The Ministry of Culture recently celebrated the 164th birth anniversary of Jagdish Chandra Bose by organizing an international conference titled “Contributions of J C Bose: A Satyagrahi Scientist.” This article delves into the life, education, and significant contributions of this multifaceted scientist who changed the way we perceive plants and laid the foundation for wireless communication.
Biography of Jagadish Chandra Bose
Jagadish Chandra Bose was born on November 30, 1858, to Bama Sundari Bose and Bhagawan Chandra in Bengal. He emerged as a renowned plant physiologist and physicist known for inventing the crescograph—an innovative device that measures the growth of plants. He was one of the pioneering scientists who proposed the revolutionary concept that plants, like humans and animals, have feelings.
Academic Achievements
Bose’s educational journey started with earning a Bachelor of Science degree from University College London, which was tied to the University of London, in 1883. His thirst for knowledge led him to the University of Cambridge, where he received his Bachelor of Arts degree in Natural Sciences Tripos in 1884.
Scientific Contributions: The Versatile Genius
Bose’s remarkable achievements are manifold. Being a biologist, physicist, botanist, and science fiction writer, he made significant advancements in several scientific fields. The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineering credits Bose as the Father of Radio Science, acknowledging his discovery of wireless communication.
His tireless efforts paved the way for the expansion of experimental science in India. Moreover, Bengali science fiction owes its origin to Bose. In tribute to his invaluable contributions, a moon crater is named after him.
Bose Institute: The Pillar of Interdisciplinary Research in Asia
Bose founded the Bose Institute—one of the oldest and premier research institutes in India—in 1917. The institute was the first interdisciplinary research center established in Asia, fostering knowledge and discoveries across various scientific disciplines.
Bose served as its Director from the time of foundation until his death, ensuring the institute remained at the forefront of scientific research. His passion for exploring the mysteries of nature led him to construct automatic recorders that could register incredibly minor movements. This instrument revealed astonishing results, such as the trembling of injured plants, substantiating Bose’s theory about the existence of feelings in plants.
Publication Works
Bose authored numerous books, including “Response in the Living and Non-Living” (1902) and “The Nervous Mechanism of Plants” (1926). These works played a crucial role in elucidating his groundbreaking theories and scientific investigations to other scholars and the general public.
Death: The End of an Era
This illustrious icon breathed his last on November 23, 1937, in Giridih, Bihar. His demise marked the end of a remarkable era of scientific innovation and discovery. However, his legacy continues to inspire scientists and researchers worldwide, perpetuating his spirit of relentless curiosity and innovation. Even today, his contributions shape modern science, making Bose one of the most influential figures in the world of science.