Famous Indian Scientists

Srinivasa Ramanujan was an Indian mathematician who made significant contributions to mathematical analysis, number theory, infinite series, and continued fractions despite having minimal formal training. His groundbreaking theorems and novel results, such as the Ramanujan prime and partition formulae, opened new areas of research. Ramanujan's work initially went unrecognized until he established a correspondence with G. H. Hardy, leading to his relocation to Cambridge. His prolific output of nearly 3,900 results continues to inspire mathematical research and has had a lasting impact on the field.

Aryabhata I was a prominent mathematician-astronomer in classical Indian mathematics and astronomy. He is known for his works such as the Āryabhaṭīya and the Arya-siddhanta. Aryabhata was a pioneer in discussing the relativity of motion, establishing him as an early physicist. His contributions to mathematics and astronomy during the classical age were significant and laid the foundation for further advancements in these fields. Aryabhata's work continues to be studied and revered for its insights and innovative approaches.

A.P.J. Abdul Kalam was an Indian aerospace scientist and statesman known as the Missile Man of India for his contributions to ballistic missile and launch vehicle technology. He served as the 11th president of India from 2002 to 2007 and played key roles in India's civilian space programme, military missile development efforts, and the Pokhran-II nuclear tests. Kalam was widely respected for his work in science and technology, receiving prestigious awards such as the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian honour.

Sir Chandrasekhara Venkata Raman was an Indian physicist acclaimed for discovering the Raman effect, a groundbreaking phenomenon in light scattering. His pioneering work with spectroscopy led to the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1930, making him the first Asian and non-White recipient. Throughout his career, Raman made significant contributions to the fields of acoustics and optics, serving as the first Palit Professor of Physics at the University of Calcutta and founding the Indian Journal of Physics. He furthered his legacy by establishing the Raman Research Institute and the Indian Academy of Sciences.

Shakuntala Devi was an Indian mental calculator, astrologer, and writer famously known as the "Human Computer". She achieved a place in The Guinness Book of World Records in 1982 for her exceptional arithmetic abilities. Devi strived to simplify numerical calculations for students and authored various books on mathematics, puzzles, and astrology. Notably, she wrote a groundbreaking work, "The World of Homosexuals," which is regarded as India's first study of homosexuality. Devi viewed homosexuality positively and is recognized as a trailblazer in the field.

Jagadish Chandra Bose was a polymath known for his groundbreaking work in biology, physics, and botany. He was a pioneer in the study of radio microwave optics and made significant contributions to botany, including the invention of the crescograph to measure plant responses. He was the founder of the Bose Institute and served as its director. Bose also conducted research on plant physiology, demonstrating parallelism between animal and plant tissues. His work laid the foundation for modern research in these fields and earned him recognition as a leading figure in experimental science.

Satyendra Nath Bose was an Indian theoretical physicist and mathematician known for his groundbreaking work in quantum mechanics, particularly in developing Bose–Einstein statistics and the theory of the Bose–Einstein condensate. He was a Fellow of the Royal Society and received India's Padma Vibhushan award. He made significant contributions to various fields beyond physics, serving on research and development committees in India. The class of particles obeying Bose statistics, bosons, was named after him by Paul Dirac, solidifying his legacy in the scientific community.

Brahmagupta was an Indian mathematician and astronomer known for his significant contributions to mathematics and astronomy in the 7th century CE. He authored two key works: the Brāhmasphuṭasiddhānta, a theoretical treatise, and the Khaṇḍakhādyaka, a practical text. In his professional life, he described gravity as an attractive force, introduced the term "gurutvākarṣaṇam" in Sanskrit for gravity, and provided the first clear description of the quadratic formula in his main work. His pioneering work continues to influence mathematics and science to this day.

Subrahmanyan Chandrasekhar was an Indian-American theoretical physicist known for his significant contributions to the study of stellar structure, evolution, and black holes. His work on stellar dynamics, white dwarfs, radiative transfer, and general relativity advanced the understanding of astrophysics. Chandrasekhar's research at the University of Chicago and Yerkes Observatory, as well as his editorial role at The Astrophysical Journal, solidified his reputation as a leading figure in theoretical astrophysics. His discoveries, such as the Chandrasekhar limit, continue to influence modern astrophysical models and observations.

