to learn about the humble beginning of India's Space and Atomic Energy program, this book is a must-read.
August 6, 2016
This book gives an incredible insight into the mind of Vikram Sarabhai and how his long term vision helped setup some of the finest institutions and initiate the space research programme of India. His great contribution to the nuclear programme of India at BARC was something I was unaware of before reading the book, and his stand on nuclear policy is very interesting.
The only negative I find is that the flow is too haphazard and at times it feels like you are running from one topic to another.
The only negative I find is that the flow is too haphazard and at times it feels like you are running from one topic to another.
March 2, 2022
I read this book after watching Rocket Boys on SonyLiv. Although it is a remarkably well made show, given the lousy track record of us Indians in producing Biopics, it has taken a lot of creative liberties in order to make the story compelling for the OTT audience. But reading the book and knowing the person Vikram Sarabhai was, I would go back and downgrade the ratings of the show. Because the real life of the person was so dramatic that no creative liberties needed to be taken. As someone wise has said, 'Reality is more fascinating than fiction'.
August 19, 2020
I remember reading this during my depression years- it remains one of the best memories from my year at Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore.
December 8, 2020
Engaging and exciting read about India’s finest scientist, engineer cum visionary - Dr.Vikram Sarabhai. Amrita Shah has produced a thoroughly researched, well written biography of Sarabhai that deserves to be read for the sake of both - her writing prowess and for the content, i.e Sarabhai’s life. Her credentials are well established in the very first leaf of the book, and she lives up to it. Her command on the flow keeps one engaged and get engulfed in Sarabhai’s life. We feel as if we have an bird’s eye view of his life, through space and time, upon reading the book. Tons of books, speeches, interviews, documentaries, are churned to produce this short, crisp, detailed biography on Sarabhai’s life. As I always maintain, this book ticks the essential criteria for being an awesome book - simply because there is a tone of follow-on reading pointed to. An unbiased objective view is presented in this narration despite the stature that is presented of Sarabhai makes one feel he deserves a huge fan following and blind worshipping (cue in Musk..)
I was aware of Vikram Sarabhai from young age as he has been frequently referred to as the father of the space program in India. Yet very little have I read about him. The true magnitude of influence and impact he had on Indian space program was touched upon, briefly by Nambi Narayanan in his book Ready to Fire. My admiration of Vikram Sarabhai sky rocketed and wanted to read more. Thanks to reddit, I was informed about this excellent biography on Vikram Sarabhai. Reading through this was an enjoyable journey. No time is wasted on silly things; a focused writing solely concentrating on Sarabhi’s life is undertaken by the author.
Within a couple of pages we are introduced to the list of institution Vikram Sarabhai has went on to build and the list is humongous. We get a glimpse of his city, his ancestors and parents, which sets the mood for the boundary conditions into which this legendary man was born into. Indeed it’s fairly clear from the onset that he was born with silver spoons. But the way his parents schooled their kids, which is explained in detail, exposes the fact that Sarabhai clan is no bunch of wasted brats. With riches come connections and the freedom struggle of the 1930s-40s brought in the influential political family of Nehru’s to Sarabhai. Vikram over the course of his life time, both as head of space program and atomic energy department, would g on to make fruitful use of these political links for the betterment of nation. Connections to Tagore, Tatas, and many more prominent figures in early period of independent India goes on to show Sarabhai’s status - economically and socially. Interesting to learn that Nobel Laurate Rabindranath Tagore gave the recommendation letter for Vikram Sarabhai for his admission to Cambridge and his doctorate advisor was another Nobel Laurate sir C.V. Raman. Vikram Sarabhi matures swiftly to form a string of institutions, including IIM-A. The latter brings on an interesting yet unfortunate changes in his personal life. Rockets are launched, international collaboration forged, personal family businesses expanded, and eventually heads the atomic energy department, where he has to navigate the tough seas involving a confluence of politics and atom bomb.
The 200 odd page long book ends rather ironically with a meager 4 page long chapter on his death. Yet Amrita Shah manages to make one choke up; I certainly did. It’s a simple yet powerful ending which leaves one in a somber mood, akin to the last day of Sarabhi.
