Sir Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya was an eminent Indian engineer, politician and scholar. He is widely recognized for his pioneering contributions to engineering and nation-building.
Early life and education
Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya was born on September 15, 1861 in Muddenahalli, a village in the Karnataka state of India. He had his early education in Chikkaballapur and completed his Bachelor of Arts degree from Central College, Bangalore. After graduation, he studied civil engineering at the College of Science, Pune.
Engineering Career
Visvesvaraya started his engineering career at the Indian Irrigation Commission in the Bombay Presidency of British India. There he worked on various projects, gaining valuable experience in water management and irrigation. Thereafter, Visvesvaraya worked for Hyderabad State. After retirement, he started his administrative and politician career and continued his engineering career in the Kingdom of Mysore.
Major Achievements
His most notable contributions include the design and construction of several dams, including the Krishna Raja Sagar Dam in Mandya, Karnataka and the KRS Dam in Mettur, Tamil Nadu. He played an important role in the development of an extensive system of irrigation in the Deccan Plateau region, which greatly increased agricultural productivity.
Recognition and respect
Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya received many awards and honors during his lifetime. In 1955 he was awarded the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian award.
He was knighted by the British Government in 1915 and became Sir M. Visvesvaraya.
Visvesvaraya's contribution to engineering and nation-building earned him the title of “Father of Modern Mysore”.
later life
After retirement from government service, he remained involved in various engineering and developmental activities.
He served as the Dewan (Prime Minister) of the princely state of Mysore from 1912 to 1918, where he introduced many innovative reforms and policies that transformed the state.
Additionally, he also served on the Board of Directors of Tata Steels.
He died on April 14, 1962.
Heritage
Sir M. Visvesvaraya's legacy extends beyond his engineering achievements. He was a visionary leader who emphasized the importance of education, industrialization and scientific research for India's progress.
His birthday, 15 September, is celebrated as “Engineers Day” in India, a day to honor engineers and their contribution to the society.
The Visvesvaraya Industrial and Technological Museum in Bengaluru, Karnataka is named in his honour, showcasing his life and contributions.
The life and work of M Visvesvaraya inspires engineers and individuals in India and beyond, emphasizing the importance of engineering and innovation in nation building and development.
When is Engineer's Day celebrated in India?
15 September
Whose birth anniversary is Engineer's Day celebrated in India?
M. Visvesvaraya
On which day is the birth anniversary of Sir M. Visvesvaraya celebrated?