Homi Jehangir Bhabha was an Indian nuclear physicist known as the "father of the Indian nuclear programme." He was the founding director of the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research and the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre. He played a key role in establishing the Indian nuclear energy and weapons programme, serving as the first chairman of the Indian Atomic Energy Commission. Bhabha also supported space science projects, contributing to the development of the Indian space programme. His contributions were recognized with prestigious awards and nominations in the field of physics.

Vikram Sarabhai was an Indian physicist and astronomer known for pioneering space research and nuclear power development in India. He is recognized as the "Father of Indian space program." Sarabhai's contributions led to significant advancements in India's space capabilities. His work laid the foundation for the country's achievements in space technology. He was honored with the Padma Bhushan in 1966 and posthumously awarded the Padma Vibhushan in 1972 for his exceptional contributions to science and technology in India.

Meghnad Saha was an accomplished Indian astrophysicist known for his significant contributions to the field. He is renowned for devising the theory of thermal ionisation and developing the Saha ionisation equation, which revolutionized the understanding of stellar spectra and temperatures. His work enabled astronomers to accurately correlate the spectral classes of stars with their real temperatures, advancing the field of astrophysics. Saha's profound insights and equations continue to be fundamental in the study of stars and their properties, leaving a lasting impact on the scientific community.

M. S. Swaminathan was an Indian agronomist, agricultural scientist, geneticist, and humanitarian known for his pivotal role in the green revolution. He collaborated with Norman Borlaug to save India and Pakistan from famine-like conditions in the 1960s. Swaminathan's leadership at the International Rice Research Institute earned him the first World Food Prize. He made significant contributions in research related to potato, wheat, and rice, and was recognized with prestigious awards like the Bharat Ratna. Swaminathan also chaired important commissions and advocated for sustainable agriculture practices and gender equality in farming.

Salim Ali was an Indian ornithologist and naturalist known as the "Birdman of India". He conducted systematic bird surveys across India, authored popular bird books, and played a key role in the Bombay Natural History Society. Ali's influence led to the creation of the Bharatpur bird sanctuary and the preservation of the Silent Valley National Park. He co-authored the Handbook of the Birds of India and Pakistan and received prestigious civilian honors in India. Several bird species, a fruit bat, a gecko, bird sanctuaries, and institutions bear his name.

Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis was an Indian scientist and statistician known for his significant contributions to the field of statistics. He is best known for developing the Mahalanobis distance, a key statistical measure, and for his role as a member of India's first Planning Commission. Mahalanobis also conducted groundbreaking studies in anthropometry and played a pivotal role in establishing the Indian Statistical Institute. His work in designing large-scale sample surveys and promoting statistical research earned him the title of the Father of statistics in India.

Abdul Qadeer Khan, known as A. Q. Khan, was a Pakistani nuclear physicist and metallurgical engineer. He is widely recognized as the "father of Pakistan's atomic weapons program." Khan founded the Khan Research Laboratories in 1976 and played a pivotal role in developing Pakistan's nuclear capabilities. He conducted pioneering studies in phase transitions of metallic alloys, uranium metallurgy, and isotope separation using gas centrifuges. Khan faced controversy over allegations of nuclear proliferation but was eventually freed after legal battles. His contributions to Pakistan's nuclear program remain significant.

Bhāskara II was a renowned Indian polymath, mathematician, astronomer, and engineer. He led a cosmic observatory in Ujjain, a prominent mathematical center in ancient India. Known as the greatest mathematician of medieval India, his main work, Siddhānta-Śiromaṇi, made significant contributions to mathematical and astronomical knowledge in the 12th century. Divided into four parts, his work covered arithmetic, algebra, mathematics of the planets, and spheres. Additionally, he authored another treatise named Karaṇā Kautūhala, further solidifying his reputation as a prominent figure in the field of mathematics and astronomy.

Chintamani Nagesa Ramachandra Rao is an esteemed Indian chemist specializing in solid-state and structural chemistry. With a remarkable academic journey that includes earning various degrees at a young age, he has made significant contributions to the field. Serving in prestigious roles such as Director of the Indian Institute of Science and Chair of the Scientific Advisory Council to the Prime Minister of India, Rao has received numerous awards and honors, including the Bharat Ratna. His prolific research output, extensive publications, and leadership in scientific institutions underscore his exceptional career in advancing chemistry.

