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Life Profile of Acharya Prafulla Chandra Ray

• Acharya Prafulla Chandra Ray, often referred to as PC Ray, is recognized as the father of the Indian chemical industry. He was a remarkable scientist and industrialist who played a pivotal role in bridging academia and industry. Born in the early 1860s in Bengal, Ray's contributions to synthetic chemistry and ancient Rasayana Vidya established him as a prominent figure in Indian science.

Birth and Early Life

• Born on August 2, 1861, in Raruli village, Jessore District, under Bengal Presidency, PC Ray was the third child in a well-respected family known for their contributions to society. His parents, Harish Chandra, a kind-hearted reformer, and Bhubanmohini Devi, nurtured his education from an early age. Ray's early life was marked by his nickname "Fulu," and he enjoyed a supportive upbringing that led him toward academic excellence.

Education

• Ray's academic journey began at a school founded by his father. He later moved to Calcutta, where he struggled with health issues, but still managed to excel in his studies. In 1881, he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree, later pursuing higher education at Edinburgh University, where he earned a B.Sc. in 1885 and a Doctor of Science in 1887. His achievement included the prestigious Hope Prize and Faraday Gold Medal.

Professional Career

• Returning to India, Ray joined Presidency College, Calcutta, as an assistant professor, where he worked until 1916. He mentored notable students, many of whom became significant figures in their own right. His first recognized research was published in the Journal of the Asiatic Society of Bengal in 1894, followed by more than 100 influential articles throughout his esteemed career.

• Ray's critical discovery was the formation of mercurous nitrite in 1895, which brought him international recognition. He was dedicated to completing his research, often involving his students in the process.

Contributions as an Author

• Despite his scientific achievements, Ray was also an esteemed writer. His works include essays on Indian history and culture, and his most significant contributions to chemical literature are his two-volume series "History of Hindu Chemistry." His efforts to promote chemistry through the Bengali language exemplify his commitment to education and accessibility.

Entrepreneurship

• Ray founded Bengal Chemical Works in 1892, beginning his vision of linking chemistry to industrial applications. By 1901, it became Bengal Chemicals and Pharmaceuticals Limited, marking a significant step in India's industrial renaissance. His entrepreneurial spirit was driven by a desire to empower the youth of India amid colonial oppression.

Nationalism and Philanthropy

• As a nationalist, Ray was acutely aware of the struggles faced by the Indian populace under British rule. He provided support to freedom fighters covertly, and his factories became a hub for revolutionary activities. His philanthropic efforts were evident in his creation of the Bengal Relief Fund during the 1923 floods and support for various educational initiatives.

Awards and Recognition

• In recognition of his work, Ray received numerous accolades and honorary degrees from Indian and international institutions. Notably, during his 150th birth anniversary, he was honored by the Royal Society of Chemistry in the UK, celebrating his legacy as a pioneer in Indian chemistry.

Legacy and Conclusion

• bhiAcharya Prafulla Chandra Ray is remembered not only as a scientist but as a visionary who integrated education, industry, and social consciousness. His contributions to science, especially in synthetic inorganic chemistry, have earned him lasting respect as the "Father of Pharmaceuticals in India." Ray's life and works continue to inspire future generations, affirming his place as a stalwart in Indian history.