DR. N. S. SUNDARA RAJAN

Dr. N. S. Sundara Rajan was a personality marked by intellect, wit, vitality, and boundless enthusiasm. Even in his advanced age of 96, at the time of his departure, he remained a symbol of eager, child-like curiosity and infectious cheer. Describing his charisma proves challenging; it was adorned with a warm smile and a genuinely affectionate nature. In every sense, he was a perfectionist, striving to bring out the best in those he collaborated with.

Dr. Rajan, always supportive and encouraging, consistently worked towards making education accessible to students from all walks of life. Whether it involved establishing a laboratory or creating employment opportunities, he approached each endeavor with complete involvement, dedication, and astute thinking. His humility and simplicity endeared him to generations of teachers, leaving an enduring impact on all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Born on October 15, 1920, in T. Narsipura, a small town near Mysuru, situated in the divine presence of the deity Gunja Narasimha, Dr. N.S. Sundara Rajan led a privileged life. He attained his Bachelor's Degree in 1941 and B.Sc (Hons) in 1949 from Central College, Bangalore. In 1945, he embarked on his career, playing a pivotal role in the planning, construction, and establishment of the Chemistry laboratory and the Department of Chemistry at Vijaya College, R. V. Road, Bangalore. It's noteworthy that he held the distinction of being the first faculty member in the Department of Chemistry. Dr. Sundara Rajan initiated several commendable endeavors that significantly contributed to the elevated stature of the college.

For a span of 15 years, Dr. N. S. Sundara Rajan dedicated himself to teaching Physical and Organic Chemistry at the undergraduate level, during which he assumed leadership of the Department of Chemistry at Vijaya College from 1945 to 1950. In the years 1953 to 1957, he took on the responsibility of overseeing the Department of Chemistry at the University of Liberia in Monrovia. During this tenure, he not only devised the science curriculum but also established the Chemistry laboratory. As part of the UNESCO Technical Assistance Programme, he meticulously planned and fully equipped the Chemistry Department in the Science building at the University of Liberia, Monrovia, West Africa.

Dr. Sundara Rajan's passion for research earned him a student's scholarship from the Government of India. Subsequently, he dedicated three years to research work in India as a Senior Research Scholar in Chemistry. His journey continued as he was privileged to work with UNESCO as an Advisor until his retirement. Over nearly two decades of service, he actively contributed to the advancement of education in various Western countries, showcasing his unwavering commitment to educational development.

In addition to his role as a member of the UNESCO Advisory Committee, Dr. N. S. Sundara Rajan furthered his academic achievements by earning his M.Sc. degree and Ph.D. from the University of Illinois in 1960. His academic contributions extended to teaching the Radiocarbon course (Chem. 496) in the Spring of 1961.

With a wealth of research experience spanning six years, Dr. Sundara Rajan's endeavors included 1 ½ years in Metallurgy focusing on transition element alloys, 2½ years in Synthetic Organic Chemistry and natural products, and 2 years dedicated to the synthesis of C-14 and Tritium-labelled compounds. His research output was notable, with published Research Papers covering diverse topics such as 'On the Chemistry of Coumaranomes,' 'Sigmaphase Internal Systems of Silicon with V, Fe, Co, and Ni,' and 'Temperature Coefficient of Resistance of Transition Metal Alloys from Liquid Helium to Room Temperature.' Additionally, he contributed an unpublished paper on 'Alkaloids of Coscinium Tenestratum,' along with works in 'Metallurgy' and another on 'Tritium-Labeled Compounds.'

Upon his retirement, Dr. N. S. Sundara Rajan returned to India, bringing with him a wealth of diverse experiences. He was granted the honor of leading the BHSHES Management as its President. In tribute to his late wife, Smt. Padma Rajan, he established the 'Smt. Padma Rajan Trust.' Dr. N. S. Sundara Rajan's invaluable and dedicated service as the President of BHSHES spanned nearly two decades, a legacy that we hold dear with immense pride.

The passing of Dr. N. S. Sundara Rajan on February 17, 2016, marked an irreparable loss, leaving behind a void that resonates with the impact of his contributions and leadership.

Mohan C HOD