A must read book which thoroughly inspires one to do good with the tools at our disposal. Vikram Sarabhai tried his best to do the same. With powerful tools he indeed did leave a powerful mark on the nation.
One of my favourite quotes from the book - “One wants permissive individuals who do not have a compelling need to reassure themselves that they are leaders through issuing instructions to other; rather they set an example through their own creativity, love of nature and dedication to what one may call the “scientific method””. He sure is an masterful management guru, and no wonder he ended starting the primier b-school of the country.
One more - “The early beginnings of any institution are crucial, and the “culture” (othe lack of it) brought by the first entrants plays a significant role in establishing norms, procedures and practices”
I was aware of Vikram Sarabhai from young age as he has been frequently referred to as the father of the space program in India. Yet very little have I read about him. The true magnitude of influence and impact he had on Indian space program was touched upon, briefly by Nambi Narayanan in his book Ready to Fire. My admiration of Vikram Sarabhai sky rocketed and wanted to read more. Thanks to reddit, I was informed about this excellent biography on Vikram Sarabhai. Reading through this was an enjoyable journey. No time is wasted on silly things; a focused writing solely concentrating on Sarabhi’s life is undertaken by the author.
Within a couple of pages we are introduced to the list of institution Vikram Sarabhai has went on to build and the list is humongous. We get a glimpse of his city, his ancestors and parents, which sets the mood for the boundary conditions into which this legendary man was born into. Indeed it’s fairly clear from the onset that he was born with silver spoons. But the way his parents schooled their kids, which is explained in detail, exposes the fact that Sarabhai clan is no bunch of wasted brats. With riches come connections and the freedom struggle of the 1930s-40s brought in the influential political family of Nehru’s to Sarabhai. Vikram over the course of his life time, both as head of space program and atomic energy department, would g on to make fruitful use of these political links for the betterment of nation. Connections to Tagore, Tatas, and many more prominent figures in early period of independent India goes on to show Sarabhai’s status - economically and socially. Interesting to learn that Nobel Laurate Rabindranath Tagore gave the recommendation letter for Vikram Sarabhai for his admission to Cambridge and his doctorate advisor was another Nobel Laurate sir C.V. Raman. Vikram Sarabhi matures swiftly to form a string of institutions, including IIM-A. The latter brings on an interesting yet unfortunate changes in his personal life. Rockets are launched, international collaboration forged, personal family businesses expanded, and eventually heads the atomic energy department, where he has to navigate the tough seas involving a confluence of politics and atom bomb.
The 200 odd page long book ends rather ironically with a meager 4 page long chapter on his death. Yet Amrita Shah manages to make one choke up; I certainly did. It’s a simple yet powerful ending which leaves one in a somber mood, akin to the last day of Sarabhi.
A must read book which thoroughly inspires one to do good with the tools at our disposal. Vikram Sarabhai tried his best to do the same. With powerful tools he indeed did leave a powerful mark on the nation.
One of my favourite quotes from the book - “One wants permissive individuals who do not have a compelling need to reassure themselves that they are leaders through issuing instructions to other; rather they set an example through their own creativity, love of nature and dedication to what one may call the “scientific method””. He sure is an masterful management guru, and no wonder he ended starting the primier b-school of the country.
One more - “The early beginnings of any institution are crucial, and the “culture” (othe lack of it) brought by the first entrants plays a significant role in establishing norms, procedures and practices”
October 21, 2025
In the vein of Gandhi, Nehru, and Patel, who led India’s freedom struggle, lay another challenge just as vital for the young republic — survival. This is where visionaries like Vikram Sarabhai and Homi Bhabha stepped in, building remarkable institutions that harnessed the transformative power of science to uplift a nation.
Sarabhai was India’s Renaissance Man. He founded PRL, IIM Ahmedabad, and ISRO, to name a few. In Vikram Sarabhai: A Life, Amrita Shah paints a portrait of a man whose energy and intellect seem almost superhuman. From managing the family’s chemical business to shaping India’s space program, Sarabhai juggled responsibilities with grace. His greatest strength, however, lay in his humility — his ability to share credit and work with those more qualified than himself, turning skeptics into believers.