Prafulla Chandra Ray was an eminent Indian chemist, educationist, historian, industrialist, and philanthropist. He is recognized as the Father of Indian Chemistry for establishing the first modern research school in chemistry in India. Ray founded Bengal Chemicals & Pharmaceuticals, the country's first pharmaceutical company. His contributions to the field of chemistry are significant, and he authored the renowned book "A History of Hindu Chemistry from the Earliest Times to the Middle of the Sixteenth Century." His work was honored by the Royal Society of Chemistry with the first Chemical Landmark Plaque outside Europe.

Mylswamy Annadurai is an accomplished Indian scientist known for his significant contributions to the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). With a career spanning 36 years at ISRO, he played pivotal roles in major missions such as Chandrayaan-1 and Mangalyaan. Annadurai's expertise led him to prestigious positions, including Director of ISRO Satellite Centre. His work has garnered international recognition, earning him the title "Moon Man of India" and a spot among the 100 Global Thinkers of 2014. Additionally, he is noted for his presence in the Tamil Nadu Board of Secondary Education textbooks.

Jayant Vishnu Narlikar is an Indian astrophysicist renowned for his work in developing the Hoyle-Narlikar theory with Sir Fred Hoyle, blending Einstein's theory of relativity with Mach's principle. He is an emeritus professor at the Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA) and has made significant contributions to the field of astrophysics. Narlikar's research focuses on conformal gravity theory, where he proposes that the inertial mass of a particle is influenced by the masses of all other particles, with a coupling constant dependent on the cosmic epoch.

Varāhamihira was an esteemed astrologer-astronomer known for his work in Ujjain, India. He made significant contributions to both fields through his writings and observations. His professional life was dedicated to studying the movements of celestial bodies and their influence on human affairs. Varāhamihira's expertise and knowledge were highly regarded, and his works continue to be studied and referenced in the fields of astrology and astronomy. His legacy as a pioneering figure in these disciplines remains influential and respected to this day.

Shiyali Ramamrita Ranganathan was a prominent Indian librarian and mathematician known for his significant contributions to library science. He formulated the five laws of library science and developed the colon classification system. Ranganathan held various prestigious positions, including university librarian and professor of library science at Banaras Hindu University and the University of Delhi. He was also president of the Indian Library Association and received honorary memberships and positions in international library associations. His work and thinking have had a profound impact on the field of library science both in India and worldwide.

Janaki Ammal was an accomplished Indian botanist renowned for her work in plant breeding, cytogenetics, and phytogeography. Her significant research contributions included studies on sugarcane and brinjal, as well as the cytogenetics of various plants. Notably, she co-authored the Chromosome Atlas of Cultivated Plants in 1945. Janaki Ammal also delved into ethnobotany, focusing on plants of medicinal and economic value in the rain forests of Kerala, India. Her dedication and expertise earned her the prestigious Padma Shri award in 1977.

E. C. George Sudarshan was an accomplished Indian American theoretical physicist and professor at the University of Texas. He made significant contributions to theoretical physics, notably in areas such as the Glauber-Sudarshan P representation, V-A theory, tachyons, quantum Zeno effect, open quantum systems, quantum master equations, spin-statistics theorem, non-invariance groups, positive maps of density matrices, and quantum computation. Sudarshan's work has had a lasting impact on the field, solidifying his reputation as a pioneering figure in theoretical physics.

Harish-Chandra Mehrotra was an Indian-American mathematician and physicist known for his significant contributions to representation theory and harmonic analysis on semisimple Lie groups. Throughout his professional life, he conducted fundamental research in these areas, making notable advancements that have had a lasting impact on mathematics and physics. His work has been recognized for its depth and importance, solidifying his reputation as a leading figure in the field of mathematics. Harish-Chandra's legacy continues to inspire and influence future generations of mathematicians and physicists.

Vijay Pandurang Bhatkar is an acclaimed Indian computer scientist, IT leader, and educationalist. Renowned for his role as the architect of India's supercomputing initiative, he led the development of Param supercomputers. Recipient of prestigious awards such as Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, and Maharashtra Bhushan, Bhatkar has been instrumental in shaping India's IT industry. As the founder of Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC) and current work on exascale supercomputing, his contributions are immense. Holding key positions at institutions like Nalanda University and IIT Delhi, he continues to drive advancements in science and technology.

Birbal Sahni was an accomplished Indian paleobotanist known for his extensive research on the fossil plants of the Indian subcontinent. He also delved into the fields of geology and archaeology during his career. In 1946, he established the Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany in Lucknow, which remains a renowned institution today. Sahni made significant contributions to the study of plant evolution and played a key role in advancing science education in India. He held prestigious positions including President of the National Academy of Sciences, India, and Honorary President of the International Botanical Congress, Stockholm.

Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar was a distinguished Indian colloid chemist, academic, and scientific administrator. He served as the first director-general of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and was the inaugural Chairman of the University Grants Commission (UGC). Revered as the Father of Research Laboratories in India, Bhatnagar's impactful legacy led to the establishment of the prestigious Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Prize for Science and Technology in 1958, recognizing scientists for their significant contributions across various scientific disciplines.

Narinder Singh Kapany was a pioneering physicist known for his groundbreaking work in the field of fiber optics. He coined and popularized the term, earning recognition as the father of Fiber Optics. Kapany's invention was deemed Nobel Prize-worthy, leading to his recognition as one of the "Unsung Heroes of the 20th Century" by Fortune magazine. He received India's Padma Vibhushan award posthumously in 2021 and served as an Indian Ordnance Factories Service officer. Kapany was also offered the role of Scientific Adviser to the Defence Minister of India by Jawaharlal Nehru.

Raja Ramanna was an Indian physicist who played a pivotal role in India's nuclear program. He obtained his PhD in Physics from King's College, London, and worked at institutions like the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research and Bhabha Atomic Research Centre. Ramanna served as the director of India's nuclear program, overseeing the successful nuclear weapon test in 1974. Throughout his career, he held various key positions in the defense and scientific research sectors, advocating against nuclear proliferation in his later years. Ramanna's contributions were recognized with numerous awards and honorary doctorates.

Augustus De Morgan was a British mathematician and logician known for his significant contributions to the field. He formulated De Morgan's laws, which relate to logical conjunction, disjunction, and negation, and he coined the term "mathematical induction." His work in logic has had a lasting impact on various branches of mathematics, including set theory and probability theory. De Morgan's principles are widely used in fields such as computer science, demonstrating his enduring influence on the development of mathematical and logical concepts.

Raj Reddy is an Indian-American computer scientist renowned for his contributions to artificial intelligence. With over 50 years in academia, he has held positions at Stanford and Carnegie Mellon, where he established the Robotics Institute. Reddy played a key role in founding educational institutions like Rajiv Gandhi University of Knowledge Technologies in India and the International Institute of Information Technology, Hyderabad. Notably, he was the first person of Asian descent to receive the prestigious Turing Award in 1994, recognizing his groundbreaking work in AI.

Venkatraman Ramakrishnan is a British-American structural biologist known for sharing the 2009 Nobel Prize in Chemistry for his research on ribosomes. He has been a group leader at the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology since 1999 and is a Fellow of Trinity College, Cambridge. Ramakrishnan also served as the President of the Royal Society from 2015 to 2020. His professional life is marked by significant contributions to the understanding of ribosome structure and function, as well as leadership roles in prestigious scientific institutions.

Ashoke Sen is an Indian theoretical physicist known for his work in string theory. He currently holds the position of distinguished professor at the International Centre for Theoretical Sciences in Bangalore and has previously served as a distinguished professor at the Harish-Chandra Research Institute in Allahabad. He is also an honorary fellow at the National Institute of Science Education and Research in India and has held visiting professor positions at MIT and the Korea Institute for Advanced Study. Sen's groundbreaking contributions to string theory have earned him prestigious accolades, including the Breakthrough Prize in Fundamental Physics.

Yellapragada Subbarow was an Indian American biochemist known for discovering the function of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) as a cell energy source. He developed methotrexate for cancer treatment and led research where chlortetracycline was discovered. His career included important contributions to medical research during World War II, including the first synthesis of folic acid and methotrexate. Subbarow's work also led to the discovery of diethylcarbamazine (DEC) for treating filariasis. Despite not gaining tenure at Harvard University, he made significant advancements in the field of biochemistry and medicine.

Bhāskara I, a 7th-century Indian mathematician and astronomer, made significant contributions to the fields of mathematics and astronomy. He was the first to use the Hindu–Arabic decimal system with a zero symbol and provided a unique rational approximation of the sine function. His commentary on Aryabhata's work, Āryabhaṭīyabhāṣya, is one of the oldest known prose works in Sanskrit on these subjects. Bhāskara I also authored two important astronomical works, the Mahābhāskarīya and the Laghubhāskarīya, continuing Aryabhata's legacy. His achievements were later honored by the Indian Space Research Organisation with the launch of the Bhāskara I satellite in 1979.

