Dr. Homi Jahangir Bhabha's return to India post-World War II, defiance of his parents’ wishes, and vision for atomic energy were pivotal for India's nuclear aspirations. Without his contributions, India’s scientific progress, including space research, would have been significantly delayed. On his 59th death anniversary, we honor his legacy as the Father of Indian Nuclear Programme.
Physics Photo Of the Day: (L-R) Physicists Albert Einstein, Hideki Yukawa, John Wheeler, and Homi J. Bhabha in conversation as they walk through Marquand Park in Princeton, New Jersey, ca. 1954. | Pinterest
Early Life Of Dr. Bhabha
Homi Jehangir Bhabha, regarded as the father of India's nuclear programme, was instrumental in establishing the nation as a responsible nuclear power shortly after gaining independence. Born in a wealthy family in Mumbai in 1909, Bhabha pursued physics at Cambridge University despite his father's wish for him to study mechanical engineering.
Bhabha with CV Raman and Vikram Sarabhai |
Returning to India before World War II, he joined the Indian Institute of Science under Nobel laureate C.V. Raman and established the Cosmic Ray Research Unit in 1944. Bhabha, with TATA's assistance, founded the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research in 1945 and the Trombay Atomic Energy Establishment in 1954, both critical to India's nuclear advancement.
Dr. Homi Bhabha with Jawaharlal Nehru | Pinterest
After India’s independence, Bhabha was offered a governmental position but opted to serve as a scientific advisor to Prime Ministers Jawaharlal Nehru and Lal Bahadur Shastri.
Dr. Homi Bhabha with Lal Bahadur Shastri | Pinterest
His advocacy for investment in nuclear technology proved pivotal, as he foresaw atomic energy's crucial role in India's industrial growth. Tragically, Bhabha died in a mysterious plane crash on January 24, 1966.
His visionary insights highlighted the importance of nuclear power, which resonated globally, as many countries were encouraged to invest in this vital energy source. Homi Jehangir Bhabha’s legacy endures as a pioneer of India's nuclear journey and scientific advancement.
