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Vikram Sarabhai: A Life

Amrita Shah

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Vikram Sarabhai (1919??"71), the renaissance man of Indian science, visualized the impossible and often made it happen. Founder of India's space programme, Vikram dreamed of communication satellites that would educate people at a time when even a modest rocket programme seemed daring; of huge agricultural complexes serviced by atomic power and desalinated sea water. He envisioned research technology that would free Indian industry from foreign dependence, and of a world-class management college that would train managers for the public sector.

Amrita Shah's Vikram Sarabhai: A Life is the story of this dynamic visionary. Born into an immensely wealthy and politically conscious business family, Vikram had an early understanding of the power of money and the problems of a newly independent nation, to which he married a deep love for physics. Between 1947 and 1971, he built a thriving pharmaceutical business, conducted research into cosmic rays, set up India's first textile research cooperative, ATIRA, the first market research organization, ORG, the Indian Institute of Management in Ahmedabad and the dance academy Darpana.

He also headed the Atomic Energy Commission and laid the foundations for the world's first entirely peaceful space programme. Good-looking, charismatic, married to the glamorous classical dancer Mrinalini and closely associated with the most influential figures of his time??"C.V. Raman, Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi, Homi Bhabha, Bruno Rossi, Louis Kahn and John Rockefeller III??"Vikram seemed to have led a charmed existence.

Yet, his personal life was troubled and his strong resistance to India's move towards a nuclear explosion in the late 1960s put him at odds with powerful lobbies and fellow technologists. Amrita Shah delves into the life and mind of this fascinating, complex individual. This is a vivid and intimate portrait of a multifaceted genius who died young, but whose vision still drives India's ambitious space programme and inspires Ind

What will you learn from this book

  1. Visionary Leadership: The book likely emphasizes Sarabhai's visionary leadership in establishing and nurturing India's space program. It may explore how he foresaw the potential of space technology for the country's development.

  2. Founding of ISRO: Insights into the founding and early years of ISRO could be a central theme. The book may discuss the challenges and triumphs associated with establishing a space agency in India.

  3. Multidisciplinary Approach: Sarabhai's approach to science and technology often involved collaboration across disciplines. The book may highlight his efforts to integrate various scientific and technological fields for the benefit of the nation.

  4. Educational Initiatives: Sarabhai was passionate about education. The book might discuss his contributions to education, including the establishment of institutions such as the Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (IIMA) and the Community Science Center.

  5. International Collaboration: Sarabhai recognized the importance of international collaboration in space exploration. The book may delve into his efforts to foster partnerships with other countries and space agencies.

  6. Social Impact of Space Technology: The book may explore how Sarabhai envisioned the social and economic impact of space technology, including its applications in communication, weather forecasting, and resource management.

  7. Challenges and Obstacles: Sarabhai faced challenges in his pursuits. The book might discuss the obstacles he encountered and how he overcame them in the pursuit of his goals.

  8. Scientific Legacy: The scientific contributions of Sarabhai, especially in the fields of space and atmospheric sciences, may be a key takeaway. The book could provide insights into his research and discoveries.

  9. Personal Life and Influences: Biographies often delve into the personal life of the subject. The book may offer glimpses into Sarabhai's personal experiences, relationships, and the influences that shaped him.

  10. Legacy and Inspiration: The book may conclude by reflecting on Vikram Sarabhai's lasting legacy, his influence on India's space program, and how he continues to inspire scientists, researchers, and leaders.

Language English
ISBN-10 0670999512
ISBN-13 9780670999514
No of pages 264
Font Size Medium
Book Publisher Penguin India
Published Date 15 Feb 2007

About Author

Author : Amrita Shah

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