Shah’s book is a deep dive into an extraordinary mind and a nation in the making. It’s a must-read for anyone interested in building lasting institutions or simply looking for inspiration to do great work with grace and vision.
Sarabhai was India’s Renaissance Man. He founded PRL, IIM Ahmedabad, and ISRO, to name a few. In Vikram Sarabhai: A Life, Amrita Shah paints a portrait of a man whose energy and intellect seem almost superhuman. From managing the family’s chemical business to shaping India’s space program, Sarabhai juggled responsibilities with grace. His greatest strength, however, lay in his humility — his ability to share credit and work with those more qualified than himself, turning skeptics into believers.
Shah’s book is a deep dive into an extraordinary mind and a nation in the making. It’s a must-read for anyone interested in building lasting institutions or simply looking for inspiration to do great work with grace and vision.
January 26, 2021
The excellent Mission ISRO podcast piqued my interest in Sarabhai's life. This well-written biography introduces readers to the life and work of one of independent India's foremost visionaries, scientific thinkers and institution-builders. Only complaint - ended too soon.
September 29, 2019
Vikram Sarabhai always intrigued me and so has ISRO. Both are synonymous with each other but that is pretty much all I knew about the man behind India's Space Programme. I am glad I read this book because it opened my eyes to one of the greatest Indians to have ever lived. I was left a little sad that despite all his achievements and the institutions he helped set up, he remains an almost forgotten figure in modern Indian history.
When you read the book, his life seems unreal and unbelievable. Some of the things are downright unbelievable but they are true. While political leaders of all sorts are venerated 24x7, the real heroes of India like him and Homi Bhabha are remembered only as mere names of institutes and examinations of various sorts.
When you read the book, his life seems unreal and unbelievable. Some of the things are downright unbelievable but they are true. While political leaders of all sorts are venerated 24x7, the real heroes of India like him and Homi Bhabha are remembered only as mere names of institutes and examinations of various sorts.
January 12, 2021
Most of us born in or after 70s would have heard of Vikram Sarabhai but never got material to know him well.
What’s amazing about this book is a fine balance between his personal details and sometime-more- than- required professional details. One extra star for quality of English and humour.
Also author offers many inspirations from his work - life balance - varying from his habit of twelve surya namaskar, frugal eating to ability to handle conflicts and effective delegation - at so many institutions Vikram Sarabhai was putting up !
Very impressive biography by an Indian on an acclaimed Indian whom I could visualise as a builder of nation and an vulnerable human being.
What’s amazing about this book is a fine balance between his personal details and sometime-more- than- required professional details. One extra star for quality of English and humour.
Also author offers many inspirations from his work - life balance - varying from his habit of twelve surya namaskar, frugal eating to ability to handle conflicts and effective delegation - at so many institutions Vikram Sarabhai was putting up !
Very impressive biography by an Indian on an acclaimed Indian whom I could visualise as a builder of nation and an vulnerable human being.
July 27, 2016
A long-due tribute to a founding father of India, but should spur more..
March 15, 2023
A life journey by reading his notes and talking to his relatives, friends, colleagues and other people who came across the dynamic Vikram Sarabhai forms the heart of the biography.
Reading this will give the reader a clear idea of what kind of person/scientist/art lover among the different masks worn by Vikram Sarabhai.
As a child born with a silver spoon and 5th among the eight children of Ambalal and Sarla Sarabhai, Vikram was curious, intelligent and had started showing his genius side. His family wealth helped him grab many of opportunities and achievements he gathered.
Vikram was always thinking about the good of his country and his countrymen through all his roles while he was a private businessman or when he became a bureaucrat.
A man who gave chance to many new intellectuals who went on to become directors, chairman and held other high offices in the field of science, management and government.
He is created to having thorough understanding of pharmaceuticals, power looms, chemicals, bringing management studies to India in the form of IIM Ahmedabad, apart from his liking of space, physics and later atomic research.
Truly a great personality whose visions helped India grow in many areas, his sudden death as some put because of his highly busy schedule where he rested or slept for hardly a couple of hours.