Tessy Thomas is an accomplished Indian scientist, renowned for her significant contributions in the field of missile technology. She has served as the former Director General of Aeronautical Systems and the Project Director for the Agni-IV missile at the Defence Research and Development Organisation. Thomas holds the distinction of being the first female scientist to lead a missile project in India, breaking barriers and inspiring future generations. Her expertise and leadership have played a crucial role in advancing India's defense capabilities.

Mādhava of Sangamagrāma was an Indian mathematician and astronomer known for founding the Kerala school of astronomy and mathematics. He made significant contributions to various fields including infinite series, calculus, trigonometry, geometry, and algebra. Madhava was a pioneer in using infinite series approximations for trigonometric functions, marking a crucial advancement from the finite procedures of ancient mathematics. His work has been recognized as a decisive step towards understanding the limit-passage to infinity in mathematical processes.

Asima Chatterjee was an Indian organic chemist renowned for her significant contributions to organic chemistry and phytomedicine. Her pioneering research focused on vinca alkaloids, anti-epileptic drugs, and anti-malarial drugs. She authored numerous works on medicinal plants of the Indian subcontinent. Notably, she achieved the milestone of being the first woman to earn a Doctorate of Science from an Indian university. Chatterjee's professional life was characterized by groundbreaking discoveries and a lasting impact on the fields of organic chemistry and medicinal research.

Amal Kumar Raychaudhuri was an esteemed Indian physicist known for his groundbreaking contributions in general relativity and cosmology. His renowned Raychaudhuri equation highlighted the inevitability of singularities in general relativity, playing a crucial role in the development of the Penrose-Hawking singularity theorems. Besides his research, Raychaudhuri was highly respected for his role as an influential teacher during his tenure at Presidency College, Kolkata. His work continues to inspire and shape the field of theoretical physics to this day.

Rai Bahadur Sir Upendranath Brahmachari was a prominent Indian physician and scientist known for his significant contributions to medicine. In 1922, he synthesized urea-stibamine, also known as carbostibamide, and successfully demonstrated its effectiveness in treating kala-azar, a deadly disease caused by the protozoan parasite Leishmania donovani. His groundbreaking work in the field of medicine has had a lasting impact on the treatment and management of this disease, earning him recognition as a pioneering figure in the medical community.

Raghunath Anant Mashelkar is an esteemed Indian Chemical Engineer with a prolific professional career. He served as the Director General of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research, President of Indian National Science Academy, and President of Institution of Chemical Engineers. Mashelkar also held the position of President of Global Research Alliance and was the first Chairperson of Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research. He is recognized as a Fellow of prestigious organizations such as the Royal Society and Royal Academy of Engineering, among others.

Tathagat Avatar Tulsi is an accomplished Indian physicist known for his exceptional achievements at a young age. He completed high school, earned a BSc, and an MSc at remarkably early ages. Tathagat obtained his PhD from the Indian Institute of Science and briefly served as an Assistant Professor at IIT Bombay. He gained recognition for his work on quantum algorithms and was selected to participate in prestigious events and conferences. Tulsi continues to pursue his passion for physics and law, aiming to further his career in academia.

Śrīdhara, also known as Śrīdharācārya, was an esteemed Indian mathematician in the 8th-9th century. His professional life revolved around the field of mathematics, particularly focusing on arithmetic, practical mathematics, and algebra. He is renowned for his surviving works, Pāṭīgaṇita and Pāṭīgaṇita-sāra, which delve into arithmetic concepts, along with a lost treatise on algebra called Bījagaṇita. Śrīdhara's contributions have left a lasting impact on the mathematical community, showcasing his expertise and dedication to advancing mathematical knowledge.

Rajnath Singh is an Indian politician and lecturer who has held various significant positions in Indian government. He has served as the Defence Minister of India since 2019 and was previously the Home Minister, chief minister of Uttar Pradesh, and a Cabinet Minister for Road Transport and Highways and Agriculture. He has been actively involved in the Bharatiya Janata Party, having served as its President and Deputy Leader of the House in Lok Sabha. Singh has also been a member of various legislative bodies including Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha, and Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly.

S. R. Srinivasa Varadhan is an Indian American mathematician renowned for his significant contributions to probability theory, particularly in developing a unified theory of large deviations. He is highly regarded for his work on diffusion processes and the advancement of Itô's stochastic calculus. In 2007, he made history by becoming the first Asian to receive the prestigious Abel Prize for his groundbreaking research. Varadhan's professional life is characterized by pioneering advancements in probability theory and stochastic processes, solidifying his reputation as a fundamental figure in the field.

