I got these two anecdotes about two of the great Indian scientists, Sir CV Raman and Satyendranath Bose from ‘Inspiring Young Minds – Inspirational book of Science’ , Science Olympiad Foundation. I found them very interesting. So, I thought of sharing it with my friends on iland.

Raman effect on alcohol :

Raman possessed a great and a very refined sense of humour. At the ceremony for the Nobel award in 1930, Raman used alcohol to demonstrate the Raman Effect. Later in the evening alcoholic drinks were served at the dinner and when Raman was offered a glass of wine he said, “Since now you know the Raman Effect on alcohol, are you trying to find out the alcohol effect on Raman?” Raman remained loyal to the Indian traditions and politely refused to have any alcoholic drinks.

Dormantly alert :

Satyendranath was of a stout build and he always appeared lethargic. Not many realized that the mind inhabiting his stout form was ever alert and keenly attentive.

Once the great scientist, Niels Bohr, was delivering a lecture at a conference where Bose was presiding. During the course of the lecture Bohr got stuck at some point which he found hard to explain. He turned to Bose and said “Can Professor Bose help me out?” Satyendranath was comfortably nestled in his chair with his eyes shut, apparently dozing. The audience could not help smiling when Professor Bohr appealed to him for help. They hardly believed he was aware of what was going on around him. But to their extreme surprise, Bose instantly opened his eyes; got to his feet and clarified the point with amazing lucidity. Then, once again he settled comfortably in his chair and closed his eyes!