His wife Mrinalini Sarabhai is famous dancer and their daughter Mallika Sarabhai also a dancer / actor are well known in their own right.
Overall the book helps the reader in understanding the life both personal and professional also his interactions with Homi Bhabha, C V Raman, Indira Gandhi and later people who worked with him like Abdul Kalam, T N Seshan among others.
Reading this will give the reader a clear idea of what kind of person/scientist/art lover among the different masks worn by Vikram Sarabhai.
As a child born with a silver spoon and 5th among the eight children of Ambalal and Sarla Sarabhai, Vikram was curious, intelligent and had started showing his genius side. His family wealth helped him grab many of opportunities and achievements he gathered.
Vikram was always thinking about the good of his country and his countrymen through all his roles while he was a private businessman or when he became a bureaucrat.
A man who gave chance to many new intellectuals who went on to become directors, chairman and held other high offices in the field of science, management and government.
He is created to having thorough understanding of pharmaceuticals, power looms, chemicals, bringing management studies to India in the form of IIM Ahmedabad, apart from his liking of space, physics and later atomic research.
Truly a great personality whose visions helped India grow in many areas, his sudden death as some put because of his highly busy schedule where he rested or slept for hardly a couple of hours.
His wife Mrinalini Sarabhai is famous dancer and their daughter Mallika Sarabhai also a dancer / actor are well known in their own right.
Overall the book helps the reader in understanding the life both personal and professional also his interactions with Homi Bhabha, C V Raman, Indira Gandhi and later people who worked with him like Abdul Kalam, T N Seshan among others.
August 7, 2024
There are rare people who shape the trajectory of history with their vision and the way they look at future. They shape the future of nation not just for decades, but for almost century. Vikram Sarabhai was one of theses rarest of rare human - Scientist ,More than half of dozen institutions builder, father of Indian space research, mentor and true leader, advocate of using technology for socio-economic change, and list is too long..!!
Just audiciously mesmerized with this read. It is not just an biography but account on how modern technology powerd India was built by this man from scratch. The moon crater is named after him is for a reason.
ABSOLUTELY MUST READ..!!
Just audiciously mesmerized with this read. It is not just an biography but account on how modern technology powerd India was built by this man from scratch. The moon crater is named after him is for a reason.
ABSOLUTELY MUST READ..!!
October 13, 2020
Definitely to be read. The book travels through not just his life but also dissects deep into his persona, some of his core beliefs that made him who he was. There are definitely some surprises about him as you read through. At the end, you definitely feel proud of Vikrambhai for his contribution to this great nation, his great vision for the future, and the dedication he showed to make India shine in the world. In a short span of time, he managed to do so much.
Amrita Shah has done some excellent research in putting together this book. BIG THANK YOU to her!!
Amrita Shah has done some excellent research in putting together this book. BIG THANK YOU to her!!
August 29, 2019
5 star because of the subject of the book...sarabhai was a revolution in himself and a guy with outstanding stature who created multiple long living institutions and left this world even before reaching 50...worth a read for sure
April 4, 2021
Vikram sarabhai was one of the architects of modern india . The book brings out his contributions to so many institutions that we are proud of today. Recommended for anyone who wants to learn more about emerging india in years after independence.
October 16, 2022
Biography of Vikram sarabhai is an example of how long term vision led a country to self-sufficiency. Getting to know about his cultural background, personal life is a quite different experience. Relatable to any engineer worked in indigenous projects of Indian Space, Energy & Defence organisations
April 6, 2023
I loved this book, probably because I resonated with Dr. Sarabhai’s vision for making the most of your time here on earth, and with his vast capacity for starting new ventures! A quick read that is well worth your time if you enjoy being inspired to follow your dreams.
June 25, 2025
“We do not have the fantasy of competing with the economically advanced nations in the exploration of the moon or the planets... but we are convinced that we must be second to none in applying technology to solve real problems.”
August 26, 2017
(Take it with a pinch of salt, but) Elon Musk is pretty much Vikram Sarabhai reborn!
An extremely diligently researched and well-executed piece of work.
An extremely diligently researched and well-executed piece of work.