Hemachandra, a 12th-century Indian Jain saint, excelled in various fields such as scholarship, poetry, mathematics, philosophy, yoga, grammar, law theory, history, lexicography, rhetoric, logic, and prosody. Known for his exceptional intellect, he was honored with the title "the knower of all knowledge in his times." He served as an adviser to King Kumarapala, contributing to political discourse through his work Arhanniti. Hemachandra's literary contributions include the epic poem Trishashti-shalaka-purusha-charita, detailing the lives of significant Jain figures. His profound influence extends to being recognized as the father of the Gujarati language.

Raj Chandra Bose was an Indian American mathematician and statistician known for his significant contributions to design theory, finite geometry, and error-correcting codes. He made groundbreaking discoveries in the fields of partial geometry, association scheme, and strongly regular graph. Bose, along with his colleagues, notably disproved a conjecture by Leonhard Euler regarding Latin squares. His work with S. S. Shrikhande and E. T. Parker in this area was particularly influential. Bose's systematic study of difference sets and symmetric block designs further solidified his reputation as a pioneering figure in mathematics and statistics.

Subhash Kak is an Indian-American computer scientist and historical revisionist, serving as the Regents Professor of Computer Science at Oklahoma State University–Stillwater. He is also an honorary visiting professor of engineering at Jawaharlal Nehru University and a member of the Indian Prime Minister's Science, Technology and Innovation Advisory Council. Kak has published extensively on topics such as the history of science, philosophy of science, ancient astronomy, history of mathematics, and archaeoastronomy. While he has received recognition such as the Padma Shri award from the Government of India, his theories have been met with criticism by many scholars.

Mahan Mj, also known as Mahan Maharaj and Swami Vidyanathananda, is an Indian mathematician and monk of the Ramakrishna Order. He is a distinguished Professor of Mathematics at the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research in Mumbai. Mahan Mj is a highly acclaimed scholar in the field of mathematics, having received prestigious awards such as the Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Award in mathematical sciences and the Infosys Prize for Mathematical Sciences. His expertise lies in hyperbolic geometry, geometric group theory, low-dimensional topology, and complex geometry.

Narendra Krishna Karmarkar is an Indian mathematician known for developing Karmarkar's algorithm, a provably polynomial time algorithm for linear programming. This innovative algorithm, also known as an interior point method, has become a cornerstone in the field of linear programming. Karmarkar published his groundbreaking result in 1984 while working at Bell Laboratories in New Jersey. His contributions to the field have earned him recognition as an ISI highly cited researcher, solidifying his reputation as a prominent figure in the world of mathematics.

Manindra Agrawal is an accomplished Indian computer scientist. He serves as the director of the Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur, and is a professor in the Department of Computer Science and Engineering at the same institution. Agrawal has received prestigious awards such as the first Infosys Prize for Mathematics, the Godel Prize in 2006, and the Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Award in Mathematical Sciences in 2003. He was also honored with the Padma Shri, India's 4th highest civilian award, in 2013.

Krishnaswamy Kasturirangan is an accomplished Indian space scientist who served as the head of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) from 1994 to 2003. He has held various prestigious positions including Chancellor of Central University of Rajasthan and NIIT University, former chancellor of Jawaharlal Nehru University, and chairman of Karnataka Knowledge Commission. Kasturirangan has also been a member of the Rajya Sabha and the Planning Commission of India. Additionally, he has been recognized with the Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Vibhushan awards for his significant contributions to the field.

Anil Kakodkar is an Indian nuclear physicist and mechanical engineer known for his significant contributions to India's nuclear program. He has held prominent positions such as Chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission of India, Director of the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, and Secretary to the Government of India. Kakodkar played a key role in India's nuclear tests and has been a strong advocate for the country's self-reliance on thorium as a nuclear energy fuel source. He was honored with the Padma Vibhushan, India's second highest civilian award.

Sundararaman Ramanan is an esteemed Indian mathematician renowned for his work in algebraic geometry, moduli spaces, and Lie groups. He is a leading figure in the Indian mathematical community, particularly known for his expertise in algebraic geometry and moduli problems. Ramanan has also made significant contributions to differential geometry, notably through his joint paper with MS Narasimhan on universal connections. This paper was influential in the introduction of the Chern-Simons invariant, a concept that has proven valuable in theoretical physics.

