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

Sir Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya, universally recognized as Sir MV, was an iconic figure in India's modern history, renowned for his multifaceted contributions spanning over a century. Born on 15 September 1860, he lived a remarkable life until 14 April 1962, distinguishing himself as an extraordinary Indian civil engineer, a visionary statesman, and significantly, the 19th Diwan of the princely state of Mysore. His transformative tenure as Diwan, from 1912 to 1919, was a period of unprecedented administrative and industrial reforms that profoundly shaped the region's future.

Sir MV's academic journey began with his primary education in Bangalore, where his exceptional intellect became evident. He pursued higher education, earning his Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree from the esteemed University of Madras. Further honing his expertise in engineering, he subsequently secured a Diploma in Civil Engineering (DCE) from the University of Bombay. This specialized qualification was attained through its affiliated institution, the College of Engineering, Pune (COEP), a historically significant establishment recognized as the third oldest engineering college in Asia, a testament to its enduring legacy in technical education.

Engineering Masterpieces and Pioneering Innovations

Sir MV's brilliance as a civil engineer is permanently etched in the annals of India's infrastructure development through his monumental projects. These stand as enduring symbols of his technical prowess, innovative spirit, and unwavering dedication to public welfare.

• The Krishna Raja Sagara (KRS) Dam: Located in the north-west suburb of Mysuru city, the construction of the KRS Dam remains one of Sir MV's most celebrated achievements. As its Chief Engineer, he pioneered the implementation of automated weir water floodgates, a groundbreaking design at the time that allowed for efficient control and storage of water without requiring external power. This colossal reservoir became the lifeblood for extensive agricultural lands, transforming irrigation in the region. Moreover, it supplied crucial drinking water to the burgeoning cities of Mysore and Bangalore and facilitated the establishment of Asia's first significant hydroelectric power station at Shivanasamudra, providing vital electricity for industrial growth and urban lighting.
• Laxmi Talav Dam: In addition to his grander projects, Sir MV also applied his expertise to the Laxmi Talav Dam near Kolhapur in south-west Maharashtra, contributing to essential water management and irrigation initiatives in that particular region.
• Hyderabad Flood Protection System: Following the devastating and catastrophic Musi River flood of 1908, Sir MV played a pivotal role in designing and implementing a comprehensive and robust flood protection system for the city of Hyderabad. His farsighted planning and innovative engineering solutions effectively mitigated future flood risks, safeguarding the lives and livelihoods of the city's inhabitants and preventing the recurrence of such large-scale calamities.
• The Block System of Irrigation: Beyond individual projects, Sir MV conceptualized and patented an ingenious "Block System" of irrigation. This method ensured highly efficient water usage for agricultural lands, optimizing resource allocation and significantly boosting agricultural productivity, demonstrating his commitment to sustainable development.

A Visionary Statesman and Transformative Reformer

During his tenure as the Diwan of Mysore, Sir MV demonstrated unparalleled foresight and administrative acumen, guiding the state towards remarkable progress. His period in office was characterized by an unrelenting focus on industrialization, educational reforms, and social upliftment, effectively laying the robust groundwork for a modern, self-reliant, and prosperous Mysore.

• Industrial Advancement: Recognizing the critical importance of industrial self-reliance for national progress, Sir MV enthusiastically championed the establishment of several key industries. He was instrumental in founding the Mysore Iron and Steel Works at Bhadravati (now famously known as Visvesvaraya Iron and Steel Limited), a pioneering industrial venture that became a cornerstone of India's early industrial development. Other significant initiatives under his leadership included the establishment of the Mysore Sandalwood Oil Factory and the Mysore Soap Factory, strategically leveraging local resources and promoting indigenous manufacturing capabilities.
• Educational Reforms: Sir MV firmly believed that a strong educational foundation was the bedrock of national progress and societal advancement. He played a pivotal role in the establishment of the University of Mysore in 1916, a landmark institution that was one of the earliest universities in India to be founded outside the direct control of the British administration. He also vigorously promoted technical and vocational education, emphasizing the development of practical skills to meet the demands of a rapidly burgeoning industrial sector, ensuring a skilled workforce for the future.
• Economic Development: To foster economic stability and accelerate growth, he established the State Bank of Mysore (which later became part of the State Bank of India) in 1913, providing essential financial infrastructure to support the state's burgeoning commercial and industrial activities.

Distinguished Honours and Enduring Legacy

Sir MV's profound and unparalleled contributions to public service and nation-building earned him the highest civilian accolades, acknowledging his extraordinary impact on India.

• Bharat Ratna: In 1955, the Government of India bestowed upon him the Bharat Ratna, the nation's highest civilian honour. This prestigious award recognized his monumental and multifaceted impact across various domains including engineering, public administration, and overall public life, solidifying his status as a national icon.
• Knight Commander of the British Indian Empire (KCIE): For his outstanding contributions to the public good and his exceptional service during the British Raj, King George V knighted him as a Knight Commander of the British Indian Empire (KCIE). This prestigious title acknowledged his profound influence and significant services to society.

His birthday, 15 September, is celebrated annually as Engineers' Day across India, Sri Lanka, and Tanzania. This widespread commemoration serves as a heartfelt tribute to his immense contributions to the field of engineering and his enduring legacy as a symbol of excellence, innovation, and unwavering dedication to national progress. Engineers' Day inspires countless engineers and aspiring professionals to emulate his profound commitment to nation-building through technical expertise and ethical leadership.

Sir MV's extraordinary life exemplified the transformative power of intellect, integrity, and relentless hard work in shaping a nation's destiny. His pioneering spirit, administrative foresight, and unwavering commitment to progress continue to inspire generations, firmly establishing him as a true architect of modern India.

Frequently Asked Questions about Sir M. Visvesvaraya

Who was Sir M. Visvesvaraya?

Sir Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya, commonly known as Sir MV, was an eminent Indian civil engineer, a visionary statesman, and served as the 19th Diwan of Mysore. He is revered for his pivotal role in India's industrialization and infrastructure development.

Why is Engineers' Day celebrated on September 15th?

Engineers' Day is celebrated annually on September 15th, Sir MV's birthday, in India, Sri Lanka, and Tanzania. This day honours his remarkable contributions to the field of engineering and his profound dedication to the nation's progress, serving as an enduring inspiration for engineers globally.

What were Sir MV's most significant engineering contributions?

Among his most notable engineering achievements are the design and construction of the Krishna Raja Sagara (KRS) Dam, which featured innovative automated sluice gates, and the development of the crucial flood protection system for the city of Hyderabad. He also patented the "Block System" of irrigation, promoting efficient water management.

What was Sir MV's role as Diwan of Mysore?

As the Diwan of Mysore from 1912 to 1919, Sir MV spearheaded comprehensive reforms in education, industry, and public administration. He was instrumental in establishing key institutions such as the University of Mysore, the Mysore Iron and Steel Works at Bhadravati, and the State Bank of Mysore, profoundly contributing to the state's modernization.

What prestigious honours did Sir M. Visvesvaraya receive?

Sir MV received India's highest civilian award, the Bharat Ratna, in 1955, in recognition of his extraordinary contributions. He was also knighted as a Knight Commander of the British Indian Empire (KCIE) by King George V for his immense public service and contributions to society.