January 14, 2018
Thank you Amrita Shah for writing this one. I am your fan sir. It's sad I didn't get to meet you.
April 5, 2018
A good work. even tough includes some rocket language (obvious), covers his life from almost all corners. But found criticisms also.
January 2, 2020
Good biography.
February 26, 2022
A very well researched biography
June 16, 2023
Atleast she gave it a try. Too many context jumps in the book, not for the my kind of a reader. Maybe because it was not written from the perspective of the man himself.
December 26, 2025
An excellent book on India's great manager, scientist, and businessman. The legendary Sarabhai has been my idol and inspiration right from my school days.
March 5, 2023
This book delves into the life and legacy of Vikram Sarabhai, a man who accomplished so much in his limited time. He was the mastermind behind many of India's most significant institutions, including IIM-A, the National Institute of Design, Physical Research Laboratory, and ISRO, among others.
Sarabhai had an unwavering ambition to use science to propel India forward and ensure its people's well-being. He believed that time was a rubber band that could be stretched to its limits, and he proved this by tirelessly working towards his vision for India.
The author of this book highlights Sarabhai's incredible work ethic and dedication, and his story is sure to inspire readers to put more effort into their own pursuits. Whether you are interested in science, innovation, or simply want to learn from a great Indian leader, this book is a must-read.
Sarabhai had an unwavering ambition to use science to propel India forward and ensure its people's well-being. He believed that time was a rubber band that could be stretched to its limits, and he proved this by tirelessly working towards his vision for India.
The author of this book highlights Sarabhai's incredible work ethic and dedication, and his story is sure to inspire readers to put more effort into their own pursuits. Whether you are interested in science, innovation, or simply want to learn from a great Indian leader, this book is a must-read.
March 21, 2020
The story of the father of India's space programme , the book amply highlights the many hats that Dr.Sarabhai wore in his illustrious career which was unfortunately cut short in its prime . The book is also an insightful look into the social stratum of the elite educated Parsees of British and post independence India , to which Dr . Sarabh
The inspiration for this book having been provided to me by Dr. Kalam in Wings of Fire , I might have approached the book with a bit of positive bias towards Dr. Sarabhai , but at the end of the reading , if anything , his position only got more esteemed in my eyes . Dr. Sarabhai was a man of diverse traits , a man of science who believed in " the education of the senses first " , and married a prominent dancer; the man who then moved away from science into the realms of a then virtually non existent professional management role , laying the foundation of management education in India in the process ; and who ultimately left his biggest legacy as modern India's first and perhaps , till date , most prolific institution builder .
What brings alive Prof Sarabhai is the portrayal of the finer humanistic straits of his character , which are all captured in a glimpse in the cover photo of the book ; that innocuous smile , warm eyes and friendly posture are all further elaborated in the writing in the book . And that is what really endears Dr. Sarabhai to even someone like me , who unfortunately did never get the chance to be contemporaneous with him .
What's really commendable is the man management maturity and awareness that Dr. Sarabhai possessed at a time when even in the the West , Marvin Bower was still building the procession up from scratch at McKinsey . It really speaks about that one single quality of Dr . Sarabhai which ultimately defines him to me , to this day ... farsightedness. Dr. Sarabhai was many things to many people but above all he was a VISIONARY , who dreamt of a better India and in his mild mannered style gave form to his vision in a very realistic manner .
The inspiration for this book having been provided to me by Dr. Kalam in Wings of Fire , I might have approached the book with a bit of positive bias towards Dr. Sarabhai , but at the end of the reading , if anything , his position only got more esteemed in my eyes . Dr. Sarabhai was a man of diverse traits , a man of science who believed in " the education of the senses first " , and married a prominent dancer; the man who then moved away from science into the realms of a then virtually non existent professional management role , laying the foundation of management education in India in the process ; and who ultimately left his biggest legacy as modern India's first and perhaps , till date , most prolific institution builder .
What brings alive Prof Sarabhai is the portrayal of the finer humanistic straits of his character , which are all captured in a glimpse in the cover photo of the book ; that innocuous smile , warm eyes and friendly posture are all further elaborated in the writing in the book . And that is what really endears Dr. Sarabhai to even someone like me , who unfortunately did never get the chance to be contemporaneous with him .
