Sir Kariamanickam Srinivasa Krishnan (1898–1961):The Scientist and the Man

Quite often these days, one comes across some negative remarks about Indian scientists. It is often discussed and also reported in different media that after J. C. Bose, Srinivasa Ramanujan, C. V. Raman, P. C. Ray, S. N. Bose and M. N. Saha, Indians have failed to make any notable contributions in scientific fields comparable to global standards. There may be some truth in the statement, though not completely. At least in physics, D. M. Bose, S. K. Mitra and K. S. Krishnan are all pioneer scientists in their respective fields. Using indigenously designed and manufactured instruments, meagre funds and little assistance from foreign colonial rulers, they made a mark in the world of science with their path-breaking research. Unfortunately these are almost forgotten names; perhaps vaguely remembered in the scientific community of modern India. They have practically gone into oblivion. It is indeed shameful on our part, that we do not remember their scientific contributions, and also do not show any interest to know about them. This includes the student community as well.