J. H. C. Whitehead was a British mathematician renowned for his contributions to homotopy theory. He played a pivotal role in the development of this field and is considered one of its founders. Whitehead's work has had a lasting impact on the study of algebraic topology. His professional life was marked by significant achievements in mathematical research and academia. Working at esteemed institutions, he made valuable contributions to the advancement of mathematics until his passing in 1960.

Udupi Ramachandra Rao was an esteemed Indian space scientist who served as chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation. He also held leadership positions at the Physical Research Laboratory and Nehru Planetarium. Known as "The Satellite Man of India," Rao was a pioneer in launching India's first satellite, Aryabhata, in 1975. He received prestigious awards such as the Padma Bhushan and Padma Vibhushan from the Government of India. Rao made history by becoming the first Indian to be inducted into the Satellite Hall of Fame in Washington and the International Astronautics Federation.

G.N. Ramachandran was an Indian physicist renowned for his groundbreaking work in understanding peptide structure, notably creating the Ramachandran plot. He proposed the triple-helical model for collagen structure, a significant advancement in biology. His contributions extended beyond this, making notable impacts in both biology and physics. Ramachandran's innovative research and discoveries firmly established him as a leading figure in the scientific community, leaving a lasting legacy in the fields of structural biology and biophysics.

Nilakantha Somayaji was a prominent mathematician and astronomer associated with the Kerala school of astronomy and mathematics. He is best known for his influential works such as the Tantrasamgraha and Aryabhatiya Bhasya. In his professional life, he made significant contributions to the field of astronomy through his studies on infinite series expansions of trigonometric functions, algebra, and spherical geometry. He also authored the Grahapariksakrama, a manual focusing on observational techniques in astronomy using contemporary instruments. Somayaji's work continues to be studied and revered for its impact on the field of mathematics and astronomy.

Ziauddin Ahmad was a prominent Indian mathematician, parliamentarian, logician, natural philosopher, politician, political theorist, educationist, and scholar associated with the Aligarh Movement. He held various positions at Aligarh Muslim University, including professor, principal, pro vice-chancellor, vice chancellor, and rector. Ahmad served as vice chancellor for three terms and was involved in significant educational and military committees, such as the Calcutta University Commission, the Skeen Committee (Indian Sandhurst Committee), and the Shea Commission for the Indianisation of the British Indian Army.

Sharmila Bhattacharya is an accomplished Indian-American scientist serving as the chief scientist for astrobionics at NASA Ames Research Center. She leads the Biomodel Performance and Behavior laboratory and is a subject matter expert for the US Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation. As the principal investigator for the Biomodel Performance Laboratory, she conducted research sending fruit flies to space to study human illnesses and space radiation effects. Her contributions have been recognized with prestigious awards such as the NASA Exceptional Scientific Achievement Medal for her outstanding work in space biosciences.

R. P. Paranjpe, also known as Wrangler Paranjpye, was an accomplished Indian mathematician and diplomat. He made history by becoming the first Indian to attain the prestigious title of Senior Wrangler at the University of Cambridge. His career included serving as the 1st High Commissioner of India to Australia from 1945 to 1947, further showcasing his diplomatic skills. Paranjpe's contributions extended to academia, where he held positions as Vice Chancellor at several Indian universities, leaving a lasting impact on the educational landscape of the country.

Raghunath Dhondo Karve was a professor of mathematics who became a prominent sex educator and social reformer from Maharashtra, India. He faced opposition from conservative administrators when he openly advocated for family planning, population control, and women's rights. As a result, he resigned from his professorship and dedicated himself to these causes. Karve founded India's first birth control clinic in 1921, aligning with the opening of a similar clinic in London that year. He played a pioneering role in promoting birth control and sexual education in Mumbai.

Shripati, an eleventh-century Indian mathematician and astronomer, made significant contributions to the fields of astral science and astrology. His works, including Dhikotidakarana and Siddhantasekhara, covered areas such as algebra, horoscopic astrology, and mathematics. However, he gained widespread recognition primarily for his astrological writings, particularly the text Jyotisaratnamala. Shripati's professional life was marked by a focus on advancing knowledge in astrology and mathematics, leaving a lasting impact on these disciplines through his insightful and influential works.