What's really commendable is the man management maturity and awareness that Dr. Sarabhai possessed at a time when even in the the West , Marvin Bower was still building the procession up from scratch at McKinsey . It really speaks about that one single quality of Dr . Sarabhai which ultimately defines him to me , to this day ... farsightedness. Dr. Sarabhai was many things to many people but above all he was a VISIONARY , who dreamt of a better India and in his mild mannered style gave form to his vision in a very realistic manner .
September 11, 2016
This is the story of a man who came to the helm in India's formative days when the fledgling new born nation was writing all books from scratch and trying to weigh its priorities and still vying for a prominent spot in the international diaspora.
Born with silver spoon and yet being grounded and humble, Vikram would done many hats. Scientist, businessman, entrepreneur, administrator and above all the nation builder. The book chronicles the young genius' childhood, unconventional and value ridden up-bringing, involvement in family business, passion and pursuit of science all culminating into an array of institutions and individuals that bless us with their presence in today's time. Perhaps it was science that had brought into him the relevance of collaboration in all endeavors yet he remained and ardent believer in having indigenous efforts and components in whatever he set to do.
Before reading the book I had known him as founder of IIMs and ISRO. It goes deeper than that. It turned out that he had planted many seeds and liked to keep many balls in the air at once. Upon reading the book, one wonders how he could manage so much and yet have time for his family.
The most controversial aspects of his life, in my opinion, was his role in department of atomic energy. While he never advocated openly, the desire of making atomic bomb, he never tried to silence the dissidence arising in his own department on the making of A bomb. Maybe he feared the US backlash that would have on his beloved space program or maybe he wanted to first attain the posture of a martial nation which had the capability of not only making nuclear weapons but also delivering them with a vast array of radars, planes and submarines. Live Nehruvian fashion, he stuck to the role of ambiguity and let the matter drag into political realm from the scientific realm.
His death was peaceful and even in that he left a lesson. He died while on work related tour. He slept peacefully after hectic day's work never to wake up again.
What a life...SALUTE.
Born with silver spoon and yet being grounded and humble, Vikram would done many hats. Scientist, businessman, entrepreneur, administrator and above all the nation builder. The book chronicles the young genius' childhood, unconventional and value ridden up-bringing, involvement in family business, passion and pursuit of science all culminating into an array of institutions and individuals that bless us with their presence in today's time. Perhaps it was science that had brought into him the relevance of collaboration in all endeavors yet he remained and ardent believer in having indigenous efforts and components in whatever he set to do.
Before reading the book I had known him as founder of IIMs and ISRO. It goes deeper than that. It turned out that he had planted many seeds and liked to keep many balls in the air at once. Upon reading the book, one wonders how he could manage so much and yet have time for his family.
The most controversial aspects of his life, in my opinion, was his role in department of atomic energy. While he never advocated openly, the desire of making atomic bomb, he never tried to silence the dissidence arising in his own department on the making of A bomb. Maybe he feared the US backlash that would have on his beloved space program or maybe he wanted to first attain the posture of a martial nation which had the capability of not only making nuclear weapons but also delivering them with a vast array of radars, planes and submarines. Live Nehruvian fashion, he stuck to the role of ambiguity and let the matter drag into political realm from the scientific realm.
His death was peaceful and even in that he left a lesson. He died while on work related tour. He slept peacefully after hectic day's work never to wake up again.
What a life...SALUTE.
February 26, 2020
Worth reading
Dr. Sarabhai as always been an inspiration of mine. Reading this biography gives one a clear look into the minds of one of the most prominent figures in Indian aswell ans international science community.
His vision as been guiding the Indian space program and will continue to do so for years to come. Very few people have such a deep insight into the problems of their time and foresight that spans decades.
Dr. Sarabhai as always been an inspiration of mine. Reading this biography gives one a clear look into the minds of one of the most prominent figures in Indian aswell ans international science community.
His vision as been guiding the Indian space program and will continue to do so for years to come. Very few people have such a deep insight into the problems of their time and foresight that spans decades.
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