Meghnad Saha

This biography is a short yet comprehensive overview of the life of Meghnad Saha, the mastermind behind the frequently used Saha equations and a strong contributor to the foundation of science in India. The author explores the lesser known details behind the man who played a major role in building scientific institutions in India, developed the breakthrough theory of thermal ionization, and whose fervor about India’s rapid progress in science and technology, along with concern for uplifting his countrymen and optimizing resources, led him to eventually enter politics and identify the mismanagement of many programs of national importance to Parliament.

This book is free of most academic technicalities, so that the reader with general scientific knowledge can read and understand it easily. One interested only in Saha’s contribution to physics can pick up just that part and read it. Conversely, the average reader may skip the technical chapters, and read the book withoutloss of continuity or generality to still get a coherent picture. This work touches on all aspects of Saha’s multidimensional personality, which overflows in the pages of his periodical, Science and Culture,as well as his many speeches, debates and discussions in Parliament, all of which is appropriately conveyed in this book.

Introduction.- Science in India: Ancient and Modern.- It Was the Nineteenth Century.- Early Years.- Understanding the Atom.- Saha the Physicist.- Saha's Ionization Formula.- Saha at Allahabad.- Again in Calcutta.- Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics.- National Problems and Social Concern.- Saha and Bhabha.- Saha in Parliament.- Sudden End.- Saha and a Symbol of Excellence.- Epilogue.- References.- Appendices.