Dr. Modadugu Vijay Gupta is an Indian biologist and fisheries scientist known for his pioneering work in freshwater fish farming, particularly with tilapia species, aimed at benefiting rural communities. He was awarded the World Food Prize in 2005 for his low-cost techniques in aquaculture, contributing to the blue revolution in Southeast Asia. In 2015, he received the Sunhak Peace Prize for his aquaculture system benefiting marginalized populations in Asia, Africa, and the Pacific. His professional career included serving as Assistant Director General at WorldFish, an international fisheries research institute.

Bapudeva Sastri, an esteemed Indian scholar, excelled in mathematics and Sanskrit. His notable achievement includes translating the 12th-century mathematical treatise Siddhānta Shiromani by Bhaskaracharya. Sastri's expertise led to the publication of the translated version in 1891, contributing significantly to the dissemination of mathematical knowledge. His dedication to academia and linguistic prowess established him as a renowned figure in the field, leaving a lasting impact on the understanding and preservation of mathematical heritage through his scholarly endeavors.

Ganesh Prasad was an esteemed Indian mathematician known for his expertise in the theory of potentials, functions of a real variable, Fourier series, and surfaces. He received training at the Universities of Cambridge and Göttingen before returning to India to contribute significantly to the development of mathematical research in the country. Widely regarded as the 'Father of Mathematical Research in India,' Ganesh Prasad was also dedicated to advancing primary education in rural areas, showcasing his commitment to both academia and societal progress.

Dr. Sekhar Basu was an Indian nuclear scientist who held key positions in the Department of Atomic Energy, including Chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission and Secretary to the Government of India. He also served as Director of the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) and played a crucial role in India's nuclear submarine program. Known for his contributions to building the nuclear reactor for INS Arihant, nuclear waste recycling plants, and the Indian Neutrino Observatory, Dr. Basu received the Padma Shri in 2014 for his significant achievements in the field of nuclear science.

Raman Sukumar is a distinguished ecologist known for his extensive research on wildlife-human conflict and the Asian elephant. He played a pivotal role in designing the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve in 1986, showcasing his commitment to conservation efforts. In 1997, he founded the Asian Nature Conservation Foundation, which has spearheaded numerous field projects across various Asian countries. Sukumar's professional journey exemplifies his dedication to wildlife conservation and his significant contributions to understanding and mitigating conflicts between wildlife and human populations.

Ramchundra was a British Indian mathematician known for his book, Treatise on Problems of Maxima and Minima, which was promoted by mathematician Augustus De Morgan. Self-taught and highly skilled in mathematics, he caught De Morgan's attention with his work on maxima and minima. De Morgan arranged for the book to be republished in London and introduced Ramchundra's work to the European scientific community. Ramchundra was a teacher of science at Delhi College and later served as head master at Thomason Civil Engineering College and a school in Delhi.

Yash Pal was a distinguished Indian scientist, educator, and institution-builder known for his significant contributions to the study of cosmic rays. He began his career at Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR) and later served as Chairman of the University Grants Commission. Yash Pal was recognized for his expertise in science communication and became one of the leading figures in this field in India. His achievements were honored with India's prestigious Padma Vibhushan award in 2013.

K. S. Chandrasekharan was a distinguished mathematician known for his contributions to number theory and summability. He served as a professor at ETH Zurich and was a founding faculty member of the School of Mathematics at Tata Institute of Fundamental Research. Chandrasekharan received prestigious accolades such as the Padma Shri, the Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Award, and the Ramanujan Medal for his outstanding work. He also held the position of president of the International Mathematical Union from 1971 to 1974 and was an honorary fellow of TIFR.

Abhas Mitra is an Indian astrophysicist known for his groundbreaking work challenging established cosmological theories, particularly those related to black holes and the Big Bang. His research, notably an article published in 2000, directly confronted the theories of renowned physicists like Stephen Hawking. Mitra's contributions to the field have sparked debate and led to significant revisions in existing paradigms. His persistence and intellectual rigor have earned him recognition and respect within the scientific community, solidifying his reputation as a pioneering figure in astrophysics.

Illiparambil Corah Chacko was a versatile professional with expertise in geology, philology, and writing. He pursued advanced studies in Physics, Mathematics, and Geology in London, becoming an Associate of the Royal School of Mines. In his career, he served as the State Geologist of Travancore State and the Director of Industries. Chacko was a prolific writer in English, Malayalam, and Sanskrit, producing works on various subjects including geology and grammar. He received accolades such as the Kenthra Sahitya Academy Award for his commentary on Panini's Vyakarana Sutras and the establishment of the IC Chacko Endowment Award by the Kerala Sahitya Academy.