M. Visvesvaraya, Indian engineer and scholar (b. 1860)

Sir Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya, revered widely as Sir MV, was a towering figure in India's modern history, embodying a rare blend of engineering genius and visionary statesmanship. Born on 15 September 1860 and living a remarkably long life until 14 April 1962, he left an indelible mark on the nation's infrastructure and administrative landscape. A distinguished Fellow of the Indian Academy of Sciences (FASc), his legacy continues to inspire generations.

A Formative Education and Early Promise

Sir MV's educational journey laid the foundation for his illustrious career. He commenced his primary schooling in Bangalore, a bustling city that would later benefit immensely from his engineering prowess. His academic excellence led him to secure a Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree from the prestigious University of Madras. Demonstrating an early inclination towards practical application and infrastructure development, he then pursued a Diploma in Civil Engineering (DCE) from the University of Bombay. This degree was obtained through its affiliated institution, the College of Engineering, Pune (COEP), which holds the distinction of being the third oldest engineering college in Asia. This rigorous education equipped him with the deep theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to tackle some of the era's most complex engineering challenges.

Master Architect of Modern India: Key Engineering Feats

Sir MV's engineering contributions were monumental and directly shaped the lives of millions. His work was characterized by innovation, foresight, and a commitment to public welfare. Among his most celebrated projects are:

• Krishna Raja Sagara (KRS) Dam: Located in the north-west suburb of Mysuru city, this multi-purpose dam was a marvel of its time. As its Chief Engineer, Sir MV oversaw the construction of a project that not only provided crucial irrigation for agricultural lands but also supplied drinking water to the burgeoning cities of Mysore and Bangalore. Furthermore, it generated hydroelectric power, catalyzing industrial growth in the region. The dam's innovative automatic sluice gates, designed by Sir MV himself, were particularly groundbreaking, allowing for efficient water management.
• Laxmi Talav Dam: Situated near Kolhapur in south-west Maharashtra, this project further showcased his expertise in water resource management, contributing to the agricultural prosperity and water security of the local communities.
• Hyderabad Flood Protection System: Following the devastating Musi River floods of 1908 that ravaged the city of Hyderabad, Sir MV was instrumental in designing and implementing a comprehensive flood protection system. Serving as one of the Chief Engineers for this critical endeavor, his plan brought safety and stability to the city, demonstrating his commitment to urban planning and disaster mitigation.

The Visionary Diwan of Mysore

Beyond his engineering marvels, Sir MV ascended to a pivotal administrative role, serving as the 19th Diwan of Mysore from 1912 to 1919. In this capacity, he functioned as the chief minister under the Maharaja, wielding significant influence over the princely state's governance. His tenure as Diwan is often regarded as a golden age for Mysore, transforming it into one of the most progressive and industrialized states in British India. He championed initiatives across various sectors:

• Education: He pushed for compulsory education, established the University of Mysore, and introduced vocational training, recognizing education as the bedrock of progress.
• Industry: Sir MV was instrumental in establishing numerous industries, including the Mysore Iron and Steel Works (now Visvesvaraya Iron and Steel Plant) at Bhadravati, the Mysore Sandalwood Oil Factory, and the Mysore Bank (now State Bank of Mysore), fostering economic self-sufficiency.
• Infrastructure: He continued to oversee infrastructure development, including railways and roads, further modernizing the state.
• Public Administration: He introduced administrative reforms to enhance efficiency and transparency in governance.

Accolades and an Enduring Legacy

Sir M. Visvesvaraya's unparalleled contributions did not go unnoticed, earning him the highest honours both nationally and internationally:

• Bharat Ratna: In 1955, he was conferred with the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian honour, a testament to his monumental service to the nation.
• Knight Commander of the British Indian Empire (KCIE): For his outstanding contributions to the public good and his service to the British Empire, King George V knighted him as a Knight Commander of the British Indian Empire (KCIE). This prestigious title conferred upon him the prefix "Sir."

His profound impact is celebrated annually on his birthday, 15 September, which is observed as Engineers' Day in India, Sri Lanka, and Tanzania. This day serves as a tribute to his vision, dedication, and the transformative power of engineering in nation-building, inspiring countless individuals to pursue innovation and service.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who was Sir M. Visvesvaraya?

Sir M. Visvesvaraya was an eminent Indian civil engineer, statesman, and the 19th Diwan of Mysore. He is widely regarded as one of the chief architects of modern India, celebrated for his contributions to engineering, education, and public administration.

What were Sir M. Visvesvaraya's major engineering contributions?

His most notable engineering projects include the design and construction of the Krishna Raja Sagara (KRS) Dam in Mysuru, the Laxmi Talav Dam near Kolhapur, and the comprehensive flood protection system for the city of Hyderabad.

Why is September 15th celebrated as Engineers' Day?

September 15th, Sir M. Visvesvaraya's birthday, is celebrated as Engineers' Day in India, Sri Lanka, and Tanzania to honour his immense contributions to engineering, his pioneering spirit, and his dedication to nation-building, serving as an inspiration for engineers and innovators.

What was Sir M. Visvesvaraya's role as the Diwan of Mysore?

As the Diwan (Chief Minister) of Mysore from 1912 to 1919, he spearheaded significant reforms and developments in education, industry, and public administration, transforming Mysore into one of the most progressive princely states in British India.

What major awards and honours did Sir M. Visvesvaraya receive?

He was conferred with the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian honour, in 1955. Additionally, King George V knighted him as a Knight Commander of the British Indian Empire (KCIE) for his exceptional service to the public good.