JAGDISH CHANDRA BOSE
Sir Jagdish Chandra Bose (1858–1937) was one of India’s greatest scientists, whose work bridged physics, biology, and botany at a time when such interdisciplinary research was unheard of. He was a pioneer who proved that plants are living, sensitive beings, and he laid foundations for modern wireless communication—long before it became mainstream.
Early Life and Education: Jagdish Chandra Bose was born on 30 November 1858 in Mymensingh (now in Bangladesh), then part of British India. His father, Bhagawan Chandra Bose, believed strongly in Indian culture and education. Bose’s early schooling in a vernacular school helped him remain deeply connected to Indian traditions.
He later studied at St. Xavier’s College, Calcutta, under the guidance of Father Eugene Lafont. Bose went on to England, where he studied at Cambridge University, earning degrees in natural sciences.
Contributions to Science:
1) Pioneer of Wireless Communication
Before Guglielmo Marconi became famous for radio transmission, Bose demonstrated wireless communication using microwaves in the 1890s. He invented several instruments, including the mercury coherer, used for detecting radio waves.
Unlike many scientists of his time, Bose refused to patent his inventions, believing that scientific knowledge should benefit humanity freely.
2) Proving That Plants Feel
Bose’s most revolutionary work was in plant physiology. He invented a sensitive instrument called the Crescograph, which could measure tiny movements in plants.
Through experiments, Bose showed that plants: respond to heat, cold, light, noise, and chemicals; experience stress and fatigue; show reactions similar to pain and pleasure
His research challenged the belief that plants were lifeless and earned him international recognition.
Challenges and Recognition: As an Indian scientist under British rule, Bose faced discrimination and skepticism. Initially, he was paid less than his British colleagues. Despite this, his brilliance could not be ignored.
He was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society (FRS) in 1920 and knighted in 1917, after which he became known as Sir Jagdish Chandra Bose.
The Bose Institute: In 1917, Bose founded the Bose Institute in Calcutta, India’s first interdisciplinary research centre. It remains a leading scientific institution today and stands as a testament to his vision of independent scientific research in India.
Legacy: Jagdish Chandra Bose was more than a scientist—he was a thinker, philosopher, and patriot. He proved that Indian minds could lead global science, even during colonial times. His work continues to inspire scientists, environmentalists, and students across the world.
Conclusion: Sir Jagdish Chandra Bose’s life teaches us that true science is driven not by fame or profit, but by curiosity, courage, and compassion for life. By listening to nature and respecting knowledge, he left behind a legacy that still speaks